Let’s get into some G.O.A.T. talk for a brief moment. Now, who’s the greatest of all time is up for another debate. However, I’d like to talk about LL Cool J, the self-proclaimed G.O.A.T. — the person that coined the phrase — and his album catalog.
LL released his debut album, Radio, in 1985. It was during the B-Boy era — and it definitely provided it’s share of B-Boy songs such as “I Can’t Live Without My Radio” and “Rock the Bells.”
[Tune In To HipHop-Album-Debate, “The Podcast” Every Tuesday and Friday!]
The Queens-native would keep the momentum going with his sophomore album, Bigger and Deffer. We were still in the B-Boy era, so songs such as “I’m Bad” and “Go Cut Creator Go” fit the mold. However, we saw the Ladies Love Cool James aspect in “I Need Love.”
LL was able to stay under Rap’s radar with albums such as Walking With A Panther, Mama Said Knock You Out, and 14 Shots to the Dome, despite Hip Hop taking a shift by the mid-90s. However, it was inevitable that he reinvented himself with Mr Smith, his 1995 release. It featured hits, “Hey Lover,” featuring Boyz II Men and “Doin It.”
James Todd did it again in the 21st century with 10, which featured the hit “Luv U Better.”
Is LL the G.O.A.T.? As I stated earlier, that’s for another debate. But I will say this: no one can refute it. His rap career has stood the test of time, spanning over five decades. I find that quite impressive, considering rappers in this new age do good to last five years.
Also, don’t forget to check out HHAD Activity Books.
Which was LL Cool J’s Best Album?
[Polls Are Closed!]
Mr. Smith – 50%
Bigger and Deffer – 17%
10 – 17%
Radio – 8%
Mama Said Knock You Out – 8%
Exit 13 – 0%
Todd Smith – 0%
The DEFinition – 0%
G.O.A.T. – 0%
Phenomenon – 0%
14 Shots to the Dome – 0%
Walking with a Panther – 0%
Authentic – 0%