LL Cool J Net Worth 2024: Updated Wealth Of The Rap Legend

LL Cool J, born James Todd Smith, is a legendary American rapper, actor, and entrepreneur whose career has spanned over three decades. But what is the net worth of the Hip Hop legend? We’ll be looking at what exactly has gone into the wealth of the star throughout this article!

LL Cool J Net Worth

With an estimated net worth of $120 million according to Celebrity Net Worth in 2024, the hip-hop icon has proved his staying power in the entertainment industry.

The Rise of LL Cool J’s Music Career

Young LL Cool J
(Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

Born in 1968 in Bay Shore, New York, LL Cool J began his music career at the young age of 16. His debut album, Radio, was released in 1985 and became an instant success. The album went platinum, establishing LL Cool J as a force to be reckoned with in the rap world. Since then, he has released 13 studio albums, with hits like “Mama Said Knock You Out,” “I’m Bad,” and “Hey Lover.”

The talented rapper’s music career has not only earned him millions of dollars but also numerous accolades. This includes two Grammy Awards, four NAACP Image Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Acting Success And LL Cool J Net Worth

LL on stage
(Photo by Lester Cohen/WireImage)

LL Cool J has seamlessly transitioned from music to acting, with his first major role in the 1991 film The Hard Way. Since then, he has appeared in numerous films and television shows, such as In the House, Deep Blue Sea, Any Given Sunday, and S.W.A.T.

However, his most notable acting role has been as Special Agent Sam Hanna on the popular television series NCIS: Los Angeles. The show, which began airing in 2009, has significantly contributed to LL Cool J’s net worth.

LL Cool J’s Entrepreneurial Ventures

LL Cool J presenting award
(Photo by Kevin Winter/WireImage)

In addition to his music and acting careers, LL Cool J has been involved in various entrepreneurial ventures that have helped grow his wealth. In the 1990s, he started his own music label, P.O.G. (Power of God) Recordings. While the label is now defunct, it was a testament to his business acumen and desire to expand his brand.

J also ventured into fashion with the launch of his clothing line, “Todd Smith,” in 2006. The line featured urban streetwear, including t-shirts, jeans, and hoodies. Though it didn’t achieve massive success, it provided the rapper with valuable business experience.

Endorsements and Partnerships

LL Cool J on red carpet
(Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

LL Cool J’s fame and success have led to numerous endorsement deals and partnerships over the years. He has worked with brands like Coca-Cola, Gap, and FUBU, helping to boost his net worth further. These endorsements not only expanded his brand visibility but also added to his impressive net worth.

LL Cool J: Philanthropy and Giving Back

LL Cool J supporting breast cancer research.
(Photo credit should read ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

J has always been passionate about giving back to the community. He has been involved in several charitable organizations and initiatives, such as his Jump & Ball Tournament, which provides free basketball camps to underprivileged youth. The rapper also supports organizations like the American Red Cross, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and Keep a Child Alive, further establishing his dedication to making a difference.

Conclusion/TLDR

LL Cool J’s net worth of $120 million in 2024 is a testament to his long-lasting career and impressive achievements in music, acting, and business. The legendary rapper continues to make his mark on the entertainment industry while remaining committed to giving back to the community.

The post LL Cool J Net Worth 2024: Updated Wealth Of The Rap Legend appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Hilarious Studio Moment: Big Hit Discovers The Alchemist Is White

In a recent social media revelation, a video surfaced capturing the priceless moment when Big Hit realized that The Alchemist is not, in fact, a black person. The amusing incident, caught on tape in a studio, has become a viral sensation as it showcases the genuine surprise and laughter among those present. The video, shared on social media, unveils the candid moment when rapper Big Hit, was under the impression that The Alchemist was a light-skinned black person. Furthermore, the humorous recording features a voice-over from one of the individuals in the studio who amusingly narrates the mix-up.

