C.L. Smooth (born Lamont Jody Porter, October 8, 1968) is an American rapper best known as one half of the duo Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth. Hailing from New Rochelle, New York, he gained prominence in the early 1990s East Coast hip-hop scene with his smooth flow and introspective lyrics. The duo's classic tracks, including "They Reminisce Over You (T.R.O.Y.)" and "Straighten It Out," are considered landmarks of hip-hop's golden age. While his solo career did not reach the same heights, C.L. Smooth remains a respected figure in hip-hop culture.
