LL Cool J recently opened up about his forthcoming album and praised the legendary Q-Tip for his excellent executive production. While the rapper celebrated a big night at the 65th Grammy Awards red carpet, he’s got an even bigger year ahead. Moreover, this new LP from LL will be his first since 2013’s Authentic. “I know all the tricks. I got this covered,” he expressed to E! News. “Look, it was executive produced by Q-Tip. The album I think is really, really special. I think it’s something it’s modern without chasing. It’s a whole new thing. I can’t wait for the people to see it.
“I think honestly and sincerely that Q-Tip as a producer is unbelievable and what he did on this record for me, I think is amazing,” he continued. “So the world will decide.” Shortly after the Grammys, the rap pioneer doubled down on his promo via Twitter. “My new album is coming this year,” he wrote earlier today (February 6). Also, he previously teased his next album on his 55th birthday. “I’m competing with myself on this new album. Wait til you hear this MF,” the MC tweeted. “This year B. It’s coming.” As he also celebrates hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, it’s going to be a big year for the Rock The Bells mogul.
On that note, he hosted a celebration for the genre at the Grammy awards ceremony. Alongside The Roots, with the occasion curated by their drummer and icon Questlove, he blended different eras of hip-hop together. While DJ Jazzy Jeff and DJ Drama controlled the mixers, hip-hop history unfolded on the Grammys stage. It began with performances from some of its pioneers: Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, Run-DMC, and LL Cool J himself. Then, the show moved through a barrage of rap icons playing some of their biggest hits.
Meanwhile, the newer generations also got their slice of the pie. Following Method Man, Queen Latifah, and Public Enemy, artists like Missy Elliott, Nelly, and Busta Rhymes kept the energy up. Finally, the show rounded out with some big current names like Lil Baby, GloRilla, and Lil Uzi Vert. Between this and more great music from some of the genre’s legends, all we can do is wait patiently and take it all in. As always, log back into HNHH for the latest on LL Cool J, upcoming albums, and the artistry of hip-hop.