The lineup also has a ton of previously announced performers that are sure to keep the celebration going all night and keep viewers at home entertained. Right now, Megan Thee Stallion, Jelly Roll, Sabrina Carpenter, Green Day, Ludacris, Janelle Monáe, Ellie Goulding, Doechii, Thirty Seconds To Mars, Nile Rodgers and CHIC, Paul Russell, Loud Luxury, Two Friends and Bebe Rexha, Reneé Rapp and Coco Jones, Aqua, Post Malone, NewJeans, and Ivy Queen will all be making appearances — whether they are in NYC or broadcasting from another part of the globe.
Seacrest will be joined by two co-hosts: Rita Ora and Jeannie Mai. New Year’s Rockin’ Eve will air on Sunday, December 31 starting at 8 p.m. on ABC. More information about the event can be found here.
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary took center stage in 2023, marking a year of celebratory events honoring the birth of the influential genre. From LL Cool J’sRock The Bells Festival to the iconic ESSENCE Festival, the prominence of the 50th year of Hip-Hop was evident, alongside it being featured at culture’s biggest award shows such as the 65th Annual Grammy Awardsand theMTV VMAs.
3. Happy 50th Anniversary, Hip-Hop!
ESSENCE Festival Honors Hip-Hop’s 50th Anniversary
The ESSENCE Festival, held in July 2023, served as a platform to pay homage to several hip-hop icons and celebrate Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary. The festival featured an unforgettable performance by Lauryn Hill, who headlined the event alongside other pioneering figures of the genre.
Hennessy & Sprite Partnerships Reflect the Milestone Year
RapperNasembraced the spirit of Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary through various brand collaborations. One notable partnership was with renowned liquor brand Hennessy, presenting a special edition release celebrating the milestone.
Additionally, Nas joined forces with Sprite for a collaboration that involved fellow artists Rakim, Latto, and GloRilla, further emphasizing the significance of the genre’s 50-year legacy.
5. Queen Bey’s ‘Renaissance Era
In the vibrant landscape of 2023, where the essence of Black culture thrived,Beyoncé claimed the top position with her monumental “Renaissance” era. As we delve into the top 23 highlights of the year, Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary stands out as a pivotal moment that shaped the cultural landscape and showcased the genre’s enduring impact.
In the House was a popular sitcom in the 90s that warmed the hearts of many. Its five-season run was fairly successful and also featured a star-studded cast. Unleashing the comedic chops of LL Cool J to the world, the series enjoyed a pretty remarkable run. While a reboot is unlikely, reruns have kept many households entertained. However, it’s always common to wonder what the cast of the series is up to today, especially since some of them have drastically reduced on screen. Here’s what the cast of In The House are up to today.
LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 15: Host LL Cool J speaks onstage during The 58th GRAMMY Awards at Staples Center on February 15, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
LL Cool J already had a prolific music career before starring as Marion Hill on In The House. Though he played a character with financial troubles, LL Cool J’s career hasn’t slowed down in decades. He’s widely considered one of the most iconic rappers of all time. Since the end of In The House, he has guest-starred on various game shows and even hosted a few. He has been married to Simone Johnson since 1995 and they have four children together. These days, he is best known for his long-running role as Special Agent Sam Hanna in the NCIS franchise, which he finally retired this year after 14 years.
Following the conclusion of In The House in 1999, LL Cool J kept the music rolling with his eighth album, G.O.A.T. This was his first and, to date, only album to top the Billboard 200 charts. By his 11th album, Todd Smith, his music penetrated younger listeners, particularly with the radio hit, “Control Myself,” featuring Jennifer Lopez. However, on the music front, he hasn’t released any new albums since 2013’s Authentic.
LL Cool J has rightly received his flowers over the years. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2016. He also became the first rapper to receive the Kennedy Center Honors in 2017. Likewise, LL Cool J was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2021.
