Top 15 Ice Cube Songs – Hip Hop Golden Age

15. Hello ft Dr Dre & MC Ren (2000)

“I started this gangsta sh** / And this the motherf*****’ thanks I get?”

Ice Cube’s “Hello” featuring Dr. Dre and MC Ren, from 2000’s War & Peace Vol. 2 (The Peace Disc), is a dope N.W.A. reunion. Following Eazy-E’s passing in 1995, the surviving members resolved their differences, paving the way for this collaboration. The track offers a nostalgic reflection on their N.W.A. era and the group’s lasting impact on Hip Hop culture. With its hard-hitting beats and lyrical prowess, “Hello” pays homage to their shared history and demonstrates their continued relevance in the genre. This reunion track is a memorable part of Ice Cube’s extensive discography, bridging his solo career with his influential roots in N.W.A.

14. Friday (1995)

You know it ain’t no stoppin all tha doggs I’m droppin / It’s Friday night so everythang is poppin…”

“Friday,” the title track from the 1995 cult classic film’s soundtrack, is a quintessential Ice Cube party anthem. The song’s infectious hook and laid-back West Coast vibe capture the essence of the movie’s carefree atmosphere. However, its release sparked controversy in the Hip Hop community, leading to a notable feud between Ice Cube and Cypress Hill. The latter group alleged that Cube had appropriated the song’s hook after a studio session with them. Despite the controversy, “Friday” became a fan favorite and a staple of Ice Cube’s discography.

13. Endangered Species (Tales from The Darkside) ft Chuck D (1990)

“If I was old, they’d probably be a friend of me / Since I’m young, they consider me the enemy / They kill ten of me to get the job correct / To serve, protect, and break a n***** neck / Cuz I’m the one with the trunk of funk / And ‘F*** Tha Police’ in the tape deck…”

“Endangered Species (Tales From The Darkside)” featuring Chuck D, from Ice Cube’s groundbreaking solo debut AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted, is a powerful collaboration between two Hip Hop titans. This track unites the East Coast’s socially conscious voice with the West Coast’s raw, unapologetic voice, creating a hard-hitting commentary on the struggles young Black men face. Over a characteristically chaotic Bomb Squad production, Ice Cube and Chuck D deliver scathing verses addressing police brutality and systemic racism. Their lyrical prowess and unflinching honesty make this song a standout on an already exceptional album. The combination of Ice Cube’s aggressive delivery and Chuck D’s authoritative presence results in a track that encapsulates the anger and frustration of a generation, solidifying its place as a classic in both artists’ discographies.

12. This Is How We Do It (1993)

“Fool – you know how we do it…” 

“This Is How We Do It” from Ice Cube’s fourth album Lethal Injection (1993) is a spiritual successor to his iconic “It Was A Good Day.” This standout song captures the essence of West Coast Hip Hop with its smooth, laid-back groove and Ice Cube’s signature storytelling. The track’s infectious beat and catchy hook make it an instant crowd-pleaser, while Cube’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of life in South Central Los Angeles.

“This Is How We Do It” displays Ice Cube’s ability to balance his hard-hitting gangsta rap persona with more accessible, radio-friendly material. The song’s enduring popularity and its place in Ice Cube’s discography highlight his versatility as an artist and his knack for creating memorable Hip Hop anthems that appeal to a wide audience.

11. No Vaseline (1990)

“Goddamn, I’m glad y’all set it off / Used to be hard, now you’re just wet and soft…” 

“No Vaseline,” the closing track on Ice Cube’s seminal second solo album Death Certificate (1991), is one of the most scathing diss tracks in Hip Hop history. Following his acrimonious split from N.W.A and the subsequent jabs thrown at him on their N****z4Life album, Ice Cube unleashed a blistering response. The track’s raw intensity and unfiltered lyrics directly target his former groupmates and their manager, Jerry Heller.

Ice Cube’s razor-sharp wordplay and unapologetic delivery make “No Vaseline” a standout on Death Certificate and in the pantheon of Hip Hop diss tracks. The song’s impact reverberated through the Hip Hop community, solidifying Ice Cube’s position as a formidable solo artist and lyricist capable of holding his own against his former crew.

10. Once Upon A Time In The Projects (1990)

“I said ‘f***’ how much abuse can a n**** take / Hey yo officer you’re making a big mistake / Since I had on a shirt that said I was dope / He thought I was selling base and couldn’t hear my case…” 

“Once Upon A Time In The Projects” from AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted exemplifies Cube’s exceptional storytelling prowess. This track vividly paints a picture of life in the inner city, showcasing Cube’s ability to weave intricate narratives within his rhymes. This joint’s gritty realism and attention to detail transport listeners into the heart of the projects, offering a raw, unfiltered glimpse into urban life. Ice Cube’s sharp wit and observational skills shine through as he crafts a compelling tale that captures the struggles and experiences of those living in marginalized communities.

“Once Upon A Time In The Projects” is a prime example of Ice Cube’s talent for creating immersive, head-nodding Hip Hop while shedding light on important social issues.

9. Wicked (1992)

“People wanna know how come / I got a gat and I’m lookin out the window like Malcolm / Ready to bring that noise / Kinda trigger happy like the Geto Boys…” 

“Wicked,” from Ice Cube’s 1992 album The Predator, is a high-octane track that exemplifies his raw, uncompromising style. The song’s pulsating beat and Cube’s aggressive delivery create an explosive combination that captivates from start to finish. Ice Cube’s razor-sharp lyrics, filled with social commentary and street-wise observations, ride the intense instrumental with precision. The track’s infectious energy and memorable hook make it a standout in Ice Cube’s discography.

“Wicked” shows Ice Cube’s ability to craft hard-hitting Hip Hop anthems that resonate with hardcore fans and casual listeners alike. The song’s impact extends beyond its initial release, becoming a classic representation of early ’90s West Coast Hip Hop and solidifying Ice Cube’s status as one of the genre’s most formidable voices.

8. Steady Mobbin’ (1991)

“Four or five n***** in a mothership / Better known as a deuce and we all wanna smother sh**…” 

“Steady Mobbin’,” the lead single from Death Certificate, offers a vivid glimpse into life in South Central Los Angeles. This track is another dope sample of Ice Cube’s storytelling prowess, weaving a narrative that captures the essence of street life with unflinching realism. The song’s infectious beat, produced by DJ Pooh, provides a perfect backdrop for Ice Cube’s gritty lyrics. His flow rides the rhythm effortlessly, delivering sharp observations and street wisdom with his signature intensity. “Steady Mobbin’” encapsulates the raw energy and authenticity that defined West Coast Hip Hop in the early ’90s.

7. You Can’t Fade Me (1990)

“Now the taste of alcohol is filling up my bladder / What’s the date and time, it don’t matter / Had a pocket full of phone numbers, I was trying to sort / To make a long story short…” 

“You Can’t Fade Me” from AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted is a raw, unflinching narrative about an unexpected pregnancy. The track serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of safe sex. Ice Cube’s storytelling prowess shines through as he weaves a vivid, gritty account of the situation.

The song’s impact is amplified by its exceptional production, featuring a hard-hitting beat crafted by the legendary Bomb Squad, with additional contributions from Sir Jinx and Ice Cube himself. This collaboration results in a sonically powerful backdrop that perfectly complements Cube’s intense delivery.

6. Gangsta Rap Made Me Do It (2008)

“Thank God when I bless the mic / You finally get to hear the s*** that you like / A n**** talkin bout real life so you can try to get this s*** right / Use your brain not your back use your brain not a gat…”

“Gangsta Rap Made Me Do It,” the lead single from Ice Cube’s eighth studio album Raw Footage (2008), is a powerful critique of those who blame Hip Hop for society’s ills. In this track, Ice Cube confronts the notion of gangsta rap as a scapegoat for societal problems, delivering his message with his signature sharp wit and incisive lyricism.

The song’s production, featuring a hard-hitting beat and ominous synths, provides a fitting backdrop for Cube’s forceful delivery. Whether or not listeners agree with Ice Cube’s perspective, the track’s sonic quality is undeniable.

