In a candid interview, the iconic rapper discusses the thought-provoking nature of his artistry and his admiration for Kendrick Lamar’s influence on the genre.
In a recent interview with SiriusXM’s Rock the Bells Radio, Ice Cube addressed his provocative claim in the new song “It’s My Ego,” where he asserts he is “Kendrick before Kendrick.” The 55-year-old rapper elaborated on this comparison, describing himself as a “provocative artist” who expresses his feelings candidly and critiques systemic issues facing Black Americans. He emphasized, “I think he’s the same kind of artist: a thought-provoking artist. I was that before he was.”
For those less familiar with his extensive catalog, Ice Cube is not only a prominent figure in contemporary hip-hop but also a pivotal player in its history. As a founding member of N.W.A., he played a crucial role in shaping the genre during the late ’80s and ’90s, cementing his status with seven consecutive albums that reached either No. 1 or No. 2 on Billboard’s R&B charts, alongside nine top 10 singles on the rap charts. This legacy sets the foundation for his recent comments regarding Kendrick Lamar, 37, a fellow artist known for his provocative and introspective lyricism.
Ice Cube’s admiration for Lamar is evident, particularly regarding the ongoing feud with Drake. Earlier this year, he voiced his support for the rivalry, stating, “I approve of the beef. I always approve of rap battles. That’s the essence of the game.” He noted that as long as the conflicts remain verbal, they contribute to the culture, stating, “When it gets physical, that’s just street crime.” Reflecting on their exchanges, Cube remarked, “I think Kendrick is up, I think he’s landed the more hard and effective punches, so to speak.”
In his new single “It’s My Ego,” Ice Cube draws parallels not only to Kendrick Lamar but also to rock legends, rapping, “Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, like Jimi Hendrix.” The track showcases his trademark style, filled with cultural references and sharp commentary, sampling Al Green’s classic “Love and Happiness” and nodding to a viral Oscars moment with the line, “I’ll smack your ass, like Will did Chris.”
This single marks the lead-up to his upcoming album, Man Down, set for release on November 22. This will be Cube’s first solo record since Everythang’s Corrupt in 2018, following his collaboration with the supergroup Mount Westmore, which includes Snoop Dogg, E-40, and Too Short. Notably, that album was released via blockchain, demonstrating Cube’s knack for innovative business ventures in the music industry.
Ice Cube’s reflection on his artistry and its parallels with Kendrick Lamar underscores his lasting influence in hip-hop. As he prepares to drop new music, Cube remains a significant figure, bridging the gap between generations of artists while continuing to provoke thought and discussion through his lyrics. His acknowledgment of the evolution of rap and the importance of healthy competition highlights a legacy built on resilience, creativity, and a commitment to authenticity in storytelling.