LL Cool J releases his 12th Def Jam album, Todd Smith

Hip-hop is notorious for short-lived careers, but LL Cool J is the inevitable exception that proves the rule. The rapper became the first Def Jam artist to release a single some 20 years ago. His focus on professional and spiritual growth has resulted in a slew of hit records, two Grammy Awards and noteworthy roles on TV and in film. That still does not take into account his numerous humanitarian efforts, his role as a product pitchman or the recent launch of his Todd Smith clothing line during New York's Fashion Week. Fresh off the success of his latest film with Queen Latifah, Last Holiday, LL Cool J releases his 12th Def Jam album, Todd Smith, which comes from the rapper's given name, James Todd Smith (his stage name is an acronym for "Ladies Love Cool James"). 21 years after his exhilarating debut album, Radio, made young LL Cool J a household brand, this chief rockin’ rapper is still trying to prove that he’s better than you. Like that middle-aged uncle at the family reunion who insists on shooting hoops, and then – much to your surprise – proceeds to spank that ass, LL Cool J still has a few tricks up his sleeve. Forget that he’s nearing 40 – he still has enough youthful arrogance to step behind the microphone and morph into a savage street talker. Indeed, the proof can be found in the cross-generational collaborations.

Another dimension of LL Cool J’s versatility

The album, mostly recorded in Miami and New York features several tracks from Timabaland, Pharell, Scott Storch and Trackmasters, as well as 12 stars, including; Mary J. Blige, Mary Mary, 112, Ginuwine, and Teairra Mari. On It’s LL and Santana, LL Cool J joins Dipset standout Juelz Santana for a swaggering, hard-core, one-two alliance that bridges the gap between hip hop’s yesteryear and the new era. Even more appealing is the aggressive braggadocio of the Freeway-assisted joint What You Want. The hyperelectro-funk club anthem Control Myself, produced by Jermaine Dupri and featuring the multi-platinum and multi-talented superstar, Jennifer Lopez, shows yet another dimension of LL Cool J’s versatility. Meanwhile, the saccharine, Trackmasters–produced wedding song Down the Aisle sticks to the safer side of the ladies-first template. In addition, there are moments on Todd Smith that express a rare pathos, simultaneously strange and raw. Creating a perfect blend of rugged rap and retro soul, LL Cool J and Lyfe Jennings construct Freeze, a stellar track detailing the life of a mack. Reminiscent of the Time’s R&B classic Gigolos Get Lonely Too, Uncle L strips off the vanity and boasting to reveal his I Need Love–style vulnerability over liquid grooves and sparse production.

LL Cool J encompasses the qualities of a true star

In 2006, LL Cool J is making sure that everyone knows Todd Smith. This release continues to define him as a breakthrough artist. LL is more than a hip-hop musician. He is more than an actor. LL Cool J is a modern myth - a legend and an icon in his own day. And even an admitted LL Cool J -hater could not imagine the hip-hop universe without him. He encompasses the qualities of a true star, while never sacrificing his credibility in any field that he has entered. Whether it is music, Hollywood, television, politics or publishing, LL Cool J has opened his own doors and created opportunities for countless others. With more than 20 years of rap seniority under his belt, the artist says the difficulty comes in innovating and reinventing each time around. On Todd SmithLL Cool J delivers his verses with a skill and charisma that shows his respect for the craft. All in all, though many rap fans may believe LL Cool J hasn’t been relevant since he stung like a bee on his 1990 masterpiece, Mama Said Knock You Out, this offering proves the Greatest Of All Time is still swinging.

10.04.2006