Debbie Allen
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 19: Honoree Debbie Allen, recipient of the Governors Award, poses in the press room during the 73rd Primetime Emmy Awards at L.A. LIVE on September 19, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Rich Fury/Getty Images)
Debbie Allen is a well-decorated actress, choreographer, and film producer, with five Emmys, two Tonys, and a Golden Globe Award to her name. She played Jackie Warren on In the House, the down-on-luck mother of two who moves into Marion’s house. She married former NBA player Norm Nixon in 1984 and they share four children. Career-wise, she has dipped her toes in multiple areas of the entertainment industry, from choreographing to producing, and even music. Allen has also continued her acting career, guest starring in various shows such as The Proud Family: Louder And Prouder and Raven’s Home. She currently maintains her long-running role as Dr. Catherine Avery Fox on Grey’s Anatomy.
Maia Campbell during Jamie Foster Hosts Sister 2 Sister Magazine 16th Anniversary at Crobar in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
Maia Campbell has led a relatively private life in recent years. This is due to her ongoing struggles with her mental health. In 2000, she lost custody of her daughter due to her refusal to take medication for her bipolar disorder. The following years were also not too kind to her, as she was publicly recorded displaying unstable behavior. Subsequently, she was institutionalized by her family. She hasn’t been active in the entertainment industry since 2017.
Jeffery Wood may have only been in the first few seasons of In the House, but his character, Austin Warren, was a beloved one. After leaving the show, his next big project was Sunset Beach, where he played Jimmy Harrison. He has merely starred in episodes of a few shows since then. He also participated in several short films over the years. However, he hasn’t had any major, mainstream projects since. In 2017, he played the Warlock in the trailer for the popular game Destiny 2.
Kim Wayans
LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 20: Kim Wayans arrives for Morgan Stanley presents Alfre Woodard’s 10th Annual Sistahs’ Soiree on February 20, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gabriel Olsen/Getty Images)
Kim Wayans played the hilarious Tonia Harris from the second season of In the House. A member of the famously comedic Wayans family, she pivoted to more dramatic roles in 2011, when she starred in Pariah. She focused majorly on acting since then, starring in shows like Reckless and The Breaks. She has also made notable appearances on The Black Lady Sketch Show and Hawai’i Five-0. Moreover, she is the author of a children’s book series titled Amy Hodgepodge, which she wrote with her husband
Alfonso Ribeiro
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 28: Alfonso Ribeiro speaks with Bevy Smith on Radio Andy at the SiriusXM Studios on September 28, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images)
Alfonso Ribeiro joined the cast of In the House in its third season, playing Dr. Maxwell Stanton, a friend of Marion’s and his coworker at the sports clinic. Best known for his role as Carlton Banks on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Ribeiro continued to work in entertainment after both shows. His career has mostly focused on hosting since then, and he has hosted shows such as Catch 21 and GSN Live. He is currently the host of Dancing With The Stars after winning its 19th season. He also hosts America’s Funniest Home Videos. Furthermore, Ribeiro has some directing credits under his belt.
With the 1990 release of Mama Said Knock You Out, LL Cool J revitalized his career. He also redefined the trajectory of hip-hop during a transformative era in the genre. This album emerged as a crucial pivot point. It revealed LL Cool J’s evolution from a charismatic teenage rapper to a seasoned artist with a commanding presence. Far more than just a commercial success, Mama Said Knock You Out was a cultural milestone. It blended the grit of New York’s streets with a polished production that appealed to a broad audience.
LL Cool J deftly navigated this album’s fame and authenticity complexities. He delivered an unapologetically bold statement that resonated with long-time fans and new listeners. The title track, “Mama Said Knock You Out,” symbolized his renewed vigor and artistic depth. The album stood a testament to LL Cool J’s resilience in industry skepticism, reaffirming his status as a luminary in the hip-hop world.
Mama Said Knock You Out: A Fusion Of Ferocity & Rhythm
LL Cool J’s Mama Said Knock You Out Is a masterclass in the fusion of lyrical ferocity with finesse. The album breaks new ground, moving beyond the boundaries of traditional hip-hop to incorporate a diverse array of musical influences. Its production, spearheaded by the legendary Marley Marl, holds sophisticated samples that perfectly complement LL Cool J’s dynamic vocal delivery.
The title track, “Mama Said Knock You Out,” is a quintessential anthem of resilience and strength. With its unforgettable hook and lyrics, the song resonates as a powerful rebuttal to critics and naysayers. It cemented LL Cool J’s comeback in the rap game. Other tracks like “Around the Way Girl” showcase a smoother, more melodic approach. THis highlighted LL Cool J’s versatility as an artist capable of delivering hardcore raps and soulful, rhythmic tunes.
