LL Cool J

 James Todd Smith, known by his stage name LL Cool J (short for Ladies Love Cool James), was born on January 14, 1968, in Bay Shore, New York. His parents were Ondrea Griffith and James Louis Smith Jr. Life for Smith was challenging from an early age; his father shot his mother and grandfather when Smith was just four years old. Despite these hardships, Smith and his mother moved to St. Albans, Queens, where he was raised by his grandparents.

Smith found solace in music, particularly influenced by the hip-hop group The Treacherous Three. By the age of 16, he was creating demo tapes in his grandparents' home, supported by his grandfather, a jazz saxophonist, who provided him with musical equipment. Smith's father also played a role in his music career, offering guidance and support. With determination and talent, Smith pursued a career in music, sending his demos to various record labels in New York City.

In 1984, Smith signed with Def Jam Recordings and released his first official record, the single "I Need a Beat." This marked the beginning of his successful music career, as he became one of the earliest rappers to achieve mainstream success. His debut album, "Radio" (1985), received critical acclaim and commercial success, selling over a million copies and featuring hit singles like "I Can't Live Without My Radio" and "Rock the Bells."

Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, LL Cool J continued to release successful albums, including "Bigger and Deffer" (1987), "Mama Said Knock You Out" (1990), and "Mr. Smith" (1995). His versatility as an artist was evident in his ability to produce both hip-hop and R&B hits, such as "I Need Love" and "Hey Lover."

In addition to his music career, LL Cool J ventured into acting, appearing in numerous films and television shows, including "Halloween H20," "In Too Deep," and "NCIS: Los Angeles." He also hosted the popular television show "Lip Sync Battle."

LL Cool J's contributions to music and entertainment have been widely recognized. He is a two-time Grammy Award winner and has been honored with accolades such as being named one of VH1's "100 Greatest Artists of All Time" and receiving the Kennedy Center Honors in 2017. In 2021, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for Musical Excellence.

Offstage, LL Cool J is a devoted family man, married to Simone Johnson since 1995, with whom he has four children. He has also been involved in political advocacy, supporting causes and candidates that align with his values, including his support for President Barack Obama. Throughout his career, LL Cool J has remained an influential figure in both music and popular culture, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the pioneers of hip-hop.