By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Despite being the founding artist of Def Jam, LL Cool J found himself being treated like a stranger when he began working on his Exit 13 album. Initially, LL Cool J planned to release the album in 2006 under the name Todd Smith, Pt. 2. However, LL Cool J faced constant delays on this album, blaming Jay-Z.
Jay-Z took over as the head of Def Jam in 2004 and the label shifted their focus, which angered the veterans on the label, especially LL Cool J. There had never been a direct relationship between Jay-Z and LL Cool J. While Jay-Z never directly talked about LL Cool J, LL certainly had much to say about him and Exit 13 became his exit from the rap game.
Currently, LL Cool J is preparing for the release of his next album, Authentic Hip Hop, but he will be having Grammy duties first. Last year, LL Cool J hosted the Grammys, doing several commercials with Nicki Minaj. This year, LL Cool J will be hosting the 55th Annual Grammy Awards and he talked about this and fighting the burglar in his home with Big Boy’s Neighborhood, since he is in Los Angeles for the show.
Watch the entire interview below:
