Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith is best known as the eldest child and only son of legendary American rapper, actor, and entrepreneur LL Cool J (James Todd Smith) and jewelry entrepreneur Simone I. Smith. While his parents spent decades in the high-profile entertainment spotlight, Najee has chosen a quieter, more private path centered on visual arts, photography, and apparel design rather than pursuing a career as a public-facing recording artist or Hollywood actor.
Born in September 1989, he grew up in New York City alongside his three younger sisters: Italia, Samaria, and Nina Simone. Although public curiosity often follows children of major icons, Najee has intentionally kept his day-to-day life out of tabloid headlines, focusing instead on hands-on creative projects, building independent visual portfolios, and contributing behind the scenes to cultural apparel ventures.
Creative Background and Photography
Unlike his father, who dominated early commercial hip-hop with foundational albums like Radio and Bigger and Deffer, or his younger sister Nina who pursued a singing career, Najee found his outlet behind the camera and in apparel design. He operates primarily as a professional photographer and visual creator, documenting authentic moments, urban aesthetics, and lifestyle imagery.
Photography requires sharp technical skill, patience, and an understanding of composition and lighting. Rather than relying on digital shortcuts, Najee's visual work relies on capturing genuine mood and texture. His creative output is reflected in his independent social media portfolios and personal creative projects, which highlight urban landscapes, fashion pieces, and candid personal portraits.
Professional Work With Rock The Bells
Najee's creative background naturally intersected with the family business through Rock The Bells, the multimedia hip-hop cultural platform founded by his father to celebrate classic hip-hop heritage, fashion, and art. Rather than taking an honorary executive title, Najee has actively participated in design and merchandise concepts for the brand.
For example, when developing apparel lines like custom-bleached hoodies and streetwear graphics, he took a hands-on approach to production. He has noted in interviews that he prefers creating physical, tactile fashion pieces over standard computer-generated graphics because he enjoys the physical process of garment customization. This work allows him to maintain a professional link to the entertainment industry while retaining his independence as an artist.
The Smith Family Dynamics and Siblings
The Smith household has long emphasized strong family bonds and individual work ethics. LL Cool J and Simone I. Smith married in 1995 and raised four children, encouraging each of them to forge distinct professional identities.
- Italia Anita Maria Smith: The eldest daughter, who has focused on real estate and family enterprise management.
- Samaria Leah Wisdom Smith: Founder of denim label Samaria Leah, establishing a direct footprint in the fashion design industry.
- Nina Simone Smith: The youngest sibling, who pursued a professional singing career under the name Nina-Symone.
Najee's position as the eldest son placed him in the unique position of growing up alongside his father's meteoric rise in music and television, including his long-running starring role in NCIS: Los Angeles. Despite these high-profile surroundings, his parents have consistently urged him and his siblings to view themselves as individuals capable of charting their own course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith's parents?
His parents are legendary rapper and actor James Todd Smith (known professionally as LL Cool J) and jewelry entrepreneur Simone I. Smith.
What is Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith's profession?
He works as a professional photographer, visual artist, and fashion designer, contributing creative designs and visual projects to cultural platforms like Rock The Bells.
Does Najee have any siblings?
Yes, he has three younger sisters: Italia, Samaria, and Nina Simone.
Is Najee involved in the music industry like his father?
No. Unlike his father or his youngest sister Nina, Najee does not record music or act; his professional focus remains on visual arts, photography, and apparel creation.
