LL Cool J is back in rap! His 2024 return feels like a long-awaited homecoming. With his new album, The FORCE, he sounds smoother and sharper than ever. Q-Tip’s amazing production brings new life to LL’s flow. It reminds us why he has been a legend for so long.
Tracks like “Murdergram Deux” and “30 Decembers” show he’s not just reminiscing. He’s here to prove that the Kangol still fits. LL wants to show that timelessness comes from evolving, not just looking back. It’s not about trying to stay relevant; it’s about refining his craft and proving he still has it.
De La Soul’s Journey
On the flip side, De La Soul’s journey to the digital age wasn’t easy. After dominating the ’80s and ’90s, their groundbreaking use of samples led to legal troubles. Their music was tied up for years. Instead of giving up, they came back strong. They crowd-funded a new album, And the Anonymous Nobody…. This project was a direct response to their legal struggles. Without relying on their past, they created something fresh and free from those chains.
The Challenge of Staying True
The landscape of rap has changed, but the challenge for golden-age rappers like LL Cool J, MC Lyte, and De La Soul isn’t just staying relevant it’s staying true. The industry has sped up, and it won’t wait for anyone to catch up. These artists have found a way to balance evolution and authenticity.
MC Lyte’s 1 of 1 is her first album in nine years. It’s more than just music; it’s a statement. She has been vocal about her struggles in the industry. From label disputes to being underappreciated compared to her male counterparts, she’s faced many challenges. But with this album, she’s taking back what’s hers. Tracks like “To Rock The Mic” and “Lyte Ghost Lil Mama” show a woman who has been through it all and come out stronger. She’s not asking for recognition she’s planting her own garden, full of wisdom and resilience.
What connects LL Cool J and MC Lyte’s new work is their belief in something bigger than themselves. They aren’t just making music for hits or accolades. They’re using their platforms to speak on faith, activism, and today’s world. In The FORCE, LL raps about power, culture, and his place in it all. MC Lyte turns her experiences into messages of perseverance and change. These albums are blueprints for how to stay grounded, relevant, and powerful in a constantly shifting game.
