LL COOL J with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Rakim, and more

Philadelphia-born Jeff Townes, aka DJ Jazzy Jeff, renowned for his partnership with Will Smith in DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, is a pioneer turntablist known for the Transformer scratch. He executive-produced Jill Scott's debut and ran A Touch of Jazz. With Grammy awards for tracks like "Parents Just Don't Understand" and "Summertime," Townes made waves in hip-hop and R&B. His solo works include The Magnificent trilogy and collaborations with Eric Roberson and Freddie Foxx.

Rakim, born in Wyandanch, Long Island, is a legendary rapper known for his smooth, jazz-influenced flow and intricate lyrics. As part of Eric B. & Rakim, he released classics like *Paid in Full* and *Follow the Leader*. His solo work includes hits like *The 18th Letter*, collaborating with icons like Dr. Dre and Linkin Park. Rakim’s impact on East Coast rap remains unparalleled.

De La Soul, a pioneering Hip Hop trio from NYC, is renowned for their debut "3 Feet High and Rising." They released 5 more iconic albums, collaborated with Prince Paul, and earned a Grammy nod for 2016's "...And The Anonymous Nobody." After a long battle for rights, their catalog will stream from March 2023.

The Roots, formed by Black Thought and ?uestlove in Philadelphia, are known for their innovative rap band style. Their successful albums include "Things Fall Apart," which went platinum, and collaborations with Erykah Badu, John Legend, and Elvis Costello. As the house band for Jimmy Fallon’s show, they gained nationwide fame and numerous Grammys. Notable members included Rahzel and Kamal Gray.

LL Cool J, born in Queens, NY, is a legendary rapper known for hits like "Mama Said Knock You Out" and "I Need Love." Beyond music, he's an acclaimed actor, author, and philanthropist, winning Grammys and a NAACP Image Award. A Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, he starred in NCIS: Los Angeles and hosted Lip Sync Battle.