“The homie thought The Alchemist was just a light-skinned black person,” the voice-over revealed, setting the stage for the comedic revelation. “He thought The Alchemist was albino or something,” the voice continued, capturing the genuine surprise and amusement in the studio. The Alchemist, a highly respected and influential figure in the hip-hop community, is a renowned record producer and rapper. The revelation about the misconception adds a lighthearted twist to the narrative, showcasing that even industry insiders can have unexpected moments of realization.

Read More: Big Hit Drops His Debut Album With Helps Of His Son Hit-Boy

Big Hit Realizes The Alchemist Is Not Black

Moreover, the video not only provides a good laugh but also highlights the diverse and sometimes surprising nature of the music industry. It serves as a reminder that assumptions, even about well-known figures, can be challenged and corrected in the most unexpected and amusing ways. Big Hit and The Alchemist proved to be just one recent example. As the clip circulates on social media, fans and industry enthusiasts are sharing in the laughter, appreciating the authenticity of the moment. The lighthearted nature of the incident reflects the camaraderie and humor often found within the confines of music studios, where unexpected discoveries and revelations become the stuff of legend.

However, in the end, the video serves as a testament to the universal truth that laughter is indeed the best medicine, even in the world of music where serious beats and lyrics often dominate. In addition, it’s a moment that adds a touch of humor to the industry’s tapestry, bringing a smile to the faces of those who stumble upon this unexpected revelation about The Alchemist.

Read More: The Alchemist Net Worth 2023: What Is The Producer Worth?

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Dee-1 Doesn’t Consider N.W.A. “Legends,” Cites “Glorification Of Violence,” “Disrespect Of Women”

Dee-1 says that N.W.A. and any other artists who have “glorified trap music” should not be considered legends. The Christian rapper explained his reasoning during an interview with The Art of Dialogue. He had been discussing Special Ed’s previous comments on Drink Champs, in which the rapper accused N.W.A of ushering in the “age of destruction.”

“What do we do with that?” he asked. “Once we acknowledge what you have contributed to the genre, your whole career, and if we acknowledge that you’ve contributed a bunch of negativity, a bunch of violence, a bunch of disrespect of women, what do we do? Do we call you a legend or is it like, ‘Wait, we don’t need to call you no legend.’ I think that calling people legends in Hip-Hop is also a force of what helps to perpetuate negativity and that’s a trick of the enemy. That’s the devil’s work at his finest.”

Read More: Joe Budden Calls Dee-1 “Clout-Chasing,” Christian Rapper Threatens To Unleash Diss Track

Dee-1 Performs At The Essence Festival Of Culture

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JULY 02: Dee-1 performs onstage during the 2023 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 02, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for ESSENCE)

He continued: “We’re going to make it to where y’all start to call people legends and immortalize people inside of Hip-Hop, and the main thing they’ve contributed is the glorification of violence, the disrespect of women, the glorification of drug dealing and drug use. Like that’s crazy. We need to take the legend status off of a lot of the people who we call legends in Hip-Hop and that’s going to hurt their ego, but that’s going to help our community.” From there, Dee went on to suggest that “any rapper who has glorified drug dealing and drug use” can’t be considered a legend.

Dee-1 Discusses N.W.A.’s Legacy

He concluded: “So all of the rappers who have glorified trap music should not be considered legends. I’m going to say it again. All the rappers who have glorified trap music should not be considered legends. That’s just a fact.” Controversial opinions like this have caused Joe Budden and others to label Dee a “clout chaser.” Be on the lookout for further updates on Dee-1 on HotNewHipHop.

Read More: Dee-1 Scraps Joe Budden Diss Track After Realizing “Purpose” Of Their Beef

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T-Pain Accepts Legend Award At 2023 Soul Train Awards & Performs Medley Of Biggest Hits

T-Pain took home the Legend Award at 2023 Soul Train Awards on Sunday night in Beverly Hills, California. David Banner, the singer’s longtime friend and personal “life coach,” presented him with the award, recognizing his decades of dominance in the industry.

On stage, Pain joked that he feels it’s still “a little early” to receive the Legend Award. “It’s a lil weird,” he said. “I feel like I got two, three more songs we can probably do.” Later in the speech, he spoke about his wife, Amber Najm. “The kind of person I was, the kind of person I’ve become, and to just be there as the same wife and the same woman through the entire thing and be one of the strongest people I know. Dealing with the internet, dealing with my negatives and my flaws and staying with me. Just dealing with T-Pain and Faheem is a feat I have yet to figure out my damn self, so thank you, baby.”

Read More: SZA Dominates 2023 Soul Train Awards: Full List Of Winners

T-Pain Accepts Legend Award

BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 19: In this image released on November 26, T-Pain accepts the Legend Award onstage at Soul Train Awards 2023 on November 19, 2023 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images for BET)

He concluded with a message for the younger generation: “I don’t want you to chase this. I don’t want you to base your life on how many people in the crowd can tell you that you can have this. I want you to know that you already got this. You already have this in your mind. I want y’all to be who y’all are unapologetically, I want y’all to be who you’ve always wanted to be. I want y’all to not care about what anybody thinks about that person. If you like it, I love it and I want some mo’ of it.”

T-Pain Performs His Biggest Songs

To close out the evening, T-Pain performed a medley of the biggest hits from his career including “Got Money,” “Cyclone,” “Good Life,” “Bartender,” “U and Dat,” “Up Down,” “Chopped & Screwed,” “I’m N Luv (Wit a Stripper),” “Kiss Kiss,” “Shawty,” “I Like Dat,” and “Buy U a Drank,” among others. Check out the full 10-minute performance above.

Read More: Soul Train Awards: Keke Palmer Hosting Tonight, Reminds Us She’s The Prize In Golden Goddess Dress

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TI Says Eminem, Andre 3000, & Nipsey Hussle All Share This One Trait

TI says that legends like Eminem, Andre 3000, and Nipsey Hussle all share one common trait. He discussed what he feels that is during an interview with B. High ATL while explaining how his collaboration with the Outkast rapper came together.

“I waited, and paid,” he began. “Andre 3000, Eminem, [and] Nipsey Hussle is the longest verses that you will ever, ever, ever […] but when they finish, they’re going to come together masterfully.”

Read More: André 3000’s “Life Of The Party” Verse Receives Praise From Scarface, T.I., & More

TI & Andre 3000 Backstage In Atlanta

T.I.-Andre-3000.jpg” alt=”” class=”wp-image-730261″ srcset=”https://wp.hnhh.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/T.I.-Andre-3000.jpg 1024w, https://wp.hnhh.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/T.I.-Andre-3000-300×204.jpg 300w, https://wp.hnhh.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/T.I.-Andre-3000-768×521.jpg 768w” sizes=”(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px” />
ATLANTA – MAY 24: Rapper T.I. and Andre 3000 of OutKast backstage at the Philips Arena on May 24, 2009 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Rick Diamond/Getty Images)

In the comments section of the interview, some fans took issue with TI putting Nipsey Hussle in the same group as Eminem and Andre 3000. Others adamantly came to the late rapper’s defense. One argued: “Nip a [goat emoji] if you say otherwise you’re misinformed. You may not relate to his music if you don’t come from a similar background which is cool but for the majority of us who do come from that and actually understand the struggle of trying to transcend an environment where intellect is frowned upon to fulfill your true purpose….you know the impact he had and status he achieved.” Another wrote: “Nipsey Hussle will forever be one of the greatest, most of y’all haters in the comments must listen to P Diddy and MC Hammer.”

TI Discusses Working With Andre 3000

As for new music from TI, he recently shot down the possibility of releasing a collaborative project with Boosie Badazz. Appearing on the We In Miami podcast, earlier this month, he explained: “I feel like the time that we had allotted for it, we kind of passed by it. You know what I mean? It was ready. We got the records. But it’s so much that goes into releasing a record besides just releasing the record, and I feel like we kinda missed the window. Not saying that that window can’t present itself again. We have a very healthy relationship.”

Read More: T.I. Talks About Andre 3000’s Outstanding Feature On “Trouble Man”

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Beyonce Labels Kendrick Lamar A “Legend,” Someone She “Deeply Appreciates”

All through her RENAISSANCE World Tour, Beyonce has been captivating us with near-constant Instagram posts. They’ve been particularly noteworthy as of late, thanks to the “Halo” singer’s recent birthday, as well as the celebrity guests she invited to perform with her during her three-night stint in Los Angeles. DJ Khaled, Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz, and Coi Leray were among them, but perhaps the fan favourite of everyone who helped out Queen B would have to be Kendrick Lamar.

Earlier in the summer, he and the mother of three teamed up for the “AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM (Remix).” For her final night in the City of Angels, Bey brought K-Dot out alongside her in her iconic bee costume. The Pulitzer Prize winner delivered his thought-provoking bars perfectly, but unfortunately, technical difficulties made his audio hard to hear for a significant portion of their performance. Regardless, Beyonce still gave Lamar his flowers in an IG post shared on Monday (September 11) evening.

Read More: Kendrick Lamar’s Microphone Gives Out During “AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM” Performance With Beyonce

Beyonce is a Big Kendrick Lamar Fan

“Thank you again to the legend Kendrick Lamar for blessing the Renaissance World Tour,” the Houston native captioned her upload. “I deeply appreciate you. What an incredible experience. Respect, 🐝,” Beyonce’s brief but heartfelt message concluded. As followers are already pointing out in the comments, it’s rare for the record-breaking hitmaker to add any sort of text along with her photo dumps, proving just how much the opportunity to join forces with the Kung Fu Kenny on stage again meant to her, especially on her birthday.

Beyonce’s tribute to Kendrick Lamar is just as heartfelt as the hundreds of others she’s given to artists over the years. Unfortunately, another attempt to honour the Compton native, this one in Poland, went terribly wrong after a video of a karaoke performer doing blackface went viral earlier this week. Read more about that at the link below, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.

Read More: Polish Karaoke Competition Destroyed Online Over Kendrick Lamar Blackface Performance

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Iron Sheik Passes Away At 81

If you are a wrestling fan, then you most certainly know who the Iron Sheik is. Overall, he was one of the biggest legends throughout the 80s. He was the heel of all heels and was a rival to Hulk Hogan. Moreover, he had a very dynamic personality that lasted decades. Even though he wasn’t in the ring anymore, Sheik continued to make people laugh on Twitter and even on Howard Stern. Unfortunately, according to TMZ, it was revealed today that the Iron Sheik passed away at the age of 81.

The WWE has already released a statement on the matter. They said: “WWE is saddened to hear of the passing of WWE Hall of Famer The Iron Sheik, and extends its condolences to his family, friends, and fans.” Overall, this is an immense loss for the wrestling community. Additionally, his Twitter page put out a lengthy statement on the matter. Throughout the statement, the Iron Sheik was eulogized in a way. It explains some of his biggest moments in wrestling and the impact he had on others.

Read More: Top 10 Wrestlers Who Need Biopics

The Iron Sheik Was Beloved

“Today, we gather with heavy hearts to bid farewell to a true legend, a force of nature, and an iconic figure who left an incredible mark on the world of professional wrestling,” the statement begins. “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of The Iron Sheik, but we also take solace in knowing that he departed this world peacefully, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for generations to come.” The post has been retweeted almost 20,000 times, and the comments are filled with people offering condolences.

Needless to say, this is a very sad moment for the wrestling world. More pressingly, this is a tragedy for his family, and we extend our condolences during this time. He was a legend who will most certainly be missed. RIP Iron Sheik. Let us know your favorite moments from the icon, in the comments section below.

Read More: WWE News: Ronda Rousey’s New Show Is A Hit

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LL Cool J Net Worth 2023: What Is The Legend Worth?

LL Cool J, born James Todd Smith, is a legendary American rapper, actor, and entrepreneur whose career has spanned over three decades. But what is the net worth of the Hip Hop legend? We’ll be looking at what exactly has gone into the wealth of the star throughout this article!

