This weekend marks one for the history books as LL Cool J becomes the first Hip-Hop recording artist to become a Kennedy Center Honors recipient alongside honorees that include Lionel Richie, Norman Lear, Gloria Estefan, and dancer Carmen de Lavallade.
This marks only the latest in a steady stream of accolades and accomplishments for the seasoned LL. Since first debuting in 1985 with his Radio studio album, LL Cool J has enjoyed the fruits of seven multi-platinum albums, three gold albums, two Grammy awards, all while building up a solid resume in front of the camera, making a household name for himself. Since 2012, he's served as the master of ceremonies at the annual Grammy Awards, and even locking in an induction into the 2018 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
"I believe that we are built to do anything we put our minds and proper actions to," the veteran emcee, born James Todd Smith, penned in an Instagram caption that accompanied a few shots of moments of the evening. 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!!"
The broadcast of the 40th annual Kennedy Center Honors will air on Dec. 26, at 9 p.m. EST on CBS.