LL Cool J is gearing up for the release of his 13th and final album on his record deal with Def Jam. The new album was originally titled "Todd Smith Pt. 2: Back To Cool" but was later on renamed to "Exit 13".

LL hopes that his highly anticipated set will be his first platinum album in nearly ten years.

"With all my television and film projects, the quality level of my recent albums has suffered," LL said, while speaking with Rolling Stone.

"This is a record that I actually, honestly believe from the deepest part of my soul, I would buy - every record you make is not like that."

LL, born James Todd Smith, explained that the Hollywood writer's strike, gave him the time again to fully focus on his music. "Exit 13" has said to be executively produced is by fellow Queens rapper 50 Cent. The new album showcases "a whole other level of dedication, commitment, creativity."

Music heavyweights like Wyclef Jean, KRS-One, Jim Jones, Lil Kim, Method Man and Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora will have features.

When asked if "Exit 13" will be his last album on Def Jam, the MC revealed, "It's my last record on the contract, but that doesn't mean that our relationship is over."

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