LL Cool J is certainly a name that comes to mind when it comes to legendary rappers. LL has not only made his mark in the music industry but also found success as an actor and entrepreneur. In this article, I discuss LL Cool J net worth in 2023, his early life, and how he has amassed his money.
Early Life and Career
A Rapper Is Born in Queens
LL Cool J was born James Todd Smith on January 14, 1968, in Bay Shore, Long Island. However, he grew up in St. Albans, Queens – a neighborhood known for producing many influential hip-hop artists. Despite being born to a mother who suffered from schizophrenia and a father who shot himself when LL Cool J was just four years old, he managed to find solace in music.
Becoming the “Ladies Love” Cool J
In 1984, at age 16, LL Cool J released his debut album “Radio.” LL became an instant sensation with hits like “I Can’t Live Without My Radio” and “Rock the Bells.” His sophomore album “Bigger and Deffer” (or BAD) gave rise to one of his most famous monikers: “Ladies Love” Cool J. LL continued to release hit albums throughout the 80s and 90s including “Walking with a Panther,” “Mama Said Knock You Out,” and “Mr. Smith.” Cool J’s lyrical prowess combined with his charming persona made him a fan favorite – especially among women.
Breaking the Barriers as an Early Rap Artist
As one of the pioneers of hip-hop music, LL Cool J broke down many barriers during his career. LL Cool also became the first hip-hop artist to earn a Grammy award for Best Rap Solo Performance in 1991 for his iconic hit single “Mama Said Knock You Out”. He has since been recognized as one of the greatest MCs of all time by publications like Rolling Stone Magazine and The Source. However, these early beginnings have significantly contributed to LL Cool J net worth today.
Acting Career Achievements
From Hip-Hop to Hollywood
LL Cool J’s transition from music to acting wasn’t easy, but his talent and hard work paid off. He started with small roles in movies like “Krush Groove” and “Wildcats,” but soon landed more prominent roles.
One of his most notable performances was in the 1999 movie “Deep Blue Sea,” where he played the character of Preacher. LL Cool’s role as an underwater chef was highly praised by critics and fans alike, adding another feather to his cap.
NCIS: Los Angeles
LL Cool J’s ongoing role as Special Agent Sam Hanna in the hit TV show “NCIS: Los Angeles” has garnered him even more attention. He has been a regular cast member since the show first aired in 2009, and continues to be a fan favorite for his dynamic portrayal of a highly skilled undercover agent.
Award-Winning Performances
LL Cool J’s acting prowess has not gone unnoticed by industry peers either. In 2017, LL won the Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series for his work on “NCIS: Los Angeles.” LL Cool has also been nominated for several other awards throughout his career, including a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. Overall, LL Cool J’s success as an actor is undeniable. LL Cool J has proven himself time and again as an accomplished performer both on screen and on stage.
LL Cool J Net Worth
According to Celebrity Net Worth, LL Cool J net worth has a net worth of $120 million.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
The Todd Smith Collection: A Fashion Statement for the People
LL Cool J has always been known for his fashion sense, and in 2008 he launched his clothing line, the Todd Smith Collection. The collection features a range of clothing styles for both men and women, including graphic tees, jeans, hoodies, and jackets.
The brand is named after LL Cool J’s birth name (James Todd Smith) and is designed to be affordable for everyone. One standout piece from the collection is the “Authentic Hip Hop” jacket.
The jacket features an embroidered boombox on the back and pays homage to LL Cool J’s roots in hip-hop. The clothing line has been successful in stores across North America and online.
Other Business Ventures
LL Cool J isn’t just about music and fashion – he’s also involved in a range of other business ventures. He co-founded Boomdizzle, a music collaboration platform that allows musicians to create songs together online without needing to be in the same room.
He also has a production company called Rock The Bells Productions which produces content across various mediums such as television shows and movies. In addition to those ventures LL Cool J has also invested in technology start-ups; appearing on Shark Tank as a guest shark several times. All these different business ventures have helped contribute substantially towards LL Cool J net worth over the years.
Conclusion
LL Cool J has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. As a rapper, he paved the way for future generations of hip-hop artists with his innovative beats and clever rhymes. However, LL Cool J net worth is approximately $120 million.
