LL Cool J, the rap legend, recently shared that he had no idea he would invent one of the most widely-used phrases of all time, “G.O.A.T.”—short for “Greatest of All Time.” The rapper first used the acronym for his 2000 album G.O.A.T., which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. He combined inspiration from Muhammad Ali’s famous “I am the greatest” quote and the nickname of basketball legend Earl “The Goat” Manigault.
Although LL Cool J didn’t trademark the phrase, he finds it wild that the term has become part of everyday language across the globe. The 56-year-old rapper expressed pride in his creation and sees it as inspiration for future work, believing his ability to influence global culture through his art means he can continue to achieve great things.
Reflecting on the widespread use of “G.O.A.T.” today, LL Cool J says he’s moved by how his art has touched the world. Despite missing out on the financial benefits of trademarking the phrase, the rapper focuses on its lasting impact and what more he can create.
