LL COOL J rocked the bell at Nasdaq, literally.

In a significant stride forward for the cultural economy, LL COOL J and his Rock The Bells team rang the Nasdaq opening bell on Aug. 3, marking Hip-Hop's 50th anniversary. In line with Nasdaq's ongoing commitment to foster opportunities at the nexus of culture and future business, the ceremony represented a historic moment for Hip-Hop. Rock The Bells became the first company, fully owned and operated by the stewards of the Culture, to initiate the day's trading on Nasdaq, demonstrating the genre's influential journey and its growing intersection with the world of finance.

The ceremony was themed around Investing in Global Hip-Hop Culture and in addition to LL COOL J, Roxanne Shanté, Papoose, Cool V, legendary photographer Ernie Paniccioli, DJ Scratch, Legendary Damon, and June Ambrose were all in attendance for the historic event.

"We're here at Nasdaq to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop with Rock The Bells. Hip-Hop, this global cultural phenomenon, has touched lives and transcended boundaries. It's left its mark on industries far and wide, and that's why we created Rock The Bells, a space and a platform that pay homage to the icons and partners who have propelled this culture forward," LL said in his speech prior to "rocking" the bell, with a sparkling, jewel-encrusted boombox front and center as he spoke.

"As we celebrate the past 50 years, we're also building the future of Hip-Hop for the next 50 years and beyond. And the brilliance of this future lies in the minds gathered here today — the creators, the investors, the businesses and brands. Driving Hip-Hop's economic impact, NASDAQ, our partner in this celebration, understands the power of Hip-Hop and it's potential to create more equitable opportunities. With their support, we're opening the doors to endless economic opportunities for the culture."

He continued by reminding everyone that Hip-Hop began right around the corner from the ceremony, in the Bronx, and has since evolved into a global phenomenon that's touched virtually every industry.

"Remember, 50 years ago right nearby in the Bronx, Hip-Hop was born. It's since grown in to a culture force that shapes music fashion, art, technology, politics and more," he said. "It's not just music — it's a way of life for millions worldwide. As a uniquely Black American art form, Hip-Hop holds tremendous purchasing power - $16 trillion. By 2030, music revenue is projected to reach $131 billion with significant gains in live music, publishing, and the creator economy."

LL is set to kick off the Rock The Bells Festival in Queens, NY this weekend with a stacked lineup of performances including Run DMC, Queen Latifah, Salt-N-Pepa, Rakim, Slick Rick, Big Daddy Kane, De La Soul, and many more. He went on to explain how Hip-Hop has impacted the global economy.

"We've witnessed how artists tours stimulate economies, creating a ripple affect in various industries," LL said. "Rock The Bells stands at the forefront of the Hip-Hop movement because its owned and curated by the culture's icons and those inspired by their groundbreaking influence — a lot of them are in this room today. As we honor the past, seize the moment and embrace the future. Let's continue to uplift Hip Hop and its impact on the world. Rock The Bells is here to lead the charge, ensuring that the essence of this culture remains alive, not just today but for generations to come."

Watch the ceremony and check out some photos from the historic event below.