LL Cool J Becomes First Hip-Hop Artist To Receive Kennedy Center Honor

photo credit: Pool l Getty Images

Announced back in October that LL Cool J was the only rapper to receive a 2018 Rock Hall of Fame nomination, LL has now become the first rapper to earn a Kennedy Center Honor.

The prestigious honor is awarded to recognize artists with a lifetime of contributions to American culture. LL was one of the first rappers to push rap and hip-hop culture in to mainstream nearly 32-years after making his debut.

Speaking on the occasion and the night’s ceremony over the weekend, LL took to his Instagram where he wrote:

I believe that we are built to do anything we put our minds and proper actions to. You have all the tools inside you that are required for you to fulfill your GOD given purpose.

LL was also congratulated by fellow hip-hop pioneer Ice Cube who shouted out LL on Twitter saying, ‘Congrats to the homie LL. Raps first solo superstar and trailblazer…’

 

I believe that we are built to do anything we put our minds and proper actions to. You have all the tools inside you that are required for you to fulfill your GOD given purpose. This one is for those who came before me and those who followed me. We were sent to this planet to love and inspire one another. Manifest our dreams and make them a reality. I hope you’re inspired by me because I’m absolutely Inspired by you. Mic check 1212 Let’s ride!! #KCHonors #StateDepartmentDinner #hiphop

A post shared by LLCOOLJ (@llcoolj) on Dec 2, 2017 at 11:35pm PST