LL Cool J Net Worth

With an estimated net worth of $120 million according to Celebrity Net Worth in 2023, the hip-hop icon has proved his staying power in the entertainment industry.

The Rise of LL Cool J’s Music Career

Young LL Cool J
(Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)

Born in 1968 in Bay Shore, New York, LL Cool J began his music career at the young age of 16. His debut album, Radio, was released in 1985 and became an instant success. The album went platinum, establishing LL Cool J as a force to be reckoned with in the rap world. Since then, he has released 13 studio albums, with hits like “Mama Said Knock You Out,” “I’m Bad,” and “Hey Lover.”

The talented rapper’s music career has not only earned him millions of dollars but also numerous accolades. This includes two Grammy Awards, four NAACP Image Awards, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Acting Success And LL Cool J Net Worth

LL on stage
(Photo by Lester Cohen/WireImage)

LL Cool J has seamlessly transitioned from music to acting, with his first major role in the 1991 film The Hard Way. Since then, he has appeared in numerous films and television shows, such as In the House, Deep Blue Sea, Any Given Sunday, and S.W.A.T.

However, his most notable acting role has been as Special Agent Sam Hanna on the popular television series NCIS: Los Angeles. The show, which began airing in 2009, has significantly contributed to LL Cool J’s net worth.

LL Cool J’s Entrepreneurial Ventures

LL Cool J presenting award
(Photo by Kevin Winter/WireImage)

In addition to his music and acting careers, LL Cool J has been involved in various entrepreneurial ventures that have helped grow his wealth. In the 1990s, he started his own music label, P.O.G. (Power of God) Recordings. While the label is now defunct, it was a testament to his business acumen and desire to expand his brand.

J also ventured into fashion with the launch of his clothing line, “Todd Smith,” in 2006. The line featured urban streetwear, including t-shirts, jeans, and hoodies. Though it didn’t achieve massive success, it provided the rapper with valuable business experience.

Endorsements and Partnerships

LL Cool J on red carpet
(Photo by Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

LL Cool J’s fame and success have led to numerous endorsement deals and partnerships over the years. He has worked with brands like Coca-Cola, Gap, and FUBU, helping to boost his net worth further. These endorsements not only expanded his brand visibility but also added to his impressive net worth.

LL Cool J: Philanthropy and Giving Back

LL Cool J supporting breast cancer research.
(Photo credit should read ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images)

J has always been passionate about giving back to the community. He has been involved in several charitable organizations and initiatives, such as his Jump & Ball Tournament, which provides free basketball camps to underprivileged youth. The rapper also supports organizations like the American Red Cross, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and Keep a Child Alive, further establishing his dedication to making a difference.

Conclusion/TLDR

LL Cool J’s net worth of $120 million in 2023 is a testament to his long-lasting career and impressive achievements in music, acting, and business. The legendary rapper continues to make his mark on the entertainment industry while remaining committed to giving back to the community.

Jack Harlow Recalls Working With Lance Reddick On “White Men Can’t Jump”

The untimely passing of beloved actor Lance Reddick has been one of the most painful stories in pop culture this year. However, his esteemed legacy and power as an actor will continue to live on not just through his work, but through his family and collaborators. Moreover, Jack Harlow recently recalled The Wire star’s grace on set while at the premiere of their film White Men Can’t Jump. Furthermore, The Hollywood Reporter asked the Louisville rapper about his time with Reddick, and he had some kind words for his late costar. Although Harlow said he didn’t spend much time with him due to scheduling, he called him “an absolute pleasure” to work with.

“I got about two days on set with Lance,” Jack Harlow told the outlet at the film’s premiere on Friday (May 12). “I’m so glad you brought the legend up. Rest in peace to Lance.” The remake of White Men Can’t Jump (originally released in 1992) marks one of Lance Reddick’s final projects he worked on before his loss at age 60. In addition to him and the “They Don’t Love It” MC, Vince Staples, Teyana Taylor, and Laura Harrier also star in the movie. For those who want to check it out, it will appear on Hulu for streaming on May 19.

