Now, dolls, this is what I call a legendary guest!
Hip-hop icon, actor, and all-around entertainer LL COOL J stopped by The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and the two longtime friends had the audience laughing while taking a fabulous trip down memory lane!
From his early days in hip-hop to his exciting new Rock the Bells Las Vegas residency and his latest chapter in the NCISuniverse, LL COOL J had plenty to talk about.
And can we just say that this man continues to look amazing? He’s been entertaining us for decades, and he still has that signature confidence, charisma, and cool factor that made him a superstar!
I especially loved the stories about his early career because they reminded me that even the biggest legends had to start somewhere.
Let’s get into all the fun!
LL COOL J Reveals the Rap Names He Almost Used!
Before the world knew him as LL COOL J, whose stage name stands for Ladies Love Cool James, the entertainer was trying out a few other interesting names!
During his hilarious conversation with Jimmy Fallon, LL revealed that he experimented with several rap names before settling on the one that would become legendary.
Some of those early names included Deluxe, J-Ski, Shy Leagues, and Lord Supreme!
Now, can you imagine introducing one of hip-hop’s biggest stars as Lord Supreme? Lol!
LL explained that during the early days of rap, artists were experimenting with different identities, and there was no guarantee which names would become successful.
He joked that choosing a stage name was almost like taking a gamble because you never really knew how it would turn out.
Thankfully, LL COOL J stuck!
Jimmy also asked about his real name, James Todd Smith, and why people close to him often call him Todd.
LL explained that he appreciates being treated like a regular person instead of having everyone constantly address him as his celebrity persona.
I thought that was such an interesting little detail!
Even after decades of fame, there’s something refreshing about wanting to keep things simple.
LL COOL J Announces His Rock the Bells Las Vegas Residency!
Now, here’s some exciting news for all my old-school hip-hop lovers!
LL COOL J revealed that he’s bringing Rock the Bells to Las Vegas for a special residency at Park MGM!
And from the way he described it, this won’t be your ordinary concert experience.
The hip-hop legend is planning an energetic celebration featuring music, DJs, dancing, and performances that represent different generations and styles.
He explained that the residency will incorporate his own music alongside music from other artists, creating a larger celebration of hip-hop culture.
His goal is to deliver a world-class entertainment experience unlike anything audiences have seen before.
Now, that sounds like a party!
I love the idea of celebrating hip-hop’s history while introducing its incredible legacy to younger generations.
Just imagine the music, the fashion, the dancing, and all that nostalgia in one fabulous Las Vegas experience!
And you already know Vegas is the perfect place for a little glitz and glamour!
Jimmy Fallon Surprises LL COOL J With Rare Footage From 1985!
One of my favorite moments from the interview came when Jimmy pulled out a surprise from LL’s early career.
We’re talking all the way back to 1985, before the release of his debut album, Radio!
Jimmy showed footage of a young LL COOL J performing at Colby College in Maine.
According to LL, the performance was an early introduction to hip-hop for an audience that wasn’t quite sure what to expect.
He recalled having to explain how his DJ would scratch records on the turntables while he performed human beatboxing and rapped.
Can you imagine?
Today, hip-hop is celebrated around the world, but back then, audiences in some places were still being introduced to the art form.
The vintage footage showed a young, enthusiastic LL working hard to engage the crowd, even encouraging audience members to raise their hands.
Jimmy couldn’t resist teasing him about the audience’s reactions!
It was such a funny and nostalgic moment.
But what stood out to me was LL’s confidence.
Even as a young performer in an unfamiliar environment, he was determined to share his music and connect with people.
And look where that determination took him!
LL COOL J Talks NCIS: New York and Returning to His Hometown!
The conversation also turned to LL COOL J’s television career and his role as Sam Hanna in NCIS: New York.
After portraying the character for nearly two decades across the franchise, LL discussed bringing Sam into a grittier, more character-driven setting.
He explained that the New York backdrop adds a different kind of energy to the series.
And for someone who grew up in Queens, returning to his hometown makes the experience even more meaningful.
LL described the show’s approach as more focused on the people behind the investigations, exploring their personalities, backgrounds, and relationships rather than concentrating only on solving crimes.
He also praised the creative team and discussed working with fellow actor Scott Caan.
One detail I found particularly interesting was his description of a scene filmed on Farmers Boulevard in Queens, with music from legendary hip-hop group Mobb Deep playing in the background.
Now, that’s a New York moment!
LL explained that the city’s diversity provides a rich setting for storytelling because so many different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences exist within its neighborhoods.
Jimmy also shared a clip from the series featuring LL and Scott Caan reflecting on the past while walking through a familiar New York neighborhood.
It was a meaningful reminder of how far LL has come since his early days growing up in Queens.
Tami’s Take: LL COOL J Is Proof That Staying Power Never Goes Out of Style!
Okay, dolls, I absolutely loved this interview!
There’s something so special about watching an entertainer who has been in the industry for decades continue to reinvent himself while remaining true to his roots.
LL COOL J has accomplished so much in music, television, and entertainment, yet he still seems genuinely excited about what’s next.
And I love that!
Having worked in entertainment and media for many years myself, I appreciate hearing stories about the journey behind the success.
That old footage from 1985 really made me smile because it showed the determination and courage it takes to believe in your talent before the rest of the world catches on.
And let’s talk about those early rap names!
I don’t know about you, but I think LL COOL J was definitely the right choice! Lol!
I’m also excited about the Rock the Bells residency because I love a good throwback music experience.
There’s nothing like hearing songs that take you right back to a special time in your life, especially when they’re performed by the artists who made them famous.
And of course, I have to give LL his flowers for continuing to evolve.
From pioneering hip-hop to starring in television dramas and creating new entertainment experiences, he’s showing that longevity comes from passion, creativity, and a willingness to keep growing.
Now that’s what I call legendary!
So tell me, dolls, what’s your favorite LL COOL J song? And would you travel to Las Vegas to experience his Rock the Bells residency?
