LL Cool J’s ‘It’s Yours’: The Unwavering Pursuit that Shaped Hip-Hop History
March 26, 2025
In LL Cool J’s own words, the story behind “It’s Yours” is a compelling narrative of determination, chance encounters, and the relentless pursuit of a dream. This article explores the creation of this iconic track, as told by the legendary artist himself, offering a unique glimpse into the early days of hip-hop and the moments that shaped the genre.
LL Cool J’s Account
“I went to the store, I bought a song, ‘It’s Yours’ by T La Rock, and Rick Rubin’s number was on it, his number in his dorm…so I took a drum machine, and I went over to my man Frankie’s house, and we created this demo, sent it in to Rick. I called every day, every day, every day, to see if he’d heard it, he hadn’t, finally, one thing led to another and somehow Ad Rock from the Beastie Boys, it piqued his interest. He listened to the demo and then he let Rick hear it, and then Rick called me back.”
Unpacking the Journey
LL Cool J’s story underscores the determination and perseverance required to break into the music industry. His discovery of Rick Rubin’s number on a T La Rock record led to a relentless pursuit, creating a demo, and calling Rubin incessantly until his talent was recognized. The involvement of Ad Rock from the Beastie Boys illustrates the importance of collaboration and networking in the hip-hop community.
The Impression of “It’s Yours”
With guidance from Rick Rubin and producer Frankie, LL Cool J transformed his demo into the iconic track “It’s Yours.” The song’s success propelled him into the mainstream, solidifying his status as a hip-hop legend and shaping the genre’s trajectory throughout the 1980s and beyond.
Fin
LL Cool J’s firsthand account of the creation of “It’s Yours” offers invaluable insight into the early days of hip-hop and the tenacity required to make a lasting impact. The story serves as a reminder of the power of passion and perseverance, inspiring future generations of artists to pursue their dreams and leave their mark on the world of music.
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