Hip-Hop Icon LL COOL J Returns To Music With Release Of New Single Featuring Rick Ross And Fat Joe

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, two-time Grammy Award-winning Hip-Hop icon, Kennedy Center Honoree, actor, author, NAACP Image Award winner, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and founder and CEO of Rock The Bells, LL COOL J, makes his triumphant return to music with the release of his new single “Saturday Night Special” featuring Rick Ross and Fat Joe via Def Jam Recordings/ Virgin Music Group.

LL COOL JPhoto by(Def Jam Records)

The new single kicks off with producer and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Q-Tip’s innovative sonic approach as LL COOL J, Rick Ross, and Fat Joe describe the harsh realities and intricate dynamics of life and the code of ethics that governs it. Named “Saturday Night Special” after the revolver class of the same name, LL COOL J highlights different types of key players found in the hustle. With an emphasis on self-preservation and strategic interaction, the song's core message is one of trust and reciprocity in the hustle.

The accompanying minimalist, black and white music video brings this hustler anthem to life as LL, Fat Joe, and Rick Ross perform together, laying down the lyrics. The video was shot in Miami, Florida, and directed by JakeTheShooter with creative direction from HiHat.

“‘Saturday Night Special’ is just the beginning,” LL said in a press release. “There’s a lot more where this came from, and I’m hype for y'all to hear this new record. We’re doing this for the fans and for Hip-Hop culture.”

“Saturday Night Special” is the first single to be released from LL’s highly anticipated 14th studio album, The FORCE (Frequencies of Real Creative Energy), set for release this fall following over a decade-long hiatus. The record was executive produced by Hip-Hop innovator and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Q-Tip, of A Tribe Called Quest. With this album, LL will help celebrate the 40th anniversary of the creation of Def Jam Recordings. As LL was the label’s first release, there is no better way to represent the legacy of Def Jam Recordings on its 40th year.

To get fans excited about the release of The FORCE, LL has teamed up with Coors Light for five exclusive listening experiences throughout the summer. These intimate listening experiences will provide guests a chance to preview the new album and will feature light bites and beverages provided by Coors Light.

Dates/markets include:

• Friday, June 28th - Los Angeles, CA
• Wednesday, July 10th - Houston, TX
• Friday, July 12th - Chicago, IL
• Tuesday, July 16th - Atlanta, GA
• Friday, August 2nd - New York, NY