LL Cool J navigates themes of fame, perseverance, and authenticity throughout the album. Tracks such as “Jingling Baby (Remixed But Still Jingling)” and “Boomin’ System” exemplify his skill in creating music that’s both reflective and entertaining. This blend of introspection with a celebration of the genre’s roots contributes to the album’s enduring appeal. This made Mama Said Knock You Out a seminal work in LL Cool J’s catalog and in hip-hop history.
Charting Success & Critical Acclaim Of Mama Said Knock You Out
LL Cool J’s Mama Said Knock You Out achieved remarkable commercial success. Its wide-reaching appeal and the rapper’s skill in striking a chord with audiences. The album charted highly on the Billboard 200 and secured LL Cool J’s status as a mainstream hip-hop artist. It was a commercial triumph, resonating with fans across the hip-hop spectrum and beyond, proving the genre’s growing appeal.
“Mama Said Knock You Out” became an instant classic, dominating airwaves and music video channels. Its success on the charts was mirrored by other singles from the album, which also received substantial airplay and acclaim. The album’s critical reception bolstered this commercial success. Reviewers praised LL Cool J for his revitalized energy and the album’s innovative production. Critics noted the album’s blend of rap and rhythmic melodies, lauding it as a pivotal work in the evolution of hip-hop.
Mama Said Knock You Out was more than just a hit. It was a statement. It earned LL Cool J a Grammy Award, solidifying his resurgence and influence in the industry. The album’s success marked a turning point in his career.
Enduring Influence: The Legacy Of Mama Said Knock You Out
The legacy of LL Cool J’s Mama Said Knock You Out extends far beyond its initial release. It has continued to resonate in the fabric of hip-hop culture. This album not only solidified LL Cool J’s position as a key figure in rap music but also set new standards for the genre. It exemplified how artists could evolve and reinvent themselves, maintaining relevance in a rapidly changing musical landscape.
The cultural impact of Mama Said Knock You Out is reflected in its lasting appeal to both old and new fans of hip-hop. The album’s influence is evident in the works of subsequent artists who draw inspiration from LL Cool J’s fusion of raw lyrical expression with rhythmic, engaging production.
Furthermore, Mama Said Knock You Out significantly broadened the scope of hip-hop, pushing the genre into new realms and expanding its audience. LL Cool J’s blend of traditional rap elements with innovative approaches to rhythm and melody opened doors for diverse artistic expressions within hip-hop. The album’s success paved the way for future artists to explore and experiment, contributing to the genre’s growth and dynamism.
LL Cool J gave DJ Kool Herc an incredible tribute for his 2023 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction at the Brooklyn ceremony tonight. The speech started with LL Cool J looking back on how Kool Herc kicked off the origins of hip-hop by DJ’ing a party for his sister, Cindy Campbell. She was doing it to earn money for back-to-school clothes in 1973.
“We don’t know how much money Cindy managed to raise that day or what clothes she managed to buy but we know she changed the course of history, of music history,” LL Cool J said. “That party has come to be known as the birthplace of hip-hop.”
“It’s a culture that changed my life obviously,” he added, according to Rolling Stone. “It changed the lives of millions and millions of people.”
DJ Kool Herc then went up on stage, bringing Cindy along too.
“I got tears in my eyes,” Herc shared, giving some heartfelt acknowledgments. He then gave his sister a moment to speak.
“LL, you gave a heartfelt introduction, thank you, we love you,” Cindy said. “We always did, and I want to congratulate my brother DJ Kool Herc for staying on that path and getting where he is today. Congratulations to my brother.”
This year marks the 50th anniversary of DJ Kool Herc playing that first party.
The National Basketball Association (NBA) has unveiled a thrilling collaboration between Grammy Award-winning hip-hop legend LL COOL J and the four-time Grammy Award-winning group The Roots. Together, they have reimagined the iconic song “Mama Said Knock You Out” to serve as the official anthem for the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament.
This bespoke anthem blends LL COOL J’s Grammy-winning hit “Mama Said Knock You Out” with the lively hook from The Roots’ popular track “Here I Come.” The result is a dynamic musical backdrop that will accompany the various stages of the In-Season Tournament, starting with Group Play involving all 30 NBA teams and culminating in the Championship.
