LL Cool J: A Career Timeline

See why Uncle L is a hip hop G.O.A.T.

The Taste of Success\r - In 1997, LL wins a second Grammy for Best Rap Solo Performance for the track “Hey Lover,” featuring Boyz II Men, off of his Mr. Smith album. (Photo: Def Jam Records)
Phenomenal - When most rappers begin losing steam, LL, nearing his 30th birthday, releases Phenomenon, which includes a single he's produced with EPMD’s Erik Sermon for hardcore hip hop fans, “4, 3, 2, 1,” featuring Red Man and Method Man and introducing famous rappers DMX and Canibus to the world.\r(Photo: Def Jam Records)
Trendsetter\r  - LL was always fashion-forward — from his signature Kangol in the '80s and his leather TROOP ensembles, to his one-pant leg rolled up — the ladies loved him and the fellas envied his swagger. So it was a genius match when LL linked up with the Queens-bred urban sportswear line FUBU (For Us, By Us). He helped launch the Black-owned brand through one of the first rapper-clothing line partnerships in hip hop, and famously shouted out the company while wearing one its hats in a Gap commercial in 1997.\r(Photo: Keith D. Bedford/imageDirect/Getty Images)
In His Lifetime\r  - Another feat in 1997, LL Cool J becomes the first rapper to ever win the MTV Video Music Awards Video Vanguard lifetime achievement Moon Man. This accolade is bestowed on those who have made a “profound impact on MTV culture.” With eight albums and countless fly videos, LL was definitely deserving. (Photo: Frank Micelotta/ImageDirect/Getty Images)Beef, Part 2 - In one of the greatest rap battles of all-time, LL Cool J took on newcomer Canibus, feeling slighted by Canibus's verse on "4, 3, 2, 1." After Canibus released the diss track "Second Round K.O.," LL dropped "The Ripper Is Back."(Photos: Getty Images)

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Phenomenal - When most rappers begin losing steam, LL, nearing his 30th birthday, releases Phenomenon, which includes a single he's produced with EPMD’s Erik Sermon for hardcore hip hop fans, “4, 3, 2, 1,” featuring Red Man and Method Man and introducing famous rappers DMX and Canibus to the world.\r(Photo: Def Jam Records)

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