LL COOL J’s new docuseries, *Hip Hop Was Born Here*, premieres today on Paramount+. Hosted by the iconic rapper and actor, the series was created with Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning. This five-episode journey explores the origins and growth of hip hop, showing how a local culture became a global sensation.
*Hip Hop Was Born Here* takes viewers through key New York neighborhoods, recording studios, and other important sites that shaped the genre. The series also features insights on classic tracks from beloved artists. Alongside LL COOL J, you’ll hear from legends like Big Daddy Kane, Method Man, Rev Run, Doug E. Fresh, Jadakiss, Roxanne Shante, and many more.
Throughout the series, LL asks guests to think about their legacy. What does it mean to them? What kind of impact are they leaving behind? With hip hop now over 50 years old, it’s a great time to reflect on its ongoing influence worldwide.
LL COOL J, born James Todd Smith, is one of hip hop’s pioneers. He has made significant contributions to the genre, including his latest album, *THE FORCE*. His work has earned him Grammy Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and the Kennedy Center Honors. He also supports hip hop through initiatives like the Rock The Bells music festival and his SiriusXM station, LL COOL J’s Rock The Bells Radio.
After its U.S. premiere, *Hip Hop Was Born Here* will debut in the UK, Australia, and several European countries on Wednesday. The series is a collaboration between MTV Entertainment Studios, Rock The Bells, and Omaha Productions.
