James Todd Smith, known professionally as LL Cool J, is an American rapper/actor. Smith is one of the earliest rappers to achieve commercial success, alongside fellow new school hip hop acts Beastie Boys and Run-DMC. Signed to Def Jam Recordings in 1984, Smith’s breakthrough came with his single “I Need A Beat” and his landmark debut album, “Radio.” Since that time, Smith has released thirteen studio albums. He has also worked as an actor, having appeared in such films as “Krush Groove”, “Wildcats”, and “The Hard Way” among others. His latest effort is “Saturday Night Special”, a collaboration with fellow rappers Rick Ross and Fat Joe.