5. Check Yo Self ft Das EFX (1992)

“I make dough but don’t call me Dough Boy / This ain’t no f****** motion picture…”

“Check Yo Self,” featuring Das EFX, is a standout track from The Predator. This hit single cleverly samples Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five‘s iconic “The Message,” creating a powerful foundation for Ice Cube’s hard-hitting lyrics. Das EFX’s distinctive style adds an extra layer of energy to the song, their rapid-fire delivery contrasting with Ice Cube’s measured flow. The track’s message of self-reflection and accountability resonates strongly, while its catchy hook ensures its place in Hip Hop history.

4. Jackin’ For Beats (1990)

“Gimme that bass, and don’t try to run up / Cause you’ll get banked somethin sweet / Ice Cube and the Lench Mob, is jackin for beats…” 

“Jackin’ For Beats,” from Ice Cube’s 1990 EP Kill At Will, is a bold and innovative track. Following the massive success of AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted, this song demonstrates Ice Cube’s ability to creatively repurpose popular beats from other artists. The track cleverly incorporates elements from numerous Hip Hop classics, including D-Nice’s “Call Me D-Nice,” EPMD’s “So Whatcha Sayin’,” Public Enemy’s “Welcome to the Terrordome,” and Digital Underground’s “The Humpty Dance,” among others. Ice Cube’s skillful integration of these diverse samples creates a unique track that pays homage to his contemporaries while asserting his own artistic vision at the same time.

3. Color Blind ft Threat, Kam, J-Dee, King T, Coolio & WC (1991)

“Here’s another day at the stoplight / I’m lookin’ in my mirror so I can see who can see me / South Central is puttin Ice Cube to the test / With four brothers in the SS…” 

“Color Blind,” from Death Certificate, is a powerful collaboration featuring an all-star lineup of West Coast Hip Hop talent. The track brings together Threat, Kam, J-Dee, King T, Coolio, and WC, creating a formidable ensemble that delivers a hard-hitting message about racial unity. Each artist contributes their unique style and perspective, resulting in a dynamic and multi-layered song.

2. Dead Homiez (1990)

“Up early in the morning, dressed in black / Don’t ask why? Cause I’m down in a suit and tie / They killed a homie that I went to school with (Damn!) / I tell ya life ain’t sh** to fool with…” 

“Dead Homiez,” like “Jackin’ For Beats” from Ice Cube’s 1990 EP Kill At Will, offers a poignant and introspective look at the harsh realities of street life. This track stands out for its emotional depth, providing a stark contrast to the often glorified violence in gangsta rap. Ice Cube’s raw, honest lyrics paint a vivid picture of loss and mourning, giving voice to the pain experienced in communities plagued by violence.

The song’s somber tone and reflective narrative demonstrate Ice Cube’s versatility as an artist, showcasing his ability to tackle sensitive subjects with authenticity and respect. “Dead Homiez” is a powerful reminder of the human cost of street violence, offering listeners a moment of reflection amidst the more aggressive tracks on the EP.

1. It Was A Good Day (1992)

“Just waking up in the morning, gotta thank God / I don’t know but today seems kinda odd / No barking from the dog, no smog / And momma cooked a breakfast with no hog…”

“It Was A Good Day,” released in 1992 from The Predator, is the undisputed pinnacle of his musical career. This iconic track transcends being merely Ice Cube’s finest work; it has become a defining anthem in Hip Hop culture. The song’s laid-back groove, coupled with Ice Cube’s vivid storytelling, paints a picture of an ideal day in South Central Los Angeles.

Its universal appeal lies in the contrast between the peaceful day described and the often harsh realities of urban life. Ice Cube’s lyrics detail simple pleasures and moments of respite from the daily struggles, resonating with listeners from all walks of life. The track’s smooth production, sampling The Isley Brothers’ “Footsteps in the Dark,” provides a perfect backdrop for Ice Cube’s relaxed flow.

The track’s ability to balance Ice Cube’s hard-edged persona with a more reflective, optimistic outlook demonstrates his versatility as an artist. It flaunts his skill in crafting narratives that are both personal and universally relatable. “It Was A Good Day” remains a timeless piece of Hip Hop artistry, encapsulating a moment in time while continuing to resonate with new generations of listeners.