Profile
Famous as :
Hip hop singer, actorBirth Name :
James Todd SmithBirth Date :
January 14, 1968Birth Place :
St. Albans, Queens, USASpouse :
Simone Johnson (since 7-Aug-95)Claim to fame :
Single "I Can't Live Without My Radio" from album "Radio" (1985)
Black Eyed Peas to Perform at 2010 Grammy Nominations Concert
November 11, 2009 03:11:18Multiple Grammy award-winning act Black Eyed Peas are confirmed to make a live performance on December 2 when "The Grammy Nominations Concert Live!! - Countdown to Music's Biggest Night" is held. Hosting the gig, meanwhile, will be LL Cool J who has tweeted his excitement on Twitter.
Rihanna, who won Best Rap/Sung Collaboration Grammy in 2007, reportedly is also appointed to attend the event. Other musical guests who will also be past Grammy winners and / or nominees are yet to be announced. The concert will be aired live from Club Nokia in Los Angeles by CBS at 8 P.M. as a one-hour TV special.
'NCIS: Los Angeles' Gets Theme Song From LL Cool J
September 12, 2009 01:09:44Starring as one of the leads on "NCIS: Los Angeles" is not enough for LL Cool J that he has to write a song for it. The rapper turned movie star has crafted a new song titled "NCIS: No Crew Is Superior", which is inspired by his role as Special Agent Sam Hanna in the series, together with Grammy-winning producer C. "Tricky" Stewart.
"This song is the musical interpretation of what I felt after meeting with NCIS agents, experienced Marines and Navy Seals," said LL in a press release. "It represents the collective energy in the room. I was so inspired I wrote the song on set."
LL Cool J Pays Homage to Michael Jackson in 'Billie Jean Dream'
August 11, 2009 02:08:17Rapper LL Cool J has a new song called "Billie Jean Dream" which is a remix version to Michael Jackson's 1983 hit single "Billie Jean". He re-records the song to show his respect to the King of Pop who has become one of his major influences.
"After hearing the tragic news of Michael Jackson's death, the lyrics for the 'Billie Jean' remix came to me in a dream," LL Cool J told Billboard. "Michael was one of my childhood idols and has always been a great inspiration to me."
CBS' Official Fall 2009 Schedule Listed
May 21, 2009 10:05:46In a formal presentation held on Wednesday, May 20, CBS announced its official Fall 2009 schedule. Among the highlighted ones are the pick-up of "Medium" which has been snubbed by NBC and the go-ahead on "NCIS: Naval Criminal Investigative Service" spin-off which is titled "NCIS: Los Angeles".
CBS Studios which is behind "Medium" previously criticized NBC for canceling the show starring Patricia Arquette. "NBC's cancellation of 'Medium' is inexplicable to us," the statement said. "The ratings don't lie: 'Medium' outperforms many of NBC's renewed shows ... We believe the show has a significant future and await developments." It will be put on Fridays, sandwiched by "Ghost Whisperer" and "Numb3rs".
LL Cool J Confirmed for 'NCIS' Spin-Off
February 25, 2009 02:02:42The status of LL Cool J in the spin-off to "NCIS: Naval Criminal Investigative Service" has been upgraded. If previously he was in talks to nab the role of Sam Hannah, it has now been confirmed that he has secured the part.
Hannah is described as tough but charming former U.S. Navy Seal and is "an expert on the Middle East." The pilot to the spin-off will air as one half of a two-part episode of "NCIS" later this season. Behind the new series which is yet to have a title is "NCIS" scribe Shane Brennan.
Chris O'Donnell and LL Cool J Lined Up for 'NCIS' Spin-Off
February 05, 2009 04:02:06Two major movie stars are heading to television for a spin-off to "NCIS: Naval Criminal Investigative Service". "Batman and Robin" star Chris O'Donnell and "Mindhunters" star slash rapper LL Cool J are reportedly in talks to be the main cast of the not-yet-titled spin-off.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, O'Donnell will play an average guy named Callen who is born to do undercover work, "taking on different identities". LL Cool J meanwhile, is considered for the role of Sam Hannah who is a tough but charming former U.S. Navy Seal.
LL Cool J Quits Janet Jackson's 'Rock Witchu' Tour
October 28, 2008 12:10:08LL Cool J will no longer support Janet Jackson's "Rock Witchu" roadshow, confirmed his spokesperson to The Associated Press. Unnamed scheduling conflicts are revealed as the trigger of LL Cool J's pull-off.
No statement has been made by Jackson's camp regarding the news. Meanwhile, for her next stops for "Rock Witchu", the "Feedback" singer still has two more dates left, on October 28 at The Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, Michigan and on November 1 at Madison Square Garden in New York. She is also expected to announce more dates for her postponed gigs due to a rare form of migraine.
