Groovin’ with the Classic: Doin’ It by LL Cool J – A Timeless Bop

Revisting a ’90s Classic by LL Cool J

When we mention legendary hip-hop artists, it’s hard not to include LL Cool J on that list. Born James Todd Smith, the Queens, New York native has been making waves in the rap scene since the mid-’80s. With a career spanning over three decades, LL Cool J has released 13 studio albums and has won two Grammy Awards for Best Rap Solo Performance. But one of his most iconic songs is undoubtedly “Doin’ It,” a steamy, sultry track that still resonates with listeners today.

“Doin’ It” was released in 1996 as the second single off LL Cool J’s sixth studio album, “Mr. Smith.” The track, which samples Grace Jones’ “My Jamaican Guy,” was a commercial success, peaking at No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Rap Singles chart. The song also features sultry vocals from LeShaun, a female rapper and singer who adds a unique dynamic to the track.

The song’s music video, directed by Hype Williams, was just as provocative as the lyrics. Shot in grainy, sepia-toned film, the video showcases LL Cool J and LeShaun in various intimate settings, highlighting the raw and passionate nature of their collaboration. Despite its controversial nature, the video only amplified the song’s popularity and helped cement LL Cool J as a skilled artist unafraid to push boundaries.

While “Doin’ It” remains a fan-favorite, it’s essential to note that some listeners criticize the song for its explicit content and portrayal of women. LL Cool J has faced some backlash throughout his career for the objectification of women in his music, and “Doin’ It” certainly doesn’t shy away from that. However, it’s also essential to consider the time in which the song was released, as the ’90s marked a period of sexual liberation and exploration within the hip-hop genre.

Regardless of the controversy surrounding the song, there’s no denying the impact that “Doin’ It” had on hip-hop and LL Cool J’s career. As a captivating artist and talented lyricist, LL Cool J allowed his listeners to explore the complexities of desire and temptation through his music. Even though some critiques remain valid, “Doin’ It” will forever be remembered as a quintessential ’90s hip-hop anthem that solidified LL Cool J’s place as a hip-hop legend.

Charting the Success

“Doin’ It” was released on January 23, 1996, as the second single from LL Cool J’s sixth studio album, Mr. Smith. The song quickly climbed the charts, proving itself to be a notable hit for the rapper.

Upon release, “Doin’ It” made an impressive debut on the Billboard Hot 100, entering the chart at number 69. It continued to gain traction, eventually reaching its peak position at number 9 on March 30, 1996. The song spent a total of 22 weeks on the Hot 100, demonstrating its longevity and popularity among listeners.

In addition to its Hot 100 success, “Doin’ It” also performed well on other charts. On the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, it reached an even higher peak position – number 7. The song also appeared on the Hot Rap Songs chart, where it secured the top spot, holding the number 1 position for a notable three weeks.

“Doin’ It” found success not only in the United States but also internationally. In the United Kingdom, it peaked at number 16 on the UK Singles Chart, and in Australia, it reached number 25 on the ARIA Singles Chart.

Besides its chart achievements, “Doin’ It” received numerous accolades and recognition. The song was nominated for Best Rap Solo Performance at the 1997 Grammy Awards, and it was ranked number 60 on VH1’s list of the 100 Greatest Songs of Hip Hop.

While LL Cool J’s “Doin’ It” may not have reached the top spot on the primary charts, its overall chart performance, awards recognition, and lasting impact on the hip-hop genre prove that the track is undoubtedly a major success in the rapper’s extensive discography.

Delving into the Energetic Lyrics of “Doin’ It”

The lyrics of “Doin’ It” by LL Cool J tell a vivid story of passionate, adventurous intimacy between two individuals. Written and released in 1996, the song captured the spirit of the era in terms of its audacity and openness to discuss sexuality. During the 90s, there was a shift in societal norms, allowing for more candid conversations about topics that were previously considered taboo.

The lyrics of “Doin’ It” directly address the desire for a more exciting, unconventional experience in the bedroom. LL Cool J narrates the story from both a male and female perspective, portraying a mutual longing for an explosive, erotically-charged encounter.

In the context of the time, the mid-90s were marked by significant events that influenced the world of music, particularly in the realm of hip-hop and R&B. The East Coast-West Coast hip-hop rivalry was at its peak, and the tragic deaths of Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. occurred shortly after the release of this song. The boldness and unapologetic nature of “Doin’ It” can be seen as a reflection of the fearless attitude of the era, as artists pushed boundaries and challenged conventional norms.

Furthermore, the mention of “candy rain” in the lyrics is a nod to the 1994 hit song “Candy Rain” by the R&B group Soul For Real, thus demonstrating the interconnected nature of popular music at the time. The use of slang and colloquial language within the lyrics of “Doin’ It” also contributes to its authentic representation of 90s urban culture.

A Visual Feast: The “Doin’ It” Music Video

When it comes to memorable music videos from the 90s, LL Cool J’s “Doin’ It” from his sixth studio album, Mr. Smith, undoubtedly holds a special place in the hearts of many. Released in 1996, the music video is a testament to LL Cool J’s storytelling prowess and the artistic visions that defined the era.

Directed by the talented Hype Williams, known for his work with prominent artists such as Tupac, Notorious B.I.G., and Beyoncé, the “Doin’ It” music video showcases his signature style of using vibrant colors, dynamic camera angles, and a keen eye for visual storytelling. Williams’ distinctive approach helped catapult the music video into an instant classic, which went on to gain heavy rotation on MTV and other music video channels.

