LL Cool J reveals why he’ll never release his secret Michael Jackson collaboration
LL Cool J is a well-respected figure within hip-hop. The impact made when he first surfaced in the 1980s was previously unfathomable, and he has been recognised for his contribution to the culture ever since.
From ‘Rock The Bells’ to ‘Mama Said Knock You Out,’ the emcee (real name James Smith) made hits that have stood the test of time and, as such, in 2021, the lyricist was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame for his exceptional feats, incredible accomplishments and success across entertainment and business.
However, few know that, in his early days, LL Cool J had a good relationship with the late ‘King of Pop’, Michael Jackson. The rapper even recorded songs with Jackson. However, in a recent interview with KIIS FM, he explained why he would never release the collaborations.
Speaking about why he has decided to keep the multiple tracks in the vault, the Queens emcee explained, “They weren’t good enough. We definitely made songs together. We made music together. One of them leaked a while ago; it was called ‘Serious Effect.’ That was one. But there was some other stuff, and it just didn’t get there.”
The ‘Rock The Bells’ icon detailed how he needs his music to be at a certain level and that some of the tracks he made with Jackson didn’t reach it, adding, “Sometimes the art don’t get there. It just doesn’t get there … Being able to hang out with Mike and work with Mike and be in the studio with him, it was dope.”
LL Cool J then proceeded to tell some stories about working with the late King of Pop. He began, “There are so many stories. It’s so hilarious, bro.” He then recalled one specific moment, remembering, “We in the studio and he’s sitting on top of the piano. I’m sitting at the piano, and we’re talking.”
He continued, “I’m like, ‘How’d y’all do that thing with ‘Smooth Criminal’ where you lean in like that? How’d you do that, how’d you lean forward?’ He said, ‘Well, we brought in a shaman and had a big ceremony and we burned candles and incense and did a whole big ritual.’ I said, ‘Really, Mike?’ He said, ‘No, silly.'”
This recent KIIS FM radio show isn’t the first time LL Cool J has reflected on his days with MJ. In an interview with Complex earlier this year, the Bigger And Deffer artist spoke highly of the vocalist and their work, stating, “Me and Michael Jackson went to the studio man. Mike showed a lot of love to me in general, and definitely to hip-hop. Let’s be clear: For me, he’s the king. I’m a Michael Jackson fan, B. His talent speaks for itself.”