With all four of his children now grown and moved out—Nina, 23; Samaria, 27; Italia, 32, and Najee, 33—LL Cool J is focusing more on his career. As an empty nester, he reflects on the importance of encouraging his kids to chase their dreams. They have to go after their dreams, LL Cool J said in a recent interview, highlighting the pride he feels as his children carve their own paths in life.
LL Cool J: A Legacy Beyond Music
James Todd Smith, better known as LL Cool J, has been a cornerstone of the hip-hop world since the mid-1980s. With nine consecutive multi-platinum albums, he became one of the first rappers to achieve mainstream success while maintaining authenticity. Beyond music, LL Cool J ventured into acting, starring in popular TV shows like In The House and currently appearing in NCIS: Los Angeles. His influence extends beyond entertainment, as he uses his platform to promote education and family values.
A Family Man at Heart
Despite his fame, LL Cool J remains deeply committed to his family. He shares four children with his wife Simone I. Smith: Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith (34), Italia Anita Maria Smith (32), Samaria Smith (27), and Nina-Symone Smith (23). Recently becoming a grandfather, LL Cool J continues to prioritize family above all else. In interviews, he emphasizes teaching his kids the value of hard work and staying grounded, even amidst the glitz of Hollywood.
Spoiling a child is like stealing someone's soul, LL Cool J once remarked, revealing his philosophy on parenting. By instilling discipline and responsibility in his children, he hopes they will grow into well-rounded adults capable of achieving greatness on their own terms.
From Hip-Hop Pioneer to Children's Author
In addition to his musical and acting endeavors, LL Cool J has also made strides as a children's author. Through books such as And the Winner Is, he imparts valuable lessons about sportsmanship, perseverance, and respect. These stories often feature young basketball players learning how to win and lose gracefully, reinforcing positive messages for younger audiences. Each book includes an original CD recording, allowing readers to engage with the material through both literature and music.
This dual approach aligns perfectly with LL Cool J's vision of making reading—and rap—accessible and enjoyable for everyone. As he puts it, Hip-hop is poetry for a new generation. By blending education with entertainment, LL Cool J bridges gaps between art forms, inspiring future generations to embrace creativity and knowledge alike.
An Iconic Figure in Popular Culture
For many fans, LL Cool J represents much more than just music or television; he embodies resilience, integrity, and authenticity. From his early days as a trailblazer in the hip-hop scene to his current status as a respected actor and author, LL Cool J consistently demonstrates what it means to stay true to oneself while adapting to changing times.
As a white kid growing up in the '80s, I wasn't always sure whether I was supposed to enjoy hip-hop. But when the Beastie Boys emerged and began touring alongside other legendary acts, everything changed. Their collaboration opened doors for countless artists, including myself, proving that passion transcends boundaries. Today, LL Cool J stands tall as a symbol of unity within the industry—a reminder that art can unite people from all walks of life.
Personal Reflections and Gratitude
In a heartfelt social media post dated November 30, 2021, LL Cool J expressed gratitude toward those who supported him during challenging times. After stepping out of recovery, he encountered an unexpected visitor: another iconic figure in the world of hip-hop. This encounter left a lasting impact, elevating his healing journey in ways traditional medicine couldn't match.
Maybe you've heard of him??? 😂😂😂 Ladies and gentlemen, the man, the myth, the legend... Mr. G.O.A.T. himself! wrote LL Cool J, celebrating not only his own triumphs but also acknowledging the power of camaraderie within the artistic community. With hashtags like #KangolKid, #MamaSaidKnockYouOut, and #FuckCancer, he reinforced themes of solidarity and determination.
The World According to LL Cool J
Throughout his storied career, LL Cool J has remained steadfast in promoting positivity and empowerment. Whether addressing issues related to race, gender, or socioeconomic status, his message resonates across generations. For millions around the world, LL Cool J serves as both mentor and inspiration—a testament to the transformative potential of art.
As we look ahead, it’s clear that LL Cool J’s legacy will endure long after his final bow. Through his music, performances, writings, and personal example, he continues shaping conversations about identity, culture, and humanity itself. And perhaps most importantly, he reminds us all to cherish our families, pursue our passions, and never stop striving for excellence.
