It’s kind of a comeback….for the Grammy’s that is. After 7 years of rudderless, aimless, unmanned ceremony, the 2012 Grammy Awards will be hosted by LL Cool J. While most of us didn’t really notice, the awards have just used a stream of presenters and pre-presenters since 2005, when Queen Latifah was the last official host.
Does that mean that this year will be any less of a snore? Probably not. But LL is likeable, respected and mainstream enough to bridge all Grammy audiences.
Even though LL Cool J was part of the Grammy nomination show’s Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five tribute, his hosting gig probably has less to do with his status as a hip hop legend, and more to do with the fact that his TV show NCIS: Los Angeles helps to keep the old people network CBS on top of the ratings. The CBS is also the home of the Grammy telecast…which is also why the goth chick from NCIS always ends up awkwardly presenting an award.
But even if NARAS prefers Todd James, LL Cool J will always be hip hop, so it’s a win.

LL Cool J’s statement…and more Grammy details…
After the jump

LL Cool J (via People):

“I’m thrilled to be part of Music’s Biggest Night. I will always have fond memories of my first Grammy Awards and to now be hosting the Grammy show, in the company of so many other incredible artists, is a dream come true.“

The 54th Grammy Awards airs on Feb. 12 on CBS at 8 p.m. ET/PT
Nicki Minaj will be performing, along with Bruno “Everybody Nose” Mars, Taylor Swift, and a woman who sings way better than Taylor a/k/a Kelly Clarkson.
As for the awards themselves (which seem to be 3rd most important, behind red carpet and performances): Adele and Kanye West are heavily nominated…

Related:
Kanye West & Adele Lead 54th Annual Grammy Awards Nominations
Kanye West Blames Himself For ‘Album of the Year’ Grammy Snub
Steve Stoute’s Open Letter To The Grammy Board
Common, LL Cool J & More Tribute Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five (Video)