The anthem spot pays homage to the original VMA Award-winning music video while injecting a modern twist. LL COOL J’s presence transitions from the boxing ring to the hardwood of the In-Season Tournament stage, complete with a tribute to the tournament’s coveted trophy, the NBA Cup, and a live performance by The Roots.
“I’ve been a fan of the NBA ever since I can remember, and it’s a real honor to have my record serving as the anthem for this monumental moment,” said LL COOL J. “I’m excited to see the energy of the song translate to the play on the court during the NBA In-Season Tournament.”
The NBA is going all-out for the newest addition to its calendar. For years, it’s been reported that Adam Silver wanted the league to adopt some sort of additional competition that took place during the regular season, and earlier this year, the announcement came that the NBA would institute the inaugural In-Season Tournament during the 2023-24 campaign.
We’ve seen some of the ways that the league wants to hype up the event already. There will be dedicated nights of the week over the next month — Tuesdays (minus Election Day) and Fridays — that will serve as tournament nights. There will be special courts and jerseys for those games, and there’s a terrific ad for the whole thing that seems ripped from the Oceans series. Once the four semifinalists are determined, those teams will head to Las Vegas for the semifinals and final.
And on Friday morning, the league unveiled the latest way it’s looking to add a little bit of excitement to the festivities. LL Cool J and The Roots teamed up to combine the song “Mama Said Knock You Out” with the melody of “Here I Come” to create the official anthem for the event.
“I’ve been a fan of the NBA ever since I can remember, and it’s a real honor to have my record serving as the anthem for this monumental moment,” LL Cool J said in a statement. “I’m excited to see the energy of the song translate to the play on the court during the NBA In-Season Tournament.”
The first slate of In-Season Tournament games begins on Friday, Nov. 3.
On this date in 1985, Hip-Hop bigwig Russell Simmons along with film producer Michael Schultz unveiled the Hip-Hop glory days fairy tale about the early days of Def Jam in the Warner Brothers distributed Krush Groove.
This cinematic, quasi-musical was told in a very unique manner, with almost all of the artists playing themselves as the story is being told; The Fat Boys, Run-D.M.C., Kurtis Blow, Jeckyl and Hyde, the Beastie Boys and Sheila E. all starred as themselves, while being managed by Russell(ironically, played by Blair Underwood) and a young Rick Rubin before they became the icons that they are recognized as today. The flick even gives a quick peek into how Def Jam’s rookie and first solo artist L.L. Cool J was recruited in Def Jam’s NYU dorm “office”.
The movie’s soundtrack boasts more than a few hits, such as The Fat Boys’ “All You Can Eat”. LL’s “I Can’t Live Without My Radio”, the original “If I Ruled The World” by Kurtis Blow, which was famously remixed by Nas and Lauryn Hill a decade after the movie’s release and the title track by The Krush Groove All Stars.
Shout out to all of the legends who were quarterbacked by Hip-Hop’s Barack Russell Simmons in making this Def Jam biopic forever a Hip Hop classic!
The Golden age of Hip Hop was marked by some of the finest talents ever to grace the scene. Sitting right atop the pack was none other than LL Cool J. Today, the rap icon has become known to newer audiences as an actor and TV host. However, once upon a time, he was dropping back-to-back timeless albums. One of these projects is Mama Said Knock You Out.
Don’t get it twisted; even though LL Cool J is a jack of all trades, he’s still a master of rap. Forever dedicated to his craft, even after four decades since his debut, he still plans on releasing new music. Even though his legacy was already firm before 1990, his fourth album was an exceptional success. Furthermore, it’s widely regarded as one of the best Hip Hop albums ever. Spitting some of his most iconic bars on the record, the album set him even further apart from his peers. Thirty-three years later, the foundation of Hip Hop’s Golden Age is still partially owed to this classic project.
A Rising Legend Forges On
As aforementioned, before 1990, LL Cool J was already three albums in. Between his debut, Radio, and his third album, Walking with a Panther, he had become a rap juggernaut. However, some of his music between his second and third albums didn’t gain substantial love from Hip Hop enthusiasts. All that changed soon after when he released Mama Said Knock You Out. Seen as a return to form, LL was as tough and as bold as ever, and it became evident that no one was holding a torch to him.