Video Premiere: LL Cool J's 'Mr. President' Feat. Wyclef Jean
October 20, 2008 03:10:43A music video to support LL Cool J's new song "Mr. President" has been debuted. Having Wyclef Jean, who also provides backing vocals for LL Cool J on the song, as a cameo, the music video gives a look at America's recent political issues and reveals questions that the rapper wants to ask to the current and forthcoming presidents.
Along with a scene where a mother cries over her son's death on a war, LL Cool J raps, "Mr. President, are you aware/our flesh and blood is dying over there/when the coffins come back." The rapper also questions the head of the country at the verses saying, "Do you care/when only the poor kids die, is it fair/Don't get me wrong I respect the flag/but it hurts to see a kid in a body bag/he fought for his country with all he had/now we have a family without a dad ..."
LL Cool J Removes 50 Cent From 'Exit 13'
September 09, 2008 02:09:14Among his collaborators, including big names The-Dream, Fat Joe, and Richie Sambora, Rap mogul LL Cool J decides to scrap off 50 Cent from his long list. "I'm not releasing the album he and I were working on. I took a few songs for (new album) 'Exit 13' and scrapped the rest," he says.
When asked for confirmation, the rapper reveals his anxiety about fans' response concerning their first-ever collaboration. "That's due to the fact that I don't think people want to hear me rhyming like 50," he explains as saying.
Janet Jackson's 'Rock Witchu Tour' Opened by LL Cool J
September 01, 2008 11:09:19Jermaine Dupri has helped Janet Jackson's fans to have more details on her upcoming "Rock Witchu" tour again. The producer who is also Janet's long-time lover went behind the scene of her concert rehearsal, digging out the opening act of the tour straight from Janet's mouth plus giving a look into the costumes.
In the video that was posted on his official YouTube account, Dupri who was denied a backstage pass initially, took the audience to the dressing room where Janet was standing in front of the mirror. Janet, seemingly annoyed by the presence of the camera, reluctantly spilled that rapper LL Cool J will open the North American leg of her tour.
LL Cool J on 2008 MTV VMAs Commercial Ad, the Video
August 27, 2008 09:08:57Following the first promotional tape which features troubled pop singer Britney Spears and host of this year's MTV Video Music Awards, Russell Brand, MTV have, once again, made another commercial ad. This time, the video has LL Cool J as a featured guest sitting next to the U.K. comedian.
The MTV's annual show will give music lovers an access to witness the winners from all categories on Sunday, September 7. Artists who are confirmed to perform at Hollywood Paramount Studio include multi-platinum songstress Rihanna, Pink, rapper T.I., and Tennessean band Paramore.
Video Premiere: LL Cool J's 'Baby' Ft. The-Dream
July 12, 2008 09:07:11The new music video from hip-hop artist LL Cool J for his latest single "Baby" has been premiered on FNMTV on Friday, July 11. The new clip was directed by Benny Boom and also features the appearance of The-Dream.
The clip starts with LL and Dream singing and partying at a night club accompanied by lots of girls. The "I Need Love" singer then got attracted to one girl and took her out on a ride on his car where they were chased by a police because of dangerous driving.
Video Premiere: LL Cool J's 'Rockin' With The G.O.A.T'
June 21, 2008 09:06:20The new music video from LL Cool J for his new single titled "Rockin' With The G.O.A.T" has just been premiered. The new visual which is being directed by TAJ sees LL playing a role as a boxer.
The clip starts with the rapper entering a gym and starting to do some workouts which also can be seen in most of the scenes. On the end of the music video, LL posts a note written by a famous African American poet Paul Laurence Dunbar that said, "For the man who fails is the man who failed to cry."
LL Cool J to Release His First Ever Mixtape
June 03, 2008 02:06:10Besides releasing his new LP "Exit 13", LL Cool J will treat his fans with another project this year, which is his first ever mixtape called "The Return of the G.O.A.T." The hip-hop artist confirmed that news to the press stating that the mixtape, which he works with DJ Kay Slay, is finished and ready to be released.
The rapper revealed the details about the tape's working process to MTV saying, "Me and Slay was just talking: 'Let's do a mixtape'. Let's knock it out. Let's hit them something hard, something hot, Let's do something for the fellas so they don't feel I'mma oil my chest up, roll around in some feathers with my toenails painted." Moreover, the rapper also mentioned that his upcoming mixtape will feature him freestyling some new beats, exclusive songs, and another rapper's version of his classic songs.
LL Cool J Joins Forces with Sears to Launch Kids Clothing
May 28, 2008 02:05:10LL Cool J is invading the world of fashion design. The hip hop artist is teaming up with U.S. chain store Sears to launch a clothing line for young boys and girls.
The line, which is about to be called LL Cool J for Sears, will feature casual sportswear ranging from $22-$50 in price, and will be made available in 450 of Sears' 900 stores in September. The clothes will feature personal elements of the hip hop artist, from a tattoo embroidered on a jacket, to lyrics from his songs on a t-shirt.
