Heavy Rotation - The Force
Hip-hop has always had an age problem. After 30, the label often puts you on an iceberg and sends you off to sea. Acts we've grown up with have historically struggled to make music that feels both true to the artist and fits today's sound.
That's why I love LL Cool J's latest album, "The Force." LL teams up with Q-Tip to create a blueprint for older artists. The Force sits in its own lane, with production that gives you the feel of the golden age of hip-hop, without feeling dated.
Credit goes to Q-Tip, whose production blends A Tribe Called Quest's vibe with today's sound, giving LL room to paint visuals through his raps. It's grown man music for the morning run, Saturday cruise, or fuel during a creative session.
What I really love about this album is that it shows creativity has no age limit. My favorite track on the album is "Saturday Night Special."