The Essentials
Ice Cube · 2008
71 min · 18 tracks · gangsta rap · hardcore hip-hop · West Coast hip-hop
A curated collection of Ice Cube's raw storytelling and hard-hitting beats that captures the essence of West Coast rap.
Why this album works
- Best for
- dynamic flow with emotional peaks raw storytelling that resonates deeply for late-night drives
- Context
- By 2008, Ice Cube was well-established as a prominent figure in hip-hop, having transitioned from N.W.A to a successful solo career. 'The Essentials' serves as a retrospective that encapsulates his influential work, following the release of his album 'Raw Footage' in 2008 just months prior, showcasing his continued relevance in the genre.
- If you like
- gangsta rap, hardcore hip-hop, West Coast hip-hop
The Essentials is an album by Ice Cube, released in 2008. A curated collection of Ice Cube's raw storytelling and hard-hitting beats that captures the essence of West Coast rap. This compilation highlights Ice Cube's significant impact on gangsta rap, featuring tracks that have become staples within the genre. It includes classics like 'It Was a Good Day,' which not only charted but also became emblematic of the West Coast lifestyle and its narratives. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Essentials sound like?
A curated collection of Ice Cube's raw storytelling and hard-hitting beats that captures the essence of West Coast rap. Rooted in gangsta rap and hardcore hip-hop.
What makes The Essentials by Ice Cube notable?
This compilation highlights Ice Cube's significant impact on gangsta rap, featuring tracks that have become staples within the genre. It includes classics like 'It Was a Good Day,' which not only charted but also became emblematic of the West Coast lifestyle and its narratives. By 2008, Ice Cube was well-established as a prominent figure in hip-hop, having transitioned from N.W.A to a successful solo career. 'The Essentials' serves as a retrospective that encapsulates his influential work, following the release of his album 'Raw Footage' in 2008 just months prior, showcasing his continued relevance in the genre.
Who is The Essentials for?
The Essentials works well if you're into dynamic flow with emotional peaks, raw storytelling that resonates deeply and for late-night drives.
How many songs are on The Essentials?
The Essentials has 18 tracks, running approximately 71 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Go to Church 3:51
- 2 A Bird in the Hand 2:12
- 3 Ghetto Vet Standout 4:38
- 4 Greed 4:28
- 5 Supreme Hustle 3:37
- 6 It Was a Good Day Standout 4:20
- 7 Spittin’ Pollaseeds 5:02
- 8 Rollin’ Wit the Lench Mob 3:44
- 9 The Wrong Nigga to Fuck Wit 2:49
- 10 When Will They Shoot? 4:35
- 11 Why We Thugs / Smoke Some Weed (live) 6:15
- 12 Givin’ Up the Nappy Dugout 4:13
- 13 A Gangsta’s Fairytale 3:01
- 14 Check Yo Self Standout 3:42
- 15 What Can I Do? 4:20
- 16 War & Peace 2:58
- 17 Dead Homiez 3:53
- 18 Cold Places 4:13
Release Date
September 16, 2008
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
71 min 59 sec
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