LL Cool J Rethinks Final Exit

When LL Cool J first announced the release of his new album, Exit 13, it was obvious that the legendary rapper was on his way out of the game (if you believe in rap retirements). The title alone speaks for itself. It's LL's 13th full-length (including his 1996 Greatest Hits compilation) on the only label he's ever known, Def Jam Records. Now, Uncle L seems to be having a change of heart.

"As far as re-signing, it's not out of the question," he said at this year's Essence Music Festival. "But it would have to be some kind of different type of deal. I don't know what type of deal we do now in this environment. I'm not going to do a ten album deal or three albums. What do I sign? I don't know really how to make the deal. All I know is, I don't mind working with them, and I'm open to the idea. I'm not above it."

Cool J hasn't always been at ease with Def Jam's management style. His displeasure with ex Def Jam prez Jay-Z has been well documented. But he seems to have found some sense of comfort in the new administration, headed by new Senior VP, A&R Shakir Stewart.

It'll be interesting to see if the world's most female friendly MC decides to give Def Jam one more shot.