LL Cool J Explains Why Jay Z And DMX Aren't On Def Jam's Mouth Rushmore

According to LL Cool J, Def Jam's Mount Rushmore includes himself, the Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, and Slick Rick.

That leaves off some pretty big names -- including JAY-Z and DMX.

During a chat with Joe Budden, LL defended his choices.

"We're facing stuff that kept the lights on at certain periods of time. I know DMX is supremely talented, used to kill the stage, sold a ton of records. I know Jay did a ton of stuff up there. So many others, I can name a zillion artists up there who did unbelievable sh*t. I'm very clear about that. But I also know that, when I walked into Rick Rubin's dormitory, it was a f*cking idea, bro. Like, you're trying to talk to me about guys that are popular. I watched this sh*t when it was a f*cking idea on a Post-It. You know what I mean? It's two different conversations. The world is talking about who was the most popular. That's all they care about. Who was the most popular, who was the richest, who sold the most records, who was exciting," LL explained. "I get that, and I respect it. I love it.  But that's not what built the company. That's what expanded the company at a different point. Look at our Mount Rushmore! Of the f***ing country. They talk about Mount Rushmore, but then they want me to put Bush on there. Who's on there? The bones of the country, not who came later."

Solid logic?