As for the production, the budget for the “Doin’ It” video was not publicly disclosed. However, it is worth noting that Hype Williams was known for his elaborate sets and high-production values in his videos, so it’s safe to assume that the “Doin’ It” video was no exception. The video takes a cinematic approach, with a narrative that intertwines with the passionate, provocative lyrics of the song. It features LL Cool J and guest vocalist LeShaun in a series of sensual and flirtatious vignettes that perfectly complement their steamy back-and-forth verses.

One of the most notable aspects of the “Doin’ It” music video is the use of split-screen techniques. The video often displays two different scenes simultaneously, with LL Cool J and LeShaun facing each other while performing their respective parts. This unique visual presentation not only adds to the overall aesthetic of the video, but it also accentuates the chemistry between the two artists and highlights the song’s narrative.

In addition to the captivating visuals, the styling and fashion choices in the music video are quintessentially 90s. From the slicked-back hair to the baggy pants and gold chains, LL Cool J’s signature look is on full display. The styling choices for LeShaun echo the era’s bold and sexy trends, making the overall visual experience a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

The “Doin’ It” music video has stood the test of time, becoming a fan-favorite and serving as a testament to the creative genius and iconic style that defined the mid-90s hip-hop scene. With a visually stunning music video that perfectly complements the sultry, passionate, and vivid storytelling of the song, “Doin’ It” remains an unforgettable piece of music history.

The Mastermind Behind “Doin’ It”: Composer Rashad “Ringo” Smith

Rashad “Ringo” Smith is the phenomenal composer who gifted us with the unforgettable track “Doin’ It” by LL Cool J. Having worked with an extensive list of legendary artists, Ringo has cemented himself as a heavyweight in the music industry. His discography is nothing short of impressive, featuring iconic hits such as “Flava In Ya Ear” by Craig Mack and “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See” by Busta Rhymes. Smith’s genius lies in his ability to create innovative beats and melodies that never fail to captivate listeners, making him one of the most sought-after composers of our time.

Awards, Accolades, and Adaptations

“Doin’ It” has certainly left an indelible mark on the music industry since its release. The single, released in 1996, reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 7 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts, solidifying its status as a hit. The song’s commercial success led to it being certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in June 1996, further proving its impact and popularity.

The song’s infectious beat and catchy hook have also made it a popular choice for various media appearances. One notable instance is in the 2006 comedy film “Date Movie,” where a hilarious parody of the song is performed by the character Grant Funkyerdoder. The song has also been featured in TV series like “Cold Case” and “New York Undercover,” demonstrating its widespread appeal.

In addition to its mainstream success, “Doin’ It” has also received praise from critics. For example, the song was listed in Rolling Stone’s “50 Best Songs of the Nineties” in 2011, further cementing its place in music history.

The song’s popularity has also led to numerous cover versions and remixes over the years. In 2003, dancehall artist Wayne Marshall released a cover of the song, giving it a fresh twist with a reggae-infused beat. Furthermore, the track has been remixed by various DJs and producers, such as M.T. – 4K who released an electro house version in 2017, effectively introducing the song to a new generation of listeners.

All things considered, “Doin’ It” continues to be an enduring hit for LL Cool J, and its legacy lives on through the various accolades, media appearances, and reinterpretations it has received throughout the years.

Diving into the Musical Anatomy

When it comes to the musical structure of “Doin’ It,” LL Cool J showcases his masterful ability to blend various elements together, creating an engaging and memorable sonic experience. The key in which the song is written is B-flat minor, which lends a sense of tension and intensity to the overall composition. This intensity is further accentuated by the use of a descending chromatic bass line, which adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the mix.

The chord structure of “Doin’ It” follows a fairly standard progression, with the primary chords being Bbm, Gb, Db, and Fm. The verse sections of the track feature a more stripped-back arrangement, allowing the focus to remain on LL Cool J’s smooth and rhythmic vocal delivery. The chorus, on the other hand, brings in additional harmonic elements, creating a fuller sound that helps to differentiate it from the verses.

The tempo of “Doin’ It” sits at a comfortable 96 beats per minute (BPM), which is a common tempo for hip-hop tracks of the era. This mid-tempo pace allows for a laid-back groove that perfectly complements the song’s subject matter and overall vibe. The drum programming on the track is particularly noteworthy, as it features a combination of both sampled and synthesized beats that give the track a distinct, yet familiar, sound. The syncopated kick and snare pattern, accompanied by a subtle hi-hat rhythm, creates a solid foundation on which the rest of the instrumentation can build.

In terms of production, the song employs various techniques to create an engaging and dynamic listening experience. For instance, the use of stereo panning and reverb serves to add depth and dimension to the mix, while the subtle incorporation of various sound effects and vocal samples helps to keep the listener’s interest throughout the track’s duration. Additionally, the song’s structure is organized in such a way that it provides a perfect balance between repetition and variation, ensuring that it remains engaging without becoming monotonous.

Overall, “Doin’ It” is a prime example of LL Cool J’s ability to craft a musically engaging and memorable track. The combination of the song’s key, chord progression, tempo, and production techniques come together to create a listening experience that is both familiar and fresh. This intricate balance is undoubtedly one of the reasons why the song has remained a fan favorite for years to come.