LL Cool J

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Covers

Records

LL Cool J stands as a titan of hip-hop history, being one of the very few artists to achieve sustained success in both music and television. His induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2018 highlighted his profound impact beyond just performance, recognizing his songwriting prowess. With two Grammy wins and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, his career is a testament to longevity and adaptability in the entertainment industry.

AwardsLL Cool J has won two Grammy Awards for Best Rap Solo Performance, taking home the trophy in 1991 for "Mama Said Knock You Out" and again in 1996 for "Hey Lover." His accolades also include a Lifetime Achievement Award from BET in 2010, multiple NAACP Image Awards, and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2018. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2010 and was honored with the "Hip-Hop Icon" award at the MTV Video Music Awards in 2015.

Honours & Distinctions

Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction

Songwriters Hall of Fame·2018

Inducted for his significant contributions to songwriting in hip-hop and pop.

Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

Hollywood Chamber of Commerce·2010

Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his contributions to the recording industry.

BET Lifetime Achievement Award

BET·2010

Honored for his lasting impact on Black culture and the music industry.

Rankings & Lists

#12

The 50 Greatest Rappers of All Time

Rolling Stone·2010

#17

100 Greatest Hip-Hop Artists of All Time

Billboard·2015

#78

100 Greatest Artists of All Time

VH1·2010

Magazine Covers

Rolling Stone

1990-06

The Man Who Changed Rap Forever

Vibe

1995-11

Mr. Smith Era Celebration

Essence

2010-03

Dual Career Success

People

2026-09

NCIS: New York Return

Records & Feats

First Rapper at the White House

Historic First·1993

Performed for President Bill Clinton in 1993, marking a historic moment for hip-hop in political circles.

Longest Running NCIS Cast Member

Career Milestone·2010

Played Special Agent Sam Hanna across two series for over 15 years, becoming a staple of the franchise.