Read More: Why Is Machine Gun Kelly Beefing With Jack Harlow?

Jack Harlow & Lance Reddick In White Men Can’t Jump: Watch The Trailer

After Lance Reddick passed, many fans and celebrities offered their condolences and remembered him with a lot of love. Unfortunately, the tragic news also came with seemingly false reports on his cause of death. While reports emerged citing his cause of death as heart disease, his family members fought back against those claims. No matter the truth behind it, his wife Stephanie issues a heartfelt message following the outpouring of grief and support.

“Lance was taken from us far too soon,” she wrote, linking to a charity to help under-supported mothers caring for sick or pre-term babies in his hometown of Baltimore. “Thank you for all your overwhelming love, support and beautiful stories shared on these platforms over the last day. I see your messages and can’t begin to express how grateful I am to have them. And to the thousands of Destiny players who played in special tribute to Lance, thank you. Lance loved you as much as he loved the game.” For more news on Jack Harlow, Lance Reddick, or notable tributes to the actor’s legacy, stick around on HNHH. RIP.

Read More: Lance Reddick Movies & TV Shows, Ranked

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John Legend Lives Up To His Namesake On ‘Legend’ While Celebrating The Beauty Of Love And Intimacy

The RX is Uproxx Music’s stamp of approval for the best albums, songs, and music stories throughout the year. Inclusion in this category is the highest distinction we can bestow and signals the most important music being released throughout the year. The RX is the music you need, right now.

John Legend, born John Roger Stephens, has borne that as his stage name for nearly two decades now. It was given to him by Chicago poet J. Ivy who felt that Legend’s music reminds him of “that music from the old school” and that his voice sounded “like one of the legends.” Legend was reluctant to accept that name, but once it caught on, it was only right that he at least try to live to that new last name.

Twelve Grammy awards, four Platinum-selling albums, and countless TV show and movie appearances later, it’s beyond safe to say that Legend has lived up to his namesake. However, in a continued moment of humility, it wasn’t until now that he was truly ready to bring a sharp spotlight to the name that he once was a bit hesitant to bear.

Less than two years away from the 20th anniversary of his classic debut album Get Lifted, Legend returns with his ninth album, Legend — a double album that he believes captures everything that makes him the artist we’ve come to love.

Together with its release, John Legend sat with Uproxx to speak about Legend, why he is finally comfortable with its title, and a coincidental run-in with Saweetie.

Before we get into any music, I want to congratulate you on your new baby on the way. How are feeling as time progress, as well as, about having a third child around the house?

I’m excited! I feel like we’re pretty experienced parents now. We’re very comfortable and confident in inviting a new life into our world. I think we’ve got a sense of how we want to raise our kids and we just feel more comfortable than we’ve ever been, as far as being parents and our rhythm as a family. I feel like they can handle a new baby. Of course, you know, we’ve dealt with pregnancy loss before. So it’s always a bit of cautious optimism whenever you’re pregnant and you’ve lost one before because you just never know what could happen. But we’re excited to be parents and feel like we can do a good job of parenting together when we do bring the new baby into the world.

We’re officially in a new John Legend era, but I want you to tell it: how you would define this era in terms of the type of music and overall aesthetic at hand?

When I think about the music, I don’t know if it’s like a clean break from any era because I’m always growing and evolving as a musician. Each album has had its own character and its own personality, but it’s all me, it’s all who I am and where I am in my life at that time. I worked with different people on this album, to some extent, and I worked with some of the same people too. There are some songs that will sound very familiar and that will remind people of other things that I’ve done before and then other songs that we found a bit more new and different than what I’ve done before. This is the first time we’ve ever made an album that is self-titled, the first time we’ve ever done a double album, so that’s kind of a big and new thing for me with this project.

What gave you the confidence to go with a title like Legend?

