Conversation so far:
How did LL break through?
Smith was signed by Def Jam, which led to the release of his first official record.
What was the title of this album?
the 12-inch single "I Need a Beat" .
What awards did he win?
RIAA.
LL won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance in 1992 for the title track.

Question: Who helped him in his career?
Self-contained rewrite: Who helped LL Cool J in his career?