Ice Cube is one of the founding artists of gangsta rap, and much of his musical output has contained harsh socio-political commentary. He was ranked number 8 on MTV's list of the 10 Greatest MCs of All Time, while fellow rapper Snoop Dogg ranked Ice Cube as one of the greatest MC of all time. AllMusic has called him one of hip-hop's best and most controversial artists, as well as "one of rap's greatest storytellers". In 2012, The Source ranked him number 14 on their list of the Top 50 Lyricists of All Time. In 2014, About.com ranked him number 11 on their list of the "50 Greatest MCs of All Time"
He released his solo debut album, "AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted," in 1990 to critical and commercial success, although upon its release he was accused of racism and misogyny. He has since released 1991's "Death Certificate", 1992's "The Predator", 1993's "Lethal Injection", 1998's "War & Peace Vol 1 (The War Disc)", 2000's "War & Peace Vol 2 (The Peace Disc)", 2006's "Laugh Now, Cry Later", 2008's "Raw Footage", and 2010's "I Am the West."
Ice Cube was raised in South Central by his parents, both of whom were employed at UCLA. He began writing raps while attending George Washington Preparatory High School in Westmont, California, most notably "Boyz 'N Tha Hood", which later became famous when done by N.W.A in 1986. Cube finished his schooling at William Howard Taft Charter High School in Woodland Hills, a predominately white neighborhood in San Fernando Valley, some 40 miles from the high-crime neighborhood where his family stayed.
Cube and a friend, Sir Jinx, rapped as a partnership called C.I.A. at parties hosted by Dr. Dre. After a brief stint in a group called "HBO", Cube showed Eazy-E "Boyz 'N Da Hood," and the pair, plus Dr. Dre, DJ Yella, The Arabian Prince and MC Ren, formed N.W.A.
Cube took one year off to earn a degree in architectural drafting in Phoenix in 1987 but returned in time to participate in N.W.A's debut album, Straight Outta Compton. The album attracted much notoriety for the group, from the FBI and concerned citizen and parent groups. Cube did the lead verse for the album's infamous track "Fuck tha Police."
Ice Cube left N.W.A due to financial and personality conflicts in 1989. With Da Lench Mob and the Bomb Squad (Public Enemy's producers), Cube recorded his debut album in New York City. AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted was released in 1990 and was an instantaneous hit as rap's popularity increased in mainstream society.
His 1991 follow-up, Death Certificate, was even more controversial. A few songs in the album featured Cube's hate of Uncle Sam and his politics, and a bonus track named "No Vaseline" was a diss to his former N.W.A bandmates. Also that year, he converted to the Nation of Islam. The album was re-released in 2003 with the bonus track "How to Survive in South Central," originally from the 1991 "Boyz N the Hood" soundtrack.
Controversy stirred about racist lyrics in his material: "Black Korea" (a song against Korean shopowners), referring to a former boss as "white Jew" in "No Vaseline", and songs such as "Enemy and Cave Bitch" (songs against "devils", a popular derogatory term at the time for white people). Partially to help deflect criticisms, Cube appointed a female rapper named Yo-Yo (who guested on AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted) to the head of his own record label and helped produce her debut album, Make Way for the Motherlode.
That was followed by Cube's acting breakout as the grown-up version of Darrin "Doughboy" Baker in the 1991 coming of age crime drama "Boyz in the Hood." Writer and director John Singleton, another LA native, penned the role specifically Cube. Ice Cube was later named "Most Promising Actor" at the 4th Chicago Film Critics Association Awards in 1992, beating out his co-star Cuba Gooding Jr. and newcomer Brad Pitt from "Thelma and Louise."
Cube toured on Lollapalooza in 1992 and widened his fan base. He released The Predator in November (1992) which debuted at #1 on both the pop and rnb charts, the first album in history to do so. For that album, Cube decided to load some G-funk style beats which at that time was the big thing and some remix tunes which brought a new style to Cube, in which previously he had released some hardcore and extreme work. Singles from The Predator included "Today was a Good Day" and "Check Yo Self (remix)" which all had a 2 part music video.
