Back to 80s - LL Cool J

Boasting one of the longest and most successful careers in the history of hip-hop, LL has been cranking out the hits since 1984. The Queens native first made waves with the release of "I Need A Beat," the first release ever on Russell Simmons' powerful Def Jam label. One of Rap's original bona fide superstars, Ladies Love Cool James popularized Kangols and fat rope chains, headlined mega-tours, and released a slew of classic hits, including "Rock The Bells" and "Mama Said Knock You Out." He was also amongst the first hip-hop artists to successfully crossover to a Pop audience, with help from his slow jam hit "I Need Love." In addition to his multi-platinum music career, he also led the charge for rappers as actors, appearing in films, commercials, and his own TV show. Still a prominent figure in an industry notorious for fleeting stardom, he keeps putting in work, further cementing this pioneer and trendsetter's place in the history books.