Legendary rapper LL Cool J continues to evolve four decades after transforming the landscape of hip-hop music. The influential artist announced the upcoming vinyl re-release of two seminal albums from his catalog: "All World: Greatest Hits" and "Phenomenon," scheduled to arrive on April 11.
This strategic re-release coincides with significant milestones for both the artist and the genre. Hip-hop celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and LL Cool J marks 40 years since he first emerged on the music scene. The decorated performer boasts an impressive array of accolades, including induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, recognition as a Kennedy Center Honoree, an NAACP Image Award, and two Grammy Awards.
"These albums represent more than nostalgia—they showcase the foundation of a cultural movement," said an industry spokesperson familiar with the project. "The vinyl format offers contemporary audiences an authentic connection to these influential recordings."
Accompanying the announcement, LL Cool J debuted his first-ever music video for "Rock The Bells," his breakthrough 1985 single. Director Gregory Brunkalla captured the essence of modern New York City through striking black-and-white cinematography. The visual presentation features diverse groups throughout the metropolitan area—subway passengers, riverside gatherings, and street performance circles—all united by their passionate delivery of the iconic lyrics.
Music critics note that "Rock The Bells" maintains its relevance as a creative catalyst, inspiring subsequent generations of artists who continue to advance the hip-hop tradition. The video serves as a visual testimony to the enduring impact of LL Cool J's artistic contributions across multiple decades.
This strategic re-release coincides with significant milestones for both the artist and the genre. Hip-hop celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and LL Cool J marks 40 years since he first emerged on the music scene. The decorated performer boasts an impressive array of accolades, including induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, recognition as a Kennedy Center Honoree, an NAACP Image Award, and two Grammy Awards.
"These albums represent more than nostalgia—they showcase the foundation of a cultural movement," said an industry spokesperson familiar with the project. "The vinyl format offers contemporary audiences an authentic connection to these influential recordings."
Accompanying the announcement, LL Cool J debuted his first-ever music video for "Rock The Bells," his breakthrough 1985 single. Director Gregory Brunkalla captured the essence of modern New York City through striking black-and-white cinematography. The visual presentation features diverse groups throughout the metropolitan area—subway passengers, riverside gatherings, and street performance circles—all united by their passionate delivery of the iconic lyrics.
Music critics note that "Rock The Bells" maintains its relevance as a creative catalyst, inspiring subsequent generations of artists who continue to advance the hip-hop tradition. The video serves as a visual testimony to the enduring impact of LL Cool J's artistic contributions across multiple decades.
