LL Cool J

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Milky, and I'm back
My ace in the hole was this brand new track
I'mma slow it up and speed it up and now you're gonna eat it up
Listen to the funky beat, my tongue is gonna beat it up
I did it, but the devil didn't make me
I did it for the suckers who tried to shake and bake me
Proving a point that I'm a serious joint
You can roll me up and puff me, and then I'll anoint
Your head with oil--lots of oil
Make it run like water, watch it boil
Cause I made 'em play it, made 'em say it
Made 'em okay it, made 'em obey it---HUH
Prince of the growl is on the prowl
How You Like Me Now punk? You living foul
Here's what my game is, kill is what my aim is
A washed up rapper needs a wash up, my name is--

[Chorus]
Jack the Ripper
Jack-Jack-Jack the Ripper
Jack-Jack, Jack-Jack, Jack-Jack, Jack the Ripper
(King Hercules!)

[Verse 2]
Back for the payback, I must say that
I heard your new jam, I don't play that
It ain't loud enough punk, it ain't hitting
This year you tried, next year you're quitting
Last year you thought I was dying out
But again, and again, and again without a doubt
It's the gangster boogie, the earthquake sound
Pump it up and play it so they hear it all around
I do it up rough, tough, I don't bluff
And this is an example of funky stuff
When you wanna make hits, you make 'em like this
They ain't like this they don't hit, they miss
It's a strong record, a record for the strong
For those who appreciate real rap songs
Listen how I won't allow myself to go off track
Stay back, I got the power, I'm--
[Chorus]
Jack the Ripper
Jack-Jack-Jack the Ripper
Jack-Jack, Jack-Jack, Jack-Jack, Jack the Ripper
(King Hercules!)

[Verse 3]
Jack the Ripper, a man, not a myth
A-k-a James Todd Smith
Hard like penitentiary steel
Breaking necks while I flex my sex appeal
Homegirls in the house, c'mon
Homegirls in the house, give it up
You gotta want to get hotter
Moving and grooving, and always improving a lot'a
People don't know how nice I am
He was sleeping, so now I gotta slice my man
Like ham in a pan, wrap him up in Saran
Kidnap him and slap him up inside of a van
While you're doing your dance I want you to make moves
No one out there thought you could do
You know my name and my game and what I'm here to do
Party people, lemme see if you can dance to--

[Chorus]
Jack the Ripper
Jack-Jack-Jack the Ripper
Jack-Jack, Jack-Jack, Jack-Jack, Jack the Ripper
(King Hercules!)
Break it down! x3
Yo Bob, show that old school sucker punk what real hip hop is boy
[Scratches]

[Verse 4]
"How Ya Like Me Now?" I'm getting busier
I'm double platinum, I'm watching you get dizzier
Check out the way I say my, display my fame, my
'J' on the back, behind the Cool, without the A-Y
I love to ride the groove because the groove is smooth
It makes me move and I'll improve
As it goes on, as it flows on
When you see me, don't ask if the show's on
How that sound? Don't came around, playing me close, brown
Pull on my jock to be down
You need to stay down, way down, because you're low down
Do that dance, the prince of rap is gonna throw down
Aiming to please while I'm killing emcees
I'm gonna keep on hitting you with rough LP's
Day after day after day
You're smacked in the face by the bass of Cool J
[scratches]

"Jack the Ripper!" "The baddest around!"

[Verse 5]
I'm a beast on the microphone, a night stalker
A killing machine, a savage street talker
Jason with an axe, but I put it on wax
To eradicate the suckers who thought I had relaxed
The prince of Hip Hop, straight from Queens
Kicking it mean, keeping it clean
And you've never seen anybody rock the party
All you funky beat-aholics, this beat's Bacardi
I go to the show, and terrorize emcees, don't you know
Moving my hand like I'm playing the piano
Don't touch the dial, don't change the channel
Don't let me hear you say I ain't debonair
I'm better than any emcee out there
As a matter of fact, suckers can't compare
When I'm rocking the mic people stop and stare, at..

Get ready to dive into the world of hip-hop history with LL Cool J's legendary track, "Jack The Ripper." This captivating song was a hidden gem, only available on the cassette editions of the album "Walking With A Panther." Due to time constraints on vinyl and CD releases, "Jack The Ripper" remained exclusive to those fortunate enough to own the cassette version. Not only that, but it also served as the flipside of the hit single, "Going Back To Cali," released before the album.

What makes "Jack The Ripper" even more intriguing is its connection to the heated rap battle between LL Cool J and Kool Moe Dee. This track was a crucial element in their back-and-forth beef, showcasing LL as he embodied the persona of England's most infamous serial killer, Jack The Ripper himself.

About Jack The Ripper

"Jack The Ripper" is a mesmerizing hip-hop composition that showcases LL Cool J's lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities. Released in 1989, this track became a defining moment in the genre, solidifying LL Cool J's status as one of the greatest rappers of his time.

LL Cool J's decision to adopt the persona of Jack The Ripper adds an intriguing layer to the song's narrative. Connecting with England's notorious serial killer, LL Cool J merges history with the contemporary issues and rivalries within the hip-hop community, creating a captivating and thought-provoking experience for listeners.

The distinctiveness of "Jack The Ripper" lies in LL Cool J's exceptional wordplay and delivery. With each verse, he demonstrates his mastery of rhyme schemes and lyrical dexterity, leaving audiences in awe. His smooth flow effortlessly glides over the captivating beat, creating a mesmerizing sonic experience.

The song's mesmerizing production, combined with LL Cool J's commanding presence, establishes a hypnotic atmosphere that captures the attention of the listener from start to finish. Each verse is meticulously crafted, ensuring that every line delivers an impactful punch, further enhancing the song's appeal.

As "Jack The Ripper" unfolds, LL Cool J's lyrics paint vivid imagery, transporting us into the dark mind of the infamous serial killer. His storytelling ability shines through as he weaves tales of suspense, mystery, and danger, leaving us on the edge of our seats. The seamless blend of historical references and contemporary rap elements elevates the song's complexity and establishes LL Cool J as a true wordsmith.

Furthermore, "Jack The Ripper" serves as a testament to LL Cool J's fearlessness in tackling controversial material. By embodying the persona of a notorious killer, LL Cool J fearlessly tackles taboo subject matter, pushing the boundaries of creativity and expression in hip-hop. This willingness to take risks showcases his artistic integrity and further solidifies his position as an influential figure in the genre.

Notably, "Jack The Ripper" holds a significant place in the rap battle between LL Cool J and Kool Moe Dee. This track served as LL's response to Kool Moe Dee's diss track, "Let's Go." Through his performance as Jack The Ripper, LL Cool J delivers a powerful blow, displaying his lyrical superiority and asserting his dominance within the rap scene.

In retrospect, "Jack The Ripper" stands as a testament to LL Cool J's impact on hip-hop culture. His ability to captivate listeners with his unrivaled storytelling, impeccable flow, and lyrical prowess solidifies his status as one of hip-hop's greatest legends. This hidden gem represents a unique moment in his career, showcasing his willingness to push boundaries and create unparalleled music that continues to resonate with fans decades later.

So, get ready to embark on a lyrical journey through time with LL Cool J's "Jack The Ripper." Let the hypnotizing beats and poignant verses transport you into a world where rap legends clash and history comes alive. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of LL Cool J's unmatched talent and contribution to the genre.

• Release Date: January 27, 1988
• Artist: LL Cool J