Businesses Owned by LL Cool J
LL Cool J, born James Todd Smith, is widely known for his legendary career as a rapper and actor, but over the years, he has also carved out a notable path as an entrepreneur. From music and fashion to fitness and digital media, LL Cool J has built a diverse business portfolio that reflects his passion, innovation, and cultural influence. His ventures showcase how celebrities can successfully transition from entertainment icons to business moguls.
One of LL Cool J’s most prominent ventures is Rock the Bells, a multi-platform brand he founded in 2018 to celebrate classic hip-hop culture. Named after one of his most iconic songs, Rock the Bells has grown into a full-fledged company encompassing a website, merchandise line, radio platform, and live events. Rock the Bells Radio, which airs on SiriusXM, features curated hip-hop content from legendary artists and DJs, and the broader Rock the Bells brand has become a major voice in preserving and promoting hip-hop’s roots while giving new life to the legends of the genre.
In addition to media, LL Cool J has stepped into the fashion and apparel space. Rock the Bells also includes a clothing line featuring nostalgic hip-hop themes and limited-edition collaborations with artists and designers. The apparel celebrates not only LL Cool J’s legacy but also the broader cultural impact of the genre he helped pioneer.
Fitness is another area where LL Cool J has made his mark. A longtime advocate of healthy living, he co-authored the bestselling book The Platinum Workout, which laid the foundation for his influence in the fitness world. Although not a traditional fitness company owner, he has developed branded fitness programs and has hinted at future health and wellness ventures inspired by his personal training routines.
LL Cool J has also been involved in digital media and tech entrepreneurship. He is an investor and supporter of technology platforms that amplify Black creators and entrepreneurs. His work with venture capital firms and tech startups is more behind the scenes, but his presence in this space speaks to his interest in supporting innovation, especially within communities of color.
Beyond his individual ventures, LL Cool J has collaborated with major companies and brands, including deals with global fashion retailers and television networks. His role as an executive producer on several television projects and his long-standing acting career—particularly on NCIS: Los Angeles—has further expanded his business footprint, giving him the financial foundation and media influence to support his entrepreneurial pursuits.
LL Cool J’s business moves are rooted in purpose as much as profit. His companies often align with his commitment to uplifting Black culture, supporting creative expression, and promoting health and empowerment. By combining business savvy with cultural authenticity, LL Cool J continues to set an example for entertainers looking to build long-term influence beyond the spotlight.
As his brand evolves, LL Cool J shows no signs of slowing down. With Rock the Bells rapidly expanding and growing interest in the intersections of entertainment, fashion, tech, and wellness, the businesses owned by LL Cool J are likely to remain influential for years to come. His journey offers a blueprint for how passion, legacy, and entrepreneurship can go hand in hand.
