LL Cool J Performs ‘Headsprung’, ‘Doin It,’ More at 2024 VMAs: Watch

Nearly 25 years after being the first to declare himself the G.O.A.T. (which his dancers referenced with posters of the farm animal), LL Cool J reminded us he’s worthy of that title at the MTV VMAs on Wednesday night. In between classics like “Around the Way Girl” and “Doin’ It,” he performed “Passion” and “Proclivities” from his recently released 14th studio album, The F.O.R.C.E., another acronym, this time for Frequencies of Real Creative Energy.

LL was introduced by Busta Rhymes, who cheekily commanded fans to “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See” as he explained that his colleague was the first artist to release an album on the storied hip-hop label Def J, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. His Def Jam label mates Flavor Flav and Chuck D reunited as Public Enemy for a performance of “Bring the Noise” too.

Last year, LL Cool J participated in the VMAs 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop salute, performing a medley of “I’m Bad” and “Mama Said Knock You Out.” It was the first time he performed on the awards show in a quarter of a century.

In 1997, the rapper became the first hip-hop artist MTV recognized with its Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award. Mariah Carey presented him with the honor. He earned his first Moon Person in 1991 in the Best Rap Video category for “Mama Said Knock You Out,” which he also performed at that awards show.

Other performers at this year’s VMAs include Megan Thee Stallion, Lenny Kravitz, Sabrina Carpenter, Shawn Mendes, and Chappell Roan. The most nominated artists are Taylor Swift and Post Malone.