LL COOL J has boldly staked his claim as the “most important rapper” of all time, while humbly sidestepping the coveted G.O.A.T. title… despite being the artist who coined the phrase.
In a recent episode of Apple Music’s Le Code, released on Thursday (November 28), the legendary rapper detailed why he believes his contributions to hip-hop stand unmatched.
Reflecting on his trailblazing career, LL COOL J explained his impact on multiple aspects of hip-hop culture.
“I’ma say this humbly, but I truly mean it,” he began. “One day, people are going to wake up and realize that LL COOL J is the most important rapper that ever existed. They’re gonna look back and see I was the guy who introduced the diamonds, the ice, the champagne culture.
When it comes to love songs, I was the first to bring that into the mix. I brought the bad boy vibe, the rebellious energy. Even the term ‘G.O.A.T.’… that was me.”
LL didn’t stop there. He highlighted his pivotal role as Def Jam’s first solo artist and how he set the precedent for global rap tours. “They’re gonna say, ‘This is the first solo artist to take hip-hop around the world.’”
The rapper-turned-business mogul also touched on his influence beyond music, from fashion to endorsements and television.
“I made Kangol hats iconic. I paved the way for brands like FUBU by rocking Troop and showing what’s possible with hip-hop and fashion. On TV, I did incredible work while still making records,” he shared. “I didn’t just use rap as a launch pad… I elevated both at the same time. In business and culture, I’ve done it all.”
Although he’s confident in his historical significance, LL COOL J clarified why he avoids calling himself the greatest rapper of all time.
“That’s subjective,” he explained. “For some, 2Pac’s music changed their life. For others, it might be Snoop, Biggie, or Nas. Each of those artists deserves their flowers.”
While LL embraces the G.O.A.T. title in his music, he sees it as part of his artistry. “On a record, of course, I’ll call myself the G.O.A.T. But outside the mic, I respect the contributions of so many other rappers. Hip-hop is too big for one person to own that title.”
From pioneering cultural trends to shaping hip-hop’s global presence, LL COOL J’s career speaks for itself. While he may not claim to be the greatest, his influence undeniably cements his place as one of the most important figures in rap history.
