Just months after Q-Tip expressed skepticism about the existence of an “adult-contemporary hip-hop” category on social media, he has produced a new album for his Queens neighbor, LL Cool J. This marks the 56-year-old rapper-actor’s 14th album since his debut in 1984 as a teenager. The release comes in a year that has also seen new projects from Rakim and Masta Ace, as well as Common’s collaboration with producer Pete Rock on a nostalgia-infused album. LL’s new work fits into a musical trend, which Q-Tip referred to as “traditional hip-hop” in a tweet.
The album, titled FORCE, does not feature modern drill or trap influences, nor does it rely on vintage boom-bap beats. Nevertheless, after 39 years in the game, Q-Tip brings a contemporary edge to LL’s sound that appeals to fans eager to stream new music from the legendary rapper. The album showcases LL’s confident bravado in tracks like “Murdergram Deux,” featuring Eminem, as well as romantic tones in “Proclivities” and classic rap storytelling in “Spirit of Cyrus.”
Combining LL’s enduring charisma with Q-Tip’s production style—which has been integral to A Tribe Called Quest’s most memorable tracks—seems like a perfect match. While LL is now a married grandfather, he effortlessly intertwines sensual lyrics over a synth line reminiscent of Gary Numan in “Proclivities,” while engaging in playful banter with Saweetie about intimate themes. FORCE departs from a more mature tone, maintaining LL’s iconic persona from Farmers Boulevard, which adds to the album’s charm.
That said, LL also reflects on his history. The album’s lead single helped launch Def Jam in 1984, and LL pays homage to the label’s co-founders, Rick Rubin and Russell Simmons, in tracks like “Basquiat Energy” and “Runnit Back.” In “30 Decembers,” he nostalgically recalls the past with the line “this world ain’t like I remember.” Nas joins him on “Praise Him,” drawing attention to the iconic fashion from hip-hop’s golden age, such as sheepskin coats and Cazal eyewear.
The title FORCE stands for “frequencies of real creative energy,” and LL Cool J showcases his creativity most vividly in “Black Code Suite.” He embodies a wide array of African-American cultural references, declaring his identity with lines like “I’m the sound of Miles Davis, it’s impossible to bury me.” The album promises to celebrate black culture, featuring references to influential figures like Huey P. Newton and Jean-Michel Basquiat. If LL’s goal was to create a deeply rooted album that still appeals to the contemporary hip-hop scene, he has successfully achieved his mission.