After The Predator, Cube's audience began to diminish. Lethal Injection (1993) was not very well-liked by critics, and Dr. Dre and the West Coast G-Funk sound was dominating hip-hop. It wasn't until later that the album became popular. Taking a break from his own albums, Cube assisted on debuts from Da Lench Mob (Guerillas in the Mist) and Kam (Neva Again). He later dueted with Dr. Dre on "Natural Born Killaz."
Around this time in 1993, Ice Cube also worked with soon-to-be-acclaimed rapper Tupac Shakur with his album Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z. and appeared on a track with 2pac.
In 1994 Ice Cube released Bootlegs & B-Sides.
During this time, hip-hop started making a transition from the West Coast Funk Hip-Hop to a more gritty East Coast hip-hop. With Mack 10 and WC, Cube formed the Westside Connection in 1996, releasing their debut album Bow Down later that year. This album was in due to Ice Cube's theory that the East Coast lacked respect for West Coast hip-hop. Songs like "Bow Down", and "Gangstas Make The World Go 'Round" make reference to this. Sales were brisk, but it did not establish a large audience. This album was later perceived as a classic, especially on the West Coast. Cube released several more solo albums; however, he is now known more for his movies than his music.
In 1998 Ice Cube released War & Peace Vol 1: The War Disc
In 2000 Ice Cube released War & Peace Vol 2: The Peace Disc
In 2003 Ice Cube along with W.C. & Mack 10 released Terrorist Threats as the West Side Connection.
In December 2004, after a long break from recording, he reached #2 in the UK singles chart with the club favourite, "You Can Do It" (featuring Mack 10 and Ms Toi), released as a single 5 years after it was first included on movie soundtracks such as
Ice Cube was influenced by and took his name from African American pimp-turned-author Iceberg Slim, who published his autobiography Pimp in 1969. At one point, Ice Cube was scheduled to play the lead role in a movie adaptation of Pimp, but the project appears to be halted.
Cube's oldest son, O'Shea Jackson Jr., made his feature film debut in the 2015 N.W.A biopic "Straight Outta Compton," portraying his father.
You Can Do It feat Mack 10 & Ms. Toi
Ice Cube Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Get your ass and hurra
Uh, Ice Cube baby
Ninety-nine baby
I'm on the grind baby
All the time baby
Show me something
I can do it put your ass into it
You can do it put your back into it
I can do it put your ass into it
Put your back into it
Put your ass into it
Tic-tic-boom
Hear me banging down these back streets
Bumpin' Blackstreet, fiending like an athlete
Life ain't a track meet (no)
It's a marathon
Fuck the cemetery that a nigga get buried on
We be clubbing till the day we die
Nigga ask the bartender if you think we lie
But if you think we high, nigga think again
Cause when it's sink or swim
You got to think to win
And if I drink this here
Everybody will know it
Cause I ain't going for it
So pray to the Lord that I don't pull out
Cuss out and bust out
Go to nigga raveling
Make the clip traveling, uh
You can try to smoke an ounce to this
While I pronounce this shit
Baby bounce them tits
Mama move them hips
Baby shake them cheeks
I got dick for days
You got ass for weeks, yeah, yeah
Don't stop get it, get it
(That's real)
Don't stop nigga hit it
(I will)
I'm gon' do it, gon' do it
Gon' do it, do it, do it
You can do it put your back into it
I can do it put your ass into it
You can do it put your back into it
I can do it put your ass into it
Put your back into it
Put your ass into it
Now all I want to do is have fun with my loved ones
The thug ones, relatives and my cousins
And I got 'em by the dozen
When they buzzin', quick to say fuck your husband
This is for my niggas locked away
Extra love for the ones who ain't got no date
But when we hit checkmate with Ice Cube the great
As soon as I get a word we can rush the safe
Fuck them license plates because life is great
It don't matter if you're rich and your folks ain't straight
I'm still coming with that underground gangsta shit
No matter how many niggas say we ain't the shit, bitch
Don't stop get it, get it
(That's real)
