Ice Cube, born O'Shea Jackson, is an American rapper, actor, and filmmaker who rose to fame as a founding member of N.W.A., one of the most influential groups in hip-hop history. Known for his aggressive lyrics and unapologetic stance on social issues, Ice Cube is a pioneer of West Coast rap and gangsta rap. Beyond music, he has had a successful career in Hollywood as an actor, writer, and producer, making him a multifaceted cultural icon.
1986: Joins the group C.I.A. with Dr. Dre, releasing singles that gain attention in the Los Angeles rap scene.
1988: Co-founds N.W.A. with Dr. Dre, Eazy-E, DJ Yella, and MC Ren. The group releases Straight Outta Compton, an album that defines gangsta rap and draws controversy for its depiction of police violence and life in South Central L.A.
1989: Leaves N.W.A. over financial disputes and begins his solo career, working with The Bomb Squad, the production team behind Public Enemy.
1990: Releases debut solo album AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted, which receives critical acclaim for its political and social commentary.
1991: Releases Death Certificate, addressing racial and social issues. The album is controversial but solidifies his reputation as a fearless artist.
1992: Makes his film debut in Boyz n the Hood, directed by John Singleton. His performance as Doughboy earns him critical acclaim and leads to further acting opportunities.
1995: Writes and stars in Friday, a comedy that becomes a cult classic and leads to a successful film franchise.
1998: Releases War & Peace Vol. 1 (The War Disc), marking his return to music after focusing on acting.
2000s: Continues to release albums, including Laugh Now, Cry Later and Raw Footage, and appears in films like Barbershop and Are We There Yet?, showcasing his versatility as an actor and producer.
2015: Co-produces Straight Outta Compton, a biographical film about N.W.A., which becomes a box-office hit and receives critical acclaim.
NWA: Co-founder and lyricist, helping to shape the sound and message of gangsta rap.
Known for collaborations with Public Enemy’s production team, The Bomb Squad, during his early solo career.
Worked with various artists in hip-hop, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Mack 10, with whom he formed the supergroup Westside Connection.
Ice Cube has been nominated for Grammy Awards but has not won any. Despite this, his impact on hip-hop and popular culture is widely recognized and celebrated.
1989: Leaves N.W.A. over disputes with Eazy-E and manager Jerry Heller, leading to the release of "No Vaseline," a diss track aimed at his former group.
1991: Death Certificate stirs controversy for its lyrics and themes, with some critics accusing him of promoting violence and racism.
2015: His film Straight Outta Compton reignites interest in N.W.A.’s legacy and introduces a new generation to the origins of gangsta rap.