LL Cool J’s recent revelation of his Mount Rushmore of Def Jam artists has caused quite a stir in the Hip Hop community. While many fans and critics were expecting names like JAY-Z, Kanye West, and DMX to be included in the list, LL Cool J took a different approach by highlighting the label’s early pioneers.
In a recent interview on Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay podcast, LL Cool J made a strong case for his inclusion in the Mount Rushmore of Def Jam artists, citing his historical significance as the label’s first artist. However, when asked to name his top four acts on the iconic Hip Hop label, LL Cool J surprised many by overlooking some of the biggest names in the industry.
Instead of selecting modern-day superstars like JAY-Z and Kanye West, LL Cool J went back to Def Jam’s roots and chose legends from the label’s early period. His Mount Rushmore of Def Jam artists includes himself, Public Enemy, the Beastie Boys, and Slick Rick. While these artists undoubtedly played a crucial role in shaping the label’s legacy, the absence of JAY-Z, Kanye West, and DMX raised eyebrows among fans and critics alike.
When questioned about his decision to snub JAY-Z, LL Cool J pointed out that the rapper joined Def Jam “a thousand years later” than him, suggesting that his focus was on the label’s original pioneers. This statement further fueled speculation about the relationship between the two legendary artists, especially considering JAY-Z’s past snub of LL Cool J.
In a 2022 interview with Big Boy, JAY-Z revealed that he had never invited LL Cool J to his annual Roc Nation Brunch, hinting at a possible rift between the two artists. While the exact nature of their relationship remains unclear, LL Cool J’s recent omission of JAY-Z from his Mount Rushmore of Def Jam artists adds another layer of intrigue to their dynamic.
Overall, LL Cool J’s unconventional Mount Rushmore selection has sparked a debate among fans and critics about the most influential artists in Def Jam’s history. While some may argue that modern-day stars like JAY-Z and Kanye West deserve a spot on the list, LL Cool J’s focus on the label’s early pioneers offers a unique perspective on the evolution of Hip Hop and the enduring legacy of Def Jam Records.
