LL Cool J recently opened up about his shelved collaborations with Michael Jackson, the legendary King of Pop, revealing why these tracks will remain unheard.
In an interview with KIIS FM, LL Cool J candidly discussed the unreleased tracks he created with Michael Jackson. According to LL, these songs, including one that leaked titled ‘Serious Effect,’ simply did not meet the high standards both artists set for themselves. “They weren’t good enough,” he admitted, emphasizing that creativity doesn’t always guarantee success, “Sometimes the art doesn’t get there. It just doesn’t get there.”
Reflecting on his unique experiences with Jackson, LL recounted a particularly amusing studio story. He described sitting with Jackson near a piano, playfully inquiring about the famous ‘Smooth Criminal’ lean. Jackson, known for his humor, joked about using a shaman and a big ceremonial ritual, only to end with a cheeky ‘No, silly.’
Beyond the unreleased music, LL spoke about his genuine admiration for Jackson. “Me and Michael Jackson went to the studio, man. Mike showed a lot of love to me and definitely to hip-hop,” he shared in a reflective moment. LL Cool J speaks highly of Michael as an artist and a person, saying, “For me, he’s the king. I’m a Michael Jackson fan.”
While fans may never get to hear LL Cool J and Michael Jackson’s collaborations, the stories reveal a light-hearted and respectful connection between these two iconic artists.