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LL Cool J’s fourth studio album, “Mama Said Knock You Out,” was released today in 1990. It marked a moment in his career and in the culture of hip-hop. Following a brief dip in popularity, LL Cool J came back strong with this record, reaffirming his status as a talented figure.
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The album was powerful, featuring aggressive and impactful tracks like “Mama Said Knock You Out.” LL Cool J’s lyrical delivery was sharper than ever, and the production was a mix of classic hip-hop beats with a contemporary sound. The title track itself became an anthem, declaring his brave return to the rap scene.
Source: Ethan Miller / Getty
What set “Mama Said Knock You Out” apart was LL Cool J’s ability to reinvent himself while staying true to his roots. He let go of the lover-boy image from his previous work, embracing a harder, more assertive personality that connected with both his core fanbase and a new generation of hip-hop fans. The album not only strengthened his career but also earned him a lot of praise from critics, cementing his place in hip-hop history. Listen to the album below!
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
1. LL Cool J – The Boomin’ System
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
2. LL Cool J – Around the Way Girl
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
3. LL Cool J – Eat ‘Em Up L Chill
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
4. LL Cool J – Mr. GoodBar
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
5. LL Cool J – Murdergram (live at Rapmania)
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
6. LL Cool J – Cheesy Rat Blues
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
7. LL Cool J – Farmers’ Blvd (Our Anthem)
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
8. LL Cool J – Mama Said Knock You Out
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
9. LL Cool J – Milky Cereal
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
10. LL Cool J – Jingling Baby (Remixed but Still Jingling)
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
11. LL Cool J – To Da Break of Dawn
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
12. LL Cool J – 6 Minutes of Pleasure
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
13. LL Cool J – Illegal Search
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
14. LL Cool J – The Power of God
On This Day September 14, 1990: LL Cool J Released His Fourth Album Mama Said Knock You Out was originally published on wtlcfm.com
