LL Cool J to host the Grammy Awards ceremony for a fourth year

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 22 (UPI) -- Actor and hip-hop icon LL Cool J is to return as host of the Grammy Awards ceremony for the fourth consecutive year, CBS announced.

"As both a Grammy-winning recording artist and an accomplished actor, LL Cool J's wide range of talent, dynamic personality and charismatic energy make him the perfect choice to host the Grammy Awards," Recording Academy President/Chief Executive Officer Neil Portnow said in a statement Wednesday. "His unique expertise allows him to set the right tone for the show and connect with everyone -- from his musical peers to fans at home. We are honored to have him back."

"I'm thrilled to again be part of Music's Biggest Night," added LL Cool J. "The performances and moments you see on the Grammy stage are nothing less than amazing throughout the years and this year's show is shaping up to be one you will never forget."

The lineup for the Feb. 8 ceremony at the Staples Center in Los Angeles includes previously announced performers AC/DC, Eric Church, Common, Ariana Grande, Miranda Lambert, John Legend, Madonna, Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith, Usher and Pharrell Williams. The event celebrating all genres of music will air live on CBS.