Months after Q-Tip questioned the validity of an “adult-contemporary hip-hop” category on social media, LL Cool J, his neighbor from Queens, releases a new album produced entirely by Q-Tip. This marks LL’s 14th album since his debut in 1984. In a year where fellow rap legends Rakim and Masta Ace also put out new projects, and Common collaborated with Pete Rock for a nostalgic hip-hop album, LL’s release contributes to this trend. Q-Tip referred to it as “traditional hip-hop.”
The album titled FORCE does not adopt current drill or trap sounds, nor does it feature classic boom-bap beats. However, LL Cool J, who has been in the rap game for nearly four decades, receives a modern update from Q-Tip, appealing to listeners eager for a fresh LL project. The album includes confident tracks like “Murdergram Deux” featuring Eminem, romantic vibes in “Proclivities,” and engaging storytelling in “Spirit of Cyrus.”
Pairing LL, known for his sensual hits like “Doin’ It,” with Q-Tip, famed for A Tribe Called Quest’s classics, seems fitting. In 2024, LL is now a married grandfather, yet he smoothly delivers seductive lyrics over nostalgic synths in “Proclivities,” and even flirts with Saweetie while remaining the charismatic figure he’s always been. The FORCE is not a mature reflection akin to Jay-Z’s 4:44; instead, LL continues to embody the superhero persona he has been throughout his career.
The veteran rapper also reflects on his past, acknowledging his role in the birth of Def Jam in 1984 by mentioning co-founders Rick Rubin and Russell Simmons in tracks “Basquiat Energy” and “Runnit Back.” In “30 Decembers,” he nostalgically notes the changes in the world since 1994, lamenting that “this world ain’t like I remember.” Guest artist Nas contributes to the spiritual track “Praise Him,” evoking golden-age hip-hop culture with references to sheepskin coats and Cazal sunglasses.
FORCE stands for “frequencies of real creative energy,” and LL showcases his creativity in “Black Code Suite.” He highlights various aspects of African-American culture and identity, describing himself as the sound of Miles Davis and emphasizing his uniqueness. The album features references to figures like Huey P. Newton and Jean-Michel Basquiat, achieving LL’s goal of celebrating his heritage while navigating the pop-influenced hip-hop landscape.