Born James Todd Smith on Long Island, New York, on January 14, 1968, LL Cool J is a nickname that stands for “Ladies Love Cool James.” LL Cool J signed to fledgling hip-hop label Def Jam Records in 1984. After a string of hits—included on albums like Bigger and Deffer, Walking with a Panther, Mama Said Knock You Out, 14 Shots to the Dome, Mr. Smith—LL turned to acting, appearing in movies like B.A.P.S., Halloween H2O and Any Given Sunday.
He has released thirteen studio albums and two greatest hits compilations, including 2008’s Exit 13, the last for his record deal with Def Jam Recordings. His latest album, Authentic, was released on April 30, 2013 and currently stars as NCIS Special.