War & Peace Vol. 1 cover

War & Peace Vol. 1

Ice Cube · 1998

70 min · 18 tracks · gangsta rap · hardcore hip-hop · West Coast hip-hop

A reflective blend of hard-hitting beats and introspective lyrics, capturing the duality of street life and personal struggle.

Why this album works

'War & Peace Vol. 1' debuted at number four on the Billboard 200 and received critical acclaim for its lyrical depth, illustrating Ice Cube's ability to blend gangsta rap with social commentary. The album's exploration of wealth, violence, and identity resonated with audiences, solidifying Ice Cube's place in hip-hop history during an era marked by significant cultural shifts.
Best for
steady pacing for reflective moments introspective themes of personal struggle consistent flow with emotional peaks
Context
By the time 'War & Peace Vol. 1' was released in November 1998, Ice Cube was a seasoned artist with a successful solo career following his departure from N.W.A. This album arrived after his commercial peak with 'Lethal Injection' (1993) and showcased his evolution into a more mature, politically aware rapper grappling with complex themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Dr. Dre· Arabian Prince· Too Short

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Ask About Me 3:04
  • 2 Pushin’ Weight Standout 4:34
  • 3 Dr. Frankenstein 4:54
  • 4 Fuck Dying Standout 4:03
  • 5 War & Peace 3:17
  • 6 Ghetto Vet 5:04
  • 7 Greed 4:28
  • 8 MP 0:49
  • 9 Cash Over Ass 4:21
  • 10 The Curse of Money 3:39
  • 11 The Peckin’ Order 3:20
  • 12 Limos, Demos & Bimbos 3:50
  • 13 Once Upon a Time in the Projects 2 Standout 3:04
  • 14 If I Was Fuckin’ You 3:28
  • 15 X‐Bitches 4:58
  • 16 Extradition 4:43
  • 17 3 Strikes You In 4:28
  • 18 Penitentiary 4:12

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata