Veteran rapper LL Cool J has re-signed with Def
Jam Records, it was announced today by Def Jam Founder Russell Simmons and Chairman
Lyor Cohen.
LL, who has been with the label since it was
founded by Rick Rubin and Simmons in the early 80’s, had been shopping other
deals asking for a purported $20 million dollars.
"When LL Cool J put out his first single
on the independent record label Def Jam, the whole hip-hop movement was viewed
as a passing trend that many said would sell a few records, but would never
succeed in the long run, Simmons said.
"LL Cool J is a shining example of the longevity
and power of hiphop In fact, he is the embodiment of hiphop He is one of the
architects of the Def Jam culture. I am privileged to work with a man who is
both a pioneer and a legend."
LL, who has sold over 20 million records for
Def Jam, said that he was proud to re-sign with the label.
"We paved the way for an entire Hip Hop
community and I am blessed to continue to call Def Jam my home."
"The entire Island Def Jam family is thrilled
to have the opportunity to continue working with such a visionary and charismatic
talent as LL Cool J," Cohen added. "There simply would be no Def in
Def Jam without him."
