LL Cool J is unquestionably one of the greatest rappers in hip-hop history, having been given the now-iconic abbreviation G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time).
But this legendary rapper has a bold perspective on the Goat team.
The Goat conversations have been among the most important components of the lifeblood of hip-hop, and they trace back to one of the culture’s most impactful and pioneering careers.
However, in recent times, the Goat conversations have gained a new level of popularity and have been a yardstick for some recent industry beefs.
Even though LL Cool J recognizes the term’s cultural significance, he does not consider himself to be the unquestioned best in rap.
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Instead, he thinks that he is one of the most significant rappers in history, which is an even more meaningful title.
LL Cool J recently made an appearance on Apple Music’s Le Code to argue why he’s the most important rapper in the genre’s history.
In the conversation, the legendary rapper reflected on his legacy with both humility and conviction.
He began by stating: “I’ma say this humbly, but I really mean this.”
“One day, people are going to realize that LL Cool J is the most important rapper that ever existed. I truly believe that one day people are going to say that. They’re gonna say when it comes to Fubu, ‘Yo, this guy introduced the whole idea of putting clothing lines”.
His confidence stems from the groundbreaking contributions he’s made across music, fashion, and entertainment.
LL Cool J continues by saying, “When it comes to endorsements, ‘Oh, this is the guy who made Kangol and made the Kangol popular before people even did that.
When they talk about television, they gon’ say, ‘Oh, this is the guy who did incredible stuff on TV and at the same time was still making incredible records.’
It wasn’t just doing TV and using rap as a launch pad. When it comes to business… I could go on and on and on and on.”
LL Cool J has always referred to himself as the Goat in his music.
In his album G.O.A.T. featuring James T. Smith: The Greatest of All Time, LL insists his claims were part of the competitive spirit of hip-hop.
On the mic, I’ll say I’m the best. That’s what MCs do,” he said.
“But outside of that, there are so many rappers who’ve done extraordinary things. I’d never claim to be the one above all.”
LL was Def Jam’s first official artist and the first solo rapper to achieve global superstardom.
For LL Cool J, his legacy isn’t about overshadowing others. It’s about being a trailblazer who changed hip-hop’s course and opened doors for the generations that followed.
Despite his accomplishments, LL Cool J remains humble about the subjective nature of greatness in hip-hop.
