Hip-hop pioneer LL Cool J has been named host of the 2012 Grammys — making the “I Need Love” hit-maker the first official host of the awards show in seven years.

The actor and two-time Grammy winner has presented the live Grammy nominations every year since 2008, making him an obvious choice for the job of hosting the actual ceremony.

LL said in a statement:

“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 Grammys show, in the company of so many other incredible artists, is a dream come true.”

Queen Latifah was the last official host of the Grammys back in 2005. Every year since then, the show has been presented by a medley of musicians, rather than one person.

The 54th Grammy Awards will air on CBS (8 p.m. ET/PT) — live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles — on Feb 12.