Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith was born on September 18, 1989, as the first child of LL Cool J (James Todd Smith) and Simone I. Smith. As the eldest of four children in one of hip-hop’s most respected families, Najee was born into celebrity and wealth — but his parents worked hard to raise him grounded. LL Cool J, already a rising superstar in the late 1980s and early 1990s, was known not just for his trailblazing music but also for maintaining a stable and enduring marriage with Simone, whom he married in 1995.
Together, LL and Simone raised their children in a home that valued faith, family, and humility above all. Unlike many celebrity kids thrust into the spotlight, Najee and his siblings were kept largely out of the public eye. Despite his father’s fame, Najee was never treated like royalty; his parents believed in tough love, discipline, and accountability. This foundation helped shape Najee’s quiet yet thoughtful personality.
Quick Bio
Information | Detail |
Real Name | Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith |
Birth Date | September 18, 1989 |
Age | 35 |
Height | 6’1″ |
Nationality | American |
Birth Place | United States of America |
Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
Sexual Orientation | Straight |
Father’s Name | James Todd Smith (LL Cool J) |
Mother’s Name | Simone Smith |
Siblings | 3 (Italia Anita Maria Smith, Samaria Leah Wisdom Smith, Nina Simone Smith) |
Net Worth | $200,000 |
Children | N/A |
Siblings Names | Italia Anita Maria Smith, Samaria Leah Wisdom Smith, Nina Simone Smith |
Choosing a Life Away from the Limelight
While many children of celebrities chase the same fame their parents attained, Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith has always chosen a different path. He has never pursued acting, music, or reality television. Instead, he has intentionally avoided the limelight, staying under the radar for most of his life. His social media presence is minimal, interviews are rare or nonexistent, and public appearances are infrequent.
This decision appears to be deeply personal and intentional. Rather than living in his father’s shadow, Najee has quietly pursued his interests, carving out a life of purpose and privacy. It’s a rare trait, especially in a generation dominated by social media and the urge to be seen.
Sibling Bonds: Growing Up With Three Strong Sisters
Najee is the only son in the Smith household, growing up alongside three sisters: Italia Smith (b. 1991), Samaria Leah Smith (b. 1995), and Nina Simone Smith (b. 2000). Each sister has embraced the public in her own way — Italia pursued real estate, Samaria launched her own denim brand, and Nina is building a music career, attending the prestigious Berklee College of Music.
Despite differing levels of visibility, Najee is said to have close relationships with his siblings. As the oldest, he has often been described as the steady, protective brother — the one who supports from behind the scenes. His quiet confidence has likely played a key role in providing emotional support to the family, especially as each sibling grows into their own public identity.
Brush with the Law: A Lesson in Growth and Redemption
In 2015, Najee made headlines for the wrong reasons. He was reportedly arrested after an altercation in a New York City bar where he was allegedly involved in a scuffle with police officers. While the incident attracted some tabloid attention, it was also quickly resolved and has not defined his public image.
What stands out about the situation is not the moment itself, but how Najee handled it afterward. There was no media tour, no dramatic rebuttals, and no attempts at damage control. Instead, he appeared to reflect, grow, and move forward. Today, the incident seems like a minor blip in a life largely marked by discretion, resilience, and a mature refusal to live by the rules of tabloid culture.
Behind the Camera: A Passion for Photography and the Arts
While Najee hasn’t entered the entertainment industry in the traditional sense, reports and family social media posts have hinted at his interest in photography and visual arts. There’s evidence that he has been involved in creative projects behind the scenes — including working with Rock The Bells, the hip-hop brand co-founded by LL Cool J to celebrate and preserve classic hip-hop culture.
Whether directing photo shoots, capturing family portraits, or simply developing a visual storytelling craft, Najee seems to enjoy expressing himself through creative media — without the need for attention or fame. This creative spirit may be inherited, but the way he channels it is uniquely his own.
Rock The Bells: Working Behind the Scenes of a Family Legacy
One of the most tangible ways Najee has been connected to his father’s legacy is through the Rock The Bells brand. This multi-platform venture includes apparel, radio, live events, and curated content celebrating hip-hop legends and culture. While Najee is not the face of the brand, insiders suggest he’s played operational and creative roles, particularly in photography, branding, and logistical support.
His quiet contribution to such a culturally significant brand demonstrates his ability to influence and build — without demanding the spotlight. It also shows how he’s helping extend his father’s legacy in a respectful and modern way, behind the scenes, using skills and talents not always visible to the public eye.
Family Values and Spiritual Foundation
LL Cool J and Simone Smith are both known for their deep Christian faith, and this has undoubtedly played a role in how they raised Najee and his siblings. Church attendance, charity work, and prayer are not just part of the Smith family’s public persona — they’re core values that appear to be lived out in their daily lives.
Najee’s quiet demeanor and lack of scandal suggest that these values took root early and remain strong. While others might chase temporary fame, Najee’s sense of purpose seems rooted in faith, family, and a commitment to living meaningfully rather than extravagantly.
Privacy as a Lifestyle Choice
In today’s world, where everyone with a phone can become a celebrity, privacy is a radical act. Najee’s decision to live largely offline and away from public scrutiny is refreshing. He represents a different kind of legacy — not one of public triumphs, but one of inner strength and authenticity.
His life reminds us that not all success stories are meant to be lived in the public eye. In fact, some of the most inspiring journeys happen behind closed doors, in quiet workspaces, creative studios, and meaningful conversations away from the cameras.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith?
As of 2025, Najee is 35 years old. He may never become a rapper, actor, or celebrity entrepreneur — and that may be exactly how he wants it. Instead, he might continue to support creative projects, act as a mentor to younger family members, or explore deeper roles in branding and production through ventures like Rock The Bells.
There’s also the possibility that he will surprise us all — perhaps releasing a creative body of work or stepping into a new industry entirely. But if history is any guide, Najee will do it on his own terms, with intention, humility, and style.
A Legacy Beyond Fame
Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith offers an alternative model of what it means to be a celebrity’s child. He isn’t defined by fame or controversy, but by quiet growth, steady values, and a strong identity. His journey reminds us that life doesn’t have to be public to be meaningful, and legacy doesn’t require a spotlight — sometimes, it just needs purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith?
- Najee Laurent Todd Eugene Smith is the eldest son of rapper and actor LL Cool J and his wife Simone I. Smith. Born in 1989, he has largely stayed out of the public spotlight.
2. Is Najee Smith involved in the entertainment industry?
- Not directly. He has shown interest in photography and has been involved behind the scenes with the Rock The Bells brand, but he has not pursued a career in music, acting, or television.
3. Did Najee Smith have any legal troubles?
- Yes, he had a minor legal issue in 2015 involving an altercation at a bar. However, it was resolved quickly, and he has since maintained a low-profile lifestyle.
4. What is Najee Smith doing now?
- While there is little public information about his current ventures, he is believed to be working behind the scenes in creative or business roles, possibly within the Rock The Bells brand.
5. Is Najee married or in a relationship?
- There is no public record of Najee’s relationship status. He keeps his personal life very private.