LL Cool J Delivers a Knockout On MTV Unplugged

1991

For the first time, MTV Unplugged features rap acts, with De La Soul, MC Lyte, A Tribe Called Quest and LL Cool J performing. LL steals the show with a shirtless rendition of "Mama Said Knock You Out."

The Season 2 episode is branded as "Yo! Unplugged Rap," with the four acts crammed into the 30-minute time slot. Previous episodes featured the likes of Sting, Paul McCartney and Elton John - big names, but no strangers to the acoustic format. Unplugging rappers is more risky, since they traditionally rely on computer-generated samples and beats. The show is recorded on April 10, 1991 in New York City at Chelsea Studios. With turntables replaced by a live band called Pop's Cool Love, Tribe takes the stage with "Can I Kick It?," followed by MC Lyte, who does "Cappucino." LL follows with an ultra smooth take on "Jinglin' Baby," then takes off his shirt and lets loose with a primal performance of "Mama Said Knock You Out." It's this performance that gets the replay, with MTV putting the clip into rotation. LL proves he can generate his own electricity, and he also shows why deodorant should roll on clear: his chalky white armpits are kind of disconcerting. De La Soul - maybe not the best choice as headliner, closes the show in mellow form with "Ring Ring Ring" and "Buddy." With acoustic rap established as a viable format, the Fugees and The Roots score with a sound that relies on live drums, acoustic guitar and string bass. The show is also another rung on LL Cool J's ladder to the top - in the following decades he becomes a top actor while maintaining his rap career.