LL Cool J's 'I Cry' Leaked On-Line
May 22, 2008 02:05:52Still preparing the release of his new album "Exit 13", a new song from LL Cool J from the upcoming set has leaked on-line earlier this week. The song is titled "I Cry" and will be one of the songs on the rapper's upcoming LP.
On the song, the singer is collaborating with another rapper Lil' Mo, who has previously worked with Ja Rule. Unfortunately, there is still no confirmation from LL Cool J whether the new song will be the first single from the upcoming set.
LL Cool J Signed an 'Unbelievable' 15-Year -Old to His Label
March 24, 2008 09:03:44LL Cool J has spotted diamond in the rough inside a 15-year-old called Nicolette. The NYC rapper believes that she has what it takes to be a superstar and therefore is signing her to his Platinum Harvest label. Consequently, Nicolette will be the first signed artist under the new label.
"I would put her on a record with anybody and see what they think as far as competition," Cool gushed. "She's unbelievable. She's a star, not just somebody spitting bars in my face... She can rap... She's the truth." Cool once introduced Foxy Brown who was featured on his "I Shot Ya" hit.
CBS Expected to Pick Up LL Cool J's Show "The Man"
August 18, 2007 01:08:00
CBS, one of the largest radio and television networks in the United States, is close to inking a deal to add the new LL Cool J's show "The Man" to its mid-season schedule. The network reportedly plans to put the show in a six episode mid-season order.
"The Man," from CBS Paramount Network TV, was created by "CSI" mogul Anthony Zuiker. It features LL Cool J as an undercover cop who takes care of an orphan boy on the mean streets of Los Angeles.
LL Cool J Proceeds with Sumfest
June 13, 2007 04:06:17
After announcing that he won't do any summer gig, LL Cool J decided to do at least one responsibility. The rapper will go on with Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest on July 20.
A representative from LL Cool J has confirmed with Allhiphop.com that he will appear on the show to promote his latest effort "Exit 13". The confirmation was soon followed with other dates during this summer which they said will also go on.
LL Cool J Skips Sumfest for Family
June 11, 2007 12:06:44
With the reason of an unspecified family problem, LL Cool J will pass the 15th Annual Red Stripe Reggae Sumfest. Not only missing the date, it was reported that the rapper will scrap off any summer dates he is scheduled to perform.
Organizers of Sumfest announced last week that LL Cool J has cancelled his July 20 gig through a rep. Published on Jamaican Observer was: "We have just been advised by LL Cool J's management that due to a family problem, LL Cool J has been forced to cancel all his summer dates and hence he will not be performing at Sumfest."
Beyonce Knowles in Talks to Play in a New Broadway Revival of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof"
May 22, 2007 01:05:32
Beyonce Knowles is about to invade Broadway so you better get ready for that. The R&B singer reportedly is in talks to play Maggie the Cat in a new Broadway revival of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof."
The revival, to be directed by Debbie Allen, was slated to open later this year but was pushed back to accommodate Beyonce's schedule as producers want a bigger name than Broadway star Audra McDonald who is said to have agreed to play Maggie.
LL Cool J Is in Talks to Play in Broadway Play
April 26, 2007 03:04:12
Besides his singing career, LL Cool J is adding more into his acting resume. The hip hop star is in talks to play the lead role in a stage revival of Tennessee Williams' 1955 classic "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof."
Per New York Post it is reported that LL is willing to secure the leading role of Brick, an alcoholic ex-football player whose father is dying of cancer, which was played by Paul Newman in the original film.
Rapper LL Cool J in Negotiations to Endorse "Chapstick"
March 07, 2007 11:03:57
LL Cool J is expanding his career into the world of advertisement. The rapper is in talks to represent popular lip balm brand, Chapstick.
Per Brand Week magazine, it is claimed that the negotiations are part of a brand extension strategy for artists LL Cool J and 50 Cent, which is being launched by Violator Artist Management. It is said in the publication both LL and 50 Cent are looking forward to expand their celebrity status through new endorsement deals.
Rapper LL Cool J Tapped to Host the 38th NAACP Image Awards
February 08, 2007 09:02:22
Rapper LL Cool J will host the first ever live 38th NAACP Image Awards, set to air live on Friday, March 2 (8:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) on FOX, organizers announced Monday Feb 5th.
"We are pleased and honored to have LL Cool J host our first live telecast," said Vicangelo Bulluck, executive producer of the telecast. "His humor, intelligence and incredible talent will make the awards an exciting evening to remember."
LL Cool J Tapped to Join "The Man"
September 19, 2006 03:09:17
LL Cool J is invading the small screen as he's joined forces with the creator of the hugely successful "CSI" franchise to develop a CBS drama titled "The Man".