I think the fresh start with Republic. I think also writing the audiobook that I’m doing with Audible that’s coming out in September. I was talking a lot about all that went into me changing my stage name and how I wasn’t sure whether or not I was ready to change my name back then because I was like, “How can I call myself ‘John Legend’ when I haven’t even gotten a record deal yet?” So, I told that whole story, and that’ll come out around the same time as the album, and it just made me really reflect on this whole journey was my name and how I finally felt like I was ready to not only to feel like I’m living up to this aspirational name that I gave myself when I was nowhere near being a legend, but also that I was ready to embrace it as an album title.

What would you say is the overall theme or main message you aim to deliver on Legend?

I think it’s a celebration of love, sensuality, intimacy, and connection. In that way, it’s a continuation of what I’ve been all about my entire career. I think musically, we did some fun and adventurous things that are a bit different from anything I’ve done in the past, and then some things that are more familiar. I think in general, I felt comfortable calling it Legend as well because it felt really representative of who I am as a musician. All the influences that made me who I am and all of it coming together on this really robust, double album that represents all the different parts of who I am.

This project is more collaborative than Bigger Love. What pushed you to reach out to more artists to work with this time around?

I think it’s important for me to stay connected to what’s new. I’ve been in business for a long time, but it’s really inspiring for me to connect with newer artists who inspire me and keep me fresh. I think collaborating with new people keeps you out of creative ruts I think, it pushes you and inspires you.

Is there a truly unique story with any of the collaborations on the album?

Saweetie was probably the most [unique]. It was almost random that she’s on the album because I literally ran into her and her manager at the Beverly Hills Hotel. I worked with her manager many years ago; he booked me and Kanye to do an event together way back — like before Get Lifted even came out, or right around when it came out, so it was literally the beginning of my career. He came up and said what’s up to me and was telling the story of how we worked together over 15 years ago. He’s standing there with Saweetie and I was just talking about Saweetie the day before because one of her songs came on the radio and was telling my wife how much I liked the song. I was telling Saweetie this and I was like, “We should do something together!” Then her manager sat with my A&R a couple of days later. We played them “All She Wanna Do” and they were like, “This is the one.” It all came from me running into her at the Beverly Hills Hotel Restaurant. I love her part on the album. I think it just adds extra flavor and it’s kind of unexpected, but it works really well with the song.

The current landscape of R&B is often criticized by some while others praise it. How do you perceive it?

People are always saying it’s dead or it’s this or that, but I feel like there have been so many talented R&B artists to come out in the last few years. I feel like there’s been some great music. and then there’s been some not-so-great music, but I feel like that’s always the case. I think it is a challenge thinking about this era of heavy auto-tune and where there’s a little less of a premium on really good singing. I think a lot of old-school cats are probably disappointed by that development in R&B and you know, I think it does hinder people’s live shows and hinders certain aspects of what it takes to be a great all-around artist. I still think there’s a lot of great R&B being made and a lot of great young artists that I listen to and enjoy. I love Leon Bridges, I love HER, I love Jazmine [Sullivan], I love Muni [Long], I love Daniel Caesar. There are a lot of just really talented people making R&B music these days. I think there’s always gonna be stuff that we don’t love and there’s always gonna be stuff we love. I just try to focus on the stuff that I love and listen to that and not worry about the rest.

At this point in your career, eight albums in with plenty of awards to your name, what’s your driving force nowadays?

The key is that I can never assume that people are gonna love the next thing I do. So I have to prove myself worthy of their attention and worthy of their love. For any new project I do, I feel like I have to hold myself to the highest of standards and that was the approach I had with this album. That’s the approach I have with every album and every show that I do. Nothing I did before is enough to make you love something new if it’s not good on its own, you know? So I have to prove myself to my fans and to everybody else every single time I make a new album.

What do you hope Legend contributes toward your overall artistry and career?

Well, I like that it’s a double album because it’s showing the different sides of who I am and both where I am now in my life, but also looking back to some extent at where I’ve come from. I think it’s as thorough of a representation of my influences and my artistry as any other project that I’ve done. So I think that’s why I felt like this was the one to call Legend. So I’m really confident making it a double album and that’s why I’m so excited for people to hear it.

Legend is out now via Republic Records. You can stream it here.

Saweetie is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.