What makes Around the Way Girl by LL Cool J notable?

The album's title track became a major hit, reaching number 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying LL Cool J's status as a leading figure in hip-hop. It also played a significant role in popularizing romantic themes within the genre, influencing subsequent artists to explore vulnerability and personal storytelling in their music. Released as LL Cool J's fourth studio album, 'Around the Way Girl' marked a key moment in his evolution as a hip-hop artist. At this point in his career, he was transitioning from the raw grit of his earlier works to a more polished sound that incorporated elements of R&B, showcasing his versatility and appeal.

How many songs are on Around the Way Girl?

Around the Way Girl has 4 tracks, running approximately 16 minutes.

Released 36 years ago this November

Around the Way Girl

LL Cool J · 1990

16 min · 4 tracks · hip-hop

Smooth, melodic beats blend with LL Cool J's charismatic delivery, creating an intimate portrait of urban romance.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Around the Way Girl (LP version) — This track exemplifies LL Cool J's ability to weave smooth R&B hooks into hip-hop, setting the stage for future crossover hits. Its exploration of romance made it relatable and accessible to a wider audience.
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Murdergram – Live (LP version) — This live performance captures LL Cool J's dynamic stage presence and lyrical prowess, contrasting sharply with the more polished studio sound of 'Around the Way Girl'. It highlights his roots in classic rap performance while maintaining engagement with the audience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases strong writing and production, with notable variations in its remixes, but lacks full cohesion as a standalone work.

What we noticed

The title track features a smooth, melodic beat that underpins LL Cool J's charismatic vocal delivery, creating a laid-back yet engaging atmosphere.
The inclusion of an instrumental version allows listeners to appreciate the production elements without vocals, highlighting the craftsmanship behind the beats.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single solidified LL Cool J's status as a leading figure in hip-hop.
Themes: 90s romanticism· smooth hip-hop grooves· urban love stories
Career context: Released as LL Cool J's fourth studio album, 'Around the Way Girl' marked a key moment in his evolution as a hip-hop artist. At this point in his career, he was transitioning from the raw grit of his earlier works to a more polished sound that incorporated elements of R&B, showcasing his versatility and appeal.
Stylistic neighbors: Kool Moe Dee· Big Daddy Kane· Nas