LL Cool J

James Todd Smith, widely recognized by his stage name LL Cool J, was born on January 14, 1968. He emerged as a pioneering figure in hip-hop, achieving commercial success alongside iconic acts like Run-DMC. LL Cool J's career took off after signing with Def Jam Recordings in 1984, with his breakout single 'I Need a Beat' paving the way for his debut album, 'Radio', released in 1985.

Throughout his illustrious career, LL Cool J has released several critically acclaimed albums, including 'Bigger and Deffer' (1987), 'Walking with a Panther' (1989), and the Grammy-winning 'Mama Said Knock You Out' (1990). His musical journey continued with successful projects like 'Mr. Smith' (1995) and 'Phenomenon' (1997). After concluding his contract with Def Jam with the twelfth album 'Exit 13' in 2008, he re-signed with the label to release his fourteenth album, 'The FORCE', in 2024.

In addition to his music career, LL Cool J has made a significant mark in the film and television industry. He has starred in various films, including 'Toys', 'Halloween H20', and 'Deep Blue Sea'. From 2009 to 2023, he portrayed NCIS Special Agent Sam Hanna in the CBS series 'NCIS: Los Angeles', and he reprised this role in 'NCIS: Hawaiʻi' (2023–2024) and 'NCIS' (2025). He also hosted the popular show 'Lip Sync Battle' on Paramount Network.

LL Cool J's contributions to music have earned him numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards and a spot on VH1's '100 Greatest Artists Of All Time' list in 2010. In 2017, he became the first rapper to receive the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors, and in 2021, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the Musical Excellence category.