LL Cool J Gets Back To Basics
As mentioned, LL Cool J lost some loyal fans after releasing his second and third albums. While still unmistakably Hip Hop, the rapper had begun to venture into other musical territory. His foray into love ballads was especially frowned upon by strict fans of the genre, but it all showcased his broad appeal. Also, looking back, Hip Hop was not as welcoming as it is today. Nonetheless, LL was bagging many new fans by his fourth time out. While his lyrical genius and tough-guy persona stayed intact, he also grew to become somewhat of a sex symbol. When he eventually performed the title track on MTV Unplugged, LL Cool J was ultimately certified as the hottest rapper around.
Beyond the imagery of it all, the music was also top-notch. Singles like “The Boomin’ System” and “Around the Way Girl” enjoyed significant airplay on the radio. Additionally, they helped to diversify his ever-rising fanbase. The final single off the album, “6 Minutes of Pleasure,” also enjoyed moderate success. However, with the plethora of topics he covered, LL Cool J stood out because he sounded at ease. His playful side was easily on display, both in his lyricism and in the music videos he put out. This further boosted his relatability as an artist despite some of the hard bars in his music.
A Stylish Hip Hop Classic
Marley Marl and LL Cool J were the sole producers on Mama Said Knock You Out, save for Bobby Erving, who co-produced the title track. By keeping the production circle as minimal as possible, there’s a distinct cohesion felt throughout the project. The album was also a commercial success and has since been certified 2x Platinum. Nonetheless, whether or not Mama Said Knock You Out dominated the markets or not, the music would have still rendered it a classic. Why? Because the Def Jam wunderkind kicked off the ’90s in grand style. It’s no wonder he was already labeled a veteran by his early 20s—and now, he has the discography to back the claims.
The BET Hip Hop Awards witnessed an unforgettable moment as hip-hop legends Rakim and LL Cool J paid tribute to the influential Marley Marl through their timeless performances. LL Cool J performed “Jinglin Baby,” “Mr Good Bar,” “Around the Way Girl” & “Mama Said Knock You Out.” Then, Rakim joined the stage to perform “Eric B for President” and “Paid In Full.” This monumental event served as a reminder of hip-hop’s rich history and enduring impact. Marley Marl, known for his groundbreaking production work in the 1980s, played a pivotal role in shaping the hip-hop landscape. He’s renowned for pioneering the use of sampling and was instrumental in the rise of some of rap’s most iconic artists.
Rakim, often cited as one of the greatest lyricists in hip-hop, took to the stage to honor Marley Marl. He delivered a dope performance of “Paid In Full,” a classic track that is not only a reminder to Rakim’s lyrical abilities but also a reflection of Marley Marl’s exceptional production skills. The audience was treated to Rakim’s flow and lyrical mastery, reminiscent of the golden era of hip-hop. This performance also coincided with the 50th year anniversary of hip-hop.
Fans thoroughly appeared to enjoy watching the performance. People in the comment section mentioned how much they loved the tribute and how it reminded them of their love for hip-hop. “Back when the art form had soul and flavor. What a treat watching Mr. LL perform “Mr. Good Bar.” “1990’s ‘Mama Said Knock You Out’ is one of the reasons why I cannot turn Hip-Hop loose,” one person commented. “Two of the cornerstones of hip hop. Rappers around the world owe LL, Rakim and Mr. Marley Marl a gratitude of thanks,” another person said. While many acknowledged the lively performance, others couldn’t help but notice what appeared to be a dull crowd. “The fact that everybody ain’t on their feet during Rakim’s performance is a disgrace to the culture, this man is a legend,” one person said. “There would be no Jay, Nas or Biggie without him.”
“The audience didn’t deserve this performance! Everyone shoulda been standing up! I’m disappointed in them. This was a top tier performance! Others should take notes. THISSSSS is how it’s done!!! I woulda lost my damn mind if I was there. Salute to hip hop! The real hip hop!!” another said. Moreover, the BET Hip Hop Awards provided a platform to honor Marley Marl, a producer who left a mark on hip-hop’s evolution. This tribute not only celebrated Marley Marl’s contributions to hip-hop but also highlighted the importance of acknowledging the pioneers who shaped the genre. What’d you think of the performance? Let us know on HNHH!
