The DEFinition cover

The DEFinition

LL Cool J · 2004

45 min · 11 tracks · hip-hop

A blend of smooth R&B hooks and classic hip-hop rhythms, showcasing LL Cool J's charisma and lyrical prowess.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo groove
  • smooth hooks for relaxing
  • danceable tracks for gatherings
  • charismatic lyrical performances

Maybe skip if you want

  • seekers of instant gratification
  • prefer complex sonic experimentation

Where this album fits

Themes
club-ready anthems· romantic swagger· personal reflection
Career context
Released on August 31, 2004, 'The DEFinition' was LL Cool J's 10th studio album, coming after his commercially successful 'G.O.A.T.' in 2000. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his legacy as a hip-hop pioneer while also engaging with a more mature sound that reflected his evolution as an artist.
Stylistic neighbors
Kool Moe Dee· Big Daddy Kane· Nas
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Confessions by Usher — Combines smooth R&B vocals with personal themes of love and reflection, similar to LL's mature sound.
Urban Legend by T.I. — Features club-ready anthems and a blend of charisma with introspective lyrics, much like LL's approach.
Late Registration by Kanye West — Merges soulful samples with lyrical depth, reflecting personal and romantic themes akin to LL's style.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Headsprung 4:27
  • 2 Rub My Back 4:43
  • 3 I’m About to Get Her 4:21
  • 4 Move Somethin’ 3:39
  • 5 Hush 3:34
  • 6 Every Sip 4:32

Disc 2

  • 1 Shake It Baby 3:48
  • 2 Can’t Explain It 4:12
  • 3 Feel the Beat 4:17
  • 4 Apple Cobbler 3:39
  • 5 1 in the Morning 3:44

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata