LL Cool J Becomes First Rapper To Receive Kennedy Center Honors Award

Hip-hop history was just made in Washington, D.C. when LL Cool J became the first rapper to receive the Kennedy Center Honor. He is also the youngest recipient to receive the honor, at age 49.

The rapper-actor was honored with a beautiful testimonial from Queen Latifah, and performances by Busta Rhymes, MC Lyte, QuestLove, and DMC of the legendary group Run DMC. "I'm humble, but I'm not going to play pseudo-humble," he said before the program. "I'm the one!" 

LL also took to instagram to express his immense gratitude for the honor. "This one is for those who came before me and those who followed me. We were sent to this planet to love and inspire one another. Manifest our dreams and make them a reality. I hope you’re inspired by me because I’m absolutely Inspired by you," he wrote.

Along with LL, the other recipients honored were Grammy-Award winning singer-songwriter Lionel Richie, singer-songwriter Gloria Estefan, TV legend Norman Lear, and dancer-choreographer Carmen de Lavallade.

The last 8 years, President Obama was in attendance, however, Trump pulled out of this year's ceremony back in August, making this a rare Honors event not featuring a sitting U.S. President. Did anyone mind? We think NOT!

Kennedy Center officials, as well as attendees, did not hide their relief of Trump's absence. Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter and Chairman David M. Rubenstein released a statement saying, "In choosing not to participate in this year's honor's activities, the administration has graciously signaled its respect for the Kennedy Center and ensures the honors gala remains a deservingly special moment for the honorees." 

The night concluded with a stunning tribute to honor R&B legend Lionel Richie which began with none other than previous recipient Stevie Wonder singing Richie's hits, "I Love You" and "Easy." 

Truly an amazing night spent honoring amazing artists who have spent their lifetimes contributing to American culture. #Salute

Congrats to LL Cool J, Lionel Richie, and all of this year's honorees. You can check out the Kennedy Center Honors special on CBS Dec. 26 at 9pm. #Salute