LL COOL J, the Grammy award-winning rapper-actor-author, is set to release his first album in 11 years titled “The FORCE” in September during his 40th year in the hip-hop industry. Despite not releasing new music for over a decade, LL COOL J remained active in the studio. However, a new wave of inspiration hit him in recent years, leading him to collaborate with a producer seriously. Yet, feeling dissatisfied with his writing, a dream featuring the late Phife Dawg of A Tribe Called Quest pushed him to reach out to Q-Tip of the same group. Q-Tip took on the production of every track for “The FORCE,” set for release on September 16th.
Describing the making of his 14th studio album as a process akin to relearning how to rap, LL COOL J focused on authenticity and meaningful lyrics, providing substance over superficiality. Instead of chasing trends or replicating his past work, he aimed to elevate his craft, inspired by sports icons who continuously strive for improvement.
“The FORCE” encompasses various themes, from self-motivation to swag, sensual lyrics, and cautionary tales. The album’s lead single, “Saturday Night Special,” featuring Rick Ross and Fat Joe, exemplifies LL COOL J’s diverse storytelling. Noteworthy tracks include “Huey in the Chair,” and “Basquiat Energy,” celebrating personal truths and artistic innovation.
With “The FORCE” standing for “frequencies of real creative energy,” LL COOL J intends to present an album vibrating at a high level. Reflecting on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop in the previous year, he aimed to showcase that seasoned artists can make modern impacts in the genre. The album, rich in features including Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Nas, and Busta Rhymes, is designed to meet listeners where LL COOL J stands today artistically, without coming off as preachy or didactic.
