Two of the most storied rappers in the history of music are up for Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame induction this year. LL COOL J and Jay-Z are among the nominees who could be inducted into the Hall in 2021's class. Of course, both of these artists' legacies are as storied as they are iconic.
LL COOL J has one of the most enviable careers in, not just Hip-Hop, but popular music overall. He's been an icon of Hip-Hop music and culture for more than 35 years, with hits ranging from "I Need Love" and "Loungin'" to battle rap showcases like "Jack The Ripper" and "4, 3, 2, 1." LL's debut album Radio kickstarted one of the genre's most successful album runs, and his fourth LP Mama Said Knock You Out is featured on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums list. He charted major hits through the 1980s, 1990s, 2000s and beyond; as well as building and sustaining a career in acting and philanthropy.
Jay-Z became Hip-Hop's most famous rags-to-riches story over the course of his decades in music. Originally debuting alongside mentors like Jaz-O and Big Daddy Kane, Jay would emerge as a star in his own right in the late 1990s on the strength of hits like "Can I Get A..." and "Hard Knock Life," eventually becoming one of the biggest artists in music. His chart success and cultural influence made him a dominate figure of the 2000s; and his work in media, philanthropy and enrepreneurship has made him an icon and blueprint for those looking to build multimedia empires from their own image and branding.
Among the other legendary acts up for Hall induction this year are Chaka Khan, Tina Turner, Devo, Dionne Warwick, The Go-Gos, Carole King, Iron Miaden, Foo Fighters, Fela Kuti, Rage Against The Machine and Mary J. Blige.
Artists are eligible for nomination 25 years after their debut release.