On production duty, the veteran rapper partnered with CSI creator/writer Anthony Zuiker besides also being booked to star in as a cop with a busy domestic life.
Additional Performers for the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards
August 25, 2006 02:08:17
Latin music star Shakira and American rock band OK Go have been added to the star-studded lineup slated to perform at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards, which will air live from New York's Radio City Music Hall on Thursday, August 31st at 8:00pm ET/PT.
In the meantime, Axl Rose, Lindsay Lohan, Kanye West, Paris Hilton, P. Diddy, LL Cool J, Snoop Dogg, The Pussycat Dolls and 50 Cent, have all been added to the presenters list of the award event. In addition, Borat and Sarah Silverman will also make special guest appearances.
ASCAP Honors LL Cool J & Bill Withers
June 05, 2006 09:06:38
The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers announced Friday June 2nd, 2006 that it would honor LL Cool J and Bill Withers for their musical contributions.
As for LL Cool J, the rapper is set to receive the Golden Note award, while the R&B crooner Withers will be presented with the Rhythm & Soul Heritage award.
The 10th Best Songs on the Billboard Hot 100
April 28, 2006 02:04:24
While reggae star Sean Paul's "Temperature" and rapper T.I.'s "What You Know" stay firm at No. 2 and 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart for the week ended Thursday April 27th, 2006, Daniel Powter still leads the run, remaining on the top position with his single "Bad Day", marking his fifth week on the No. 1 spot.
Entering the Top 10 on the chart is Chamillionaire's "Ridin"' which bounces 8 places to be at the 4th position. Elsewhere, Natasha Bedingfield's "Unwritten" clings at No. 5, one place ahead of LL Cool J's "Control Myself" at No. 6.
Top 10 Songs on the Hot 100
April 21, 2006 12:04:51
While there are ups and downs on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart, Daniel Powter stands firm, remaining still on his top position on the chart. The Canadian singer/songwriter's "Bad Day" again leads the singles chart by Thursday April 20th, 2006 making it the 4th straight week for the star to do so.
Held at No. 2 and No. 3 respectively are Sean Paul's "Temperature" and rapper T.I.'s "What You Know". Meanwhile, hip-hop artist LL Cool J's "Control Myself" reenters the chart at No. 4, ahead of Natasha Bedingfield's "Unwritten" which ups two places to No. 5.
The Billboard 200 Top 10 Challengers
April 20, 2006 10:04:16
Having their album "Me and My Gang" sold nearly 345,000 copies in the week ended April 16, country trio Rascal Flatts hold strong their No. 1 position on the Billboard 200, to be on top of the pop album chart for a second week Wednesday April 19th, 2006. After such tough challenge, Keith Urban's "White Trash With Money" finally only secures the 2nd place on the chart with about 330,000 units.
At No. 3 is "Now That's What I Call Music! 21" by various artists which is sold 293,000 copies, followed by the "High School Musical" soundtrack which holds at No. 4 for a second week with 256,000. Rapper T.I.'s "King", in the meantime, slips two to No. 5 with 136,000, ahead of LL Cool J's "Todd Smith" at No. 6, sold 116,000 copies and Tim McGraw's "Greatest Hits Vol. 2 -- Reflected" at No. 7.
LL Cool J to Release "Todd Smith"
February 15, 2006 03:02:51As a follow up to his 2004 album "The Definition," LL Cool J will have his next set "Todd Smith" released on March 21 later this year.
The new album among others consist tracks like "It's LL and Santana" featuring Juelz Santana, "Control Myself" featuring Jennifer Lopez and Jermaine Dupri, and "Favorite Flavor" featuring Mary J. Blige.
Hip Hoper LL Cool J Works on New Album
October 31, 2005 09:10:14Hip Hoper LL Cool J gets more and more busy nowadays. The rapper is currently at work on a new album, which is expected to be released sometime in 2006. The Def Jam set is the follow-up to his 2004's "The DEFinition," which debuted at No. 4 on The Billboard 200 and has sold 743,000 copies in the United States. The as yet titled album will feature guest appearances from Mary J. Blige, 112 and Teairra Mari.
In addition to working on the album, LL Cool J also has signed a nine-picture deal with Lions Gate Film to produce movies, and also has the option of acting in the projects. He will next be seen in "Last Holiday" alongside Queen Latifah, and also appears in "Edison," which stars Justin Timberlake and Morgan Freeman.
Cool Feted at VH1 Show
June 30, 2005 11:06:01The second annual VH1 Hip Hop Honors will be held on September 22 at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York and will be aired 26 within the month on VH1. One lucky star to be feted in the event is LL Cool J, while other honored celebrities among others include Notorious B.I.G., Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five, Ice-T, Salt-N-Pepa, and the 1991 film "Boyz n the Hood."
