LL Cool J's Success and Achievements in Timeline
A closer look at the biggest achievements of LL Cool J. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.
James Todd Smith, known as LL Cool J, is a highly influential American rapper and actor. He achieved mainstream commercial success early in his career, marking him as a pioneer alongside contemporaries like Beastie Boys and Run-DMC. LL Cool J's contributions have cemented his place in hip-hop history and popular culture.
1992: Grammy Award Win
In 1992, LL Cool J won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance for the title track of Mama Said Knock You Out.
2004: Simone Johnson-Smith cancer-free
Simone Johnson-Smith was cancer-free as of 2004 after being diagnosed with chondrosarcoma.
2010: VH1's 100 Greatest Artists Of All Time
In 2010, VH1 placed LL Cool J on their "100 Greatest Artists Of All Time" list, recognizing his significant impact on music.
February 12, 2012: First Grammy Awards hosting
On February 12, 2012, LL Cool J hosted the Grammy Awards Show for the first time at the 54th Grammy Awards.
October 16, 2013: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nomination
On October 16, 2013, LL Cool J was announced as a nominee for inclusion in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
2013: Teen Choice Award for NCIS: Los Angeles
In 2013, LL Cool J received a Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actor: Action for his work on NCIS: Los Angeles.
January 21, 2016: Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
On January 21, 2016, LL Cool J received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
February 15, 2016: Final Grammy Awards hosting
On February 15, 2016, LL Cool J hosted the Grammy Awards Show for the 58th time, marking his fifth consecutive year hosting the show.
2017: Kennedy Center Honors
In 2017, LL Cool J became the first rapper to receive Kennedy Center Honors.
October 2018: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nomination
In October 2018, LL Cool J was nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
2021: Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 2021, LL Cool J was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the Musical Excellence category, solidifying his legacy in music history.
2021: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction
In 2021, LL Cool J was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with an award for Musical Excellence.
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