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.
Mentioned in this timeline
Eminem also known as Marshall Mathers III is a highly...
Jennifer Lopez or J Lo is a multifaceted American entertainer...
Barack Obama the th U S President - was the...
Sony is a Japanese multinational conglomerate based in Tokyo Its...
Queen Latifah born Dana Elaine Owens is a highly accomplished...
CNN Cable News Network is a multinational news organization founded...
Trending
42 minutes ago Spencer Knight expected to start; faces challenges, showcases skill with beautiful save.
43 minutes ago Jesse Plemons discusses 'Bugonia,' 'Hunger Games' prequel, and working with Cruise and Iñárritu.
43 minutes ago Cameron Crowe's 'The Uncool': A Cool Backstage Pass to Music History & Cringe
43 minutes ago Joe Rogan Describes Trump as 'Odd' After Receiving a Random Call From Him.
44 minutes ago Fran Lebowitz Discusses Politics, NYC Holidays, and Disdain for Hiking.
44 minutes ago Spotify Wrapped 2025 Reveals Top Artists, Including Kendrick Lamar; Paul George Misses Game.
Popular
Aftyn Alyssa Behn is an American politician currently serving as...
Matt and Ross Duffer known as the Duffer Brothers are...
Lane Kiffin is an American football coach currently serving as...
XXXTentacion born Jahseh Dwayne Ricardo Onfroy was a controversial yet...
William Franklin Graham III commonly known as Franklin Graham is...
Stranger Things created by the Duffer Brothers is a popular...