LL Cool J Slams Obsessed Rappers Who Only Rap About Money
LL Cool J, the legendary rapper and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, has taken aim at modern hip-hop artists whose lyrical focus seems exclusively on their financial status.
In a candid interview with Baller Alert, LL Cool J expressed his frustration with rappers who continuously emphasize their wealth, suggesting that their music lacks depth and variety.
During the interview, LL Cool J highlighted his dissatisfaction with the trend of rappers who, after years in the industry, still fixate on discussing their financial achievements.
"[When] a rapper comes out, and he's talking that money talk, you love it, But 12 years later, he's still talking that money talk, and now you're looking at him like, 'Dude, do you have anything else to talk about?'"
Watch: LL Cool J Slams Rappers Who Only Rap About Money
LL Cool J on artists who only talk about how rich they are in their songs:
— Joey (@gothamhiphop) July 27, 2024
“Do you have anything else to talk about?…You know why [we all] know Bob Marley? Because he talked about something. Because he had something to say…The wallet can’t un-corny you.” pic.twitter.com/LhHbLtR3Lo
The Queens native drew a comparison between contemporary rappers and iconic figures like Bob Marley, whose impact extends beyond material wealth.
LL Cool J praised Marley for his profound influence and timeless music, emphasizing that Marley's success was defined by his contributions to music and culture rather than his bank account.
LL Cool J remarked about Marley:
"He talked about something, He had something to say. And guess what? You don't care what Bob Marley had in the bank. Because that's not the metric for success. It's not the metric for cultural success. Bob Marley did not have to be rich. He was rich in what he did and what he created and what he put in the world. That shit matters."
LL Cool J’s critique was not just a rant but also a call to action for emerging artists.
He emphasized that the pursuit of financial success alone does not define one's worth or impact.
Instead, he encouraged struggling artists to stay true to their creative vision and to embrace the challenges that come with the journey.
"The wallet can’t un-corny you," LL Cool J concluded, driving home his point. "To be a true winner, you need to be prepared to face the possibility of failure and stay dedicated to your craft."Despite his criticism of some current trends in hip-hop, LL Cool J remained supportive of aspiring artists. He offered motivational advice, urging them to stay focused on their goals and be open to opportunities.
“You can do anything you put your mind to, Be open to receiving what you want and go for it wholeheartedly. And remember, to be a winner, you have to be comfortable with the idea that you might lose.”
This discussion underscores LL Cool J’s belief that the essence of a successful artist lies in their creative contributions rather than their financial status.
His insights reflect a desire for a more meaningful and diverse approach within the hip-hop industry.