LL COOL J Unveils Details on New Album ‘THE FORCE’ and Hints at Future Biopic (Exclusive)
LL COOL J is making a major comeback with his first album in over a decade. The rapper, whose last album was released 11 years ago, is gearing up to drop his 14th studio album, THE FORCE, on September 6, 2024. In an exclusive interview with ET at the album’s listening party, the iconic rapper shared insights into his long-awaited project.
“I’m thrilled for fans to experience what Q-Tip and I have been working on,” LL COOL J, 56, told ET. “It’s been a long time coming since I released an album that truly impacted the culture. Instead of just talking about what hip-hop should be, I decided to create music that showcases my vision of the genre in 2024.”
The album’s title, THE FORCE, stands for “Frequencies of Real Creative Energy.” LL COOL J teased that the album features a variety of collaborations, reflecting diverse creative influences. The project covers a range of themes, from societal issues and racial division to the rapper’s personal experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This album isn’t just about deep topics; it also brings a lot of fun and energy,” LL COOL J explained. “It’s a mix of light-hearted moments and more profound reflections, aiming to offer something for everyone.”
Reflecting on his career, LL COOL J acknowledged his evolving perspective on music and his role as an artist. “As you mature, your focus shifts. I now see my role as helping others, not just promoting myself,” he said. This mindset has led him to establish Rock the Bells, a company dedicated to celebrating and preserving hip-hop culture.
LL COOL J also reminisced about the recent 50th-anniversary hip-hop tribute at the 2023 GRAMMYs, expressing pride in the high-profile showcase that celebrated the genre’s rich history. He noted that the event’s grandeur contrasted with how hip-hop has often been represented in the past.
As for his potential future projects, LL COOL J admitted he has mixed feelings about a biopic. “While I’m open to the idea, it doesn’t excite me much at the moment,” he confessed. Instead, he is focused on promoting THE FORCE and hinted at a possible tour. “I’m definitely planning to hit the road. I want fans to experience the album live and feel its energy.”
LL COOL J’s THE FORCE is set to hit shelves on September 6, 2024, marking a significant moment in his illustrious career.