Don't stop nigga hit it
(I will)
I'm gon' do it, gon' do it
Gon' do it, do it, do it
You can do it put your back into it
I can do it put your ass into it
You can do it put your back into it
I can do it put your ass into it
Put your back into it
Put your ass into it
I do hard core rhyming, hard time grinding
With will I pimp hoes
Other niggas wine and dine them
Gotta love this pup shit
Passing the mud shit
Pockets on flood shit
O-G lyrical blood shit
I don't rent I buy shit
Niggas jealous of my shit
You unaware of this young nigga getting all the fly shit
While you're rooting and recruiting
Nigga 6-8 whooping
I was in the hood shooting cause I had the wife whooping
I come from padres gold in over-sized jars
I past up strife and got star awards
No time for playa hating, Mack paper chasing
Came out the substation to the hip hop nation
The mo' hits the mo' bigga with illegal weight figga
Done develop the status of a platinum plus nigga
Bust the first asshole to show I can hit it
I keep pushing, don't quit it
Don't stop till I get it
Don't stop get it, get it
(That's real)
Don't stop nigga hit it
(I will)
[Ice Cube]
I'm gon' do it, gon' do it
Gon' do it, do it, do it
You can do it put your back into it
I can do it put your ass into it
You can do it put your back into it
I can do it put your ass into it
You can do it put your back into it
I can do it put your ass into it
You can do it put your back into it
I can do it put your ass into it
Don't stop get it, get it
(That's real)
Don't stop nigga hit it
(I will)
I'm gon' do it, gon' do it
Gon' do it, do it, do it
You can do it put your back into it
I can do it put your ass into it
You can do it put your back into it
I can do it put your ass into it
Put your ass into it
We be clubbing
Freaky gyration is close to fornication
We be clubbing
Freaky gyration is close to fornication'
Yeah uh-huh, Ice Cube, Westside Connection
Know how we do'
We puttin' it down, constantly
Get your ass up and hurra
Ice Cube's song "You Can Do It" featuring Mack 10 is a motivational anthem that encourages listeners to work hard and be persistent in their pursuits. The lyrics are meant to inspire audiences to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals through unwavering effort and dedication. The song also touches on themes of clubbing, partying, and enjoying life to the fullest, highlighting the idea that hard work can coexist with fun and leisure activities.
The repetition of the phrases "you can do it" and "put your back into it" serve as a mantra to reinforce the message that success requires sustained effort and dedication. The verses narrate a tale of the struggles and triumphs of Ice Cube and Mack 10, who are able to overcome adversity through hard work and determination. The lyrics also touch on their relationships, emphasizing the importance of family and friends in motivating and supporting them through hard times.
Overall, "You Can Do It" is a powerful and energetic track that offers a positive message of empowerment to listeners. It encourages people to believe in themselves and their abilities and to persevere in the face of challenges. The song has become a popular anthem at sporting events, workout routines, and other contexts where individuals need a boost of motivational energy.
Line by Line Meaning
Yeah, yeah
Expressing enthusiasm and agreement.
Get your ass and hurra
Encouraging someone to get up and celebrate.
Uh, Ice Cube baby
Introducing Ice Cube as the artist.
Ninety-nine baby
Referring to the year the song was released (1999).
I'm on the grind baby
Working hard and staying focused.
All the time baby
Consistently and without pause.
Show me something
Implying the desire to see impressive skills or talent.
You can do it put your back into it
Encouraging someone to put effort and determination into achieving their goals.
I can do it put your ass into it
Expressing confidence in one's own ability to put forth effort and achieve success.
Tic-tic-boom
Creating a sense of anticipation and excitement.
Hear me banging down these back streets
Drawing attention to one's presence and impact in less prominent areas.
Bumpin' Blackstreet, fiending like an athlete
Listening to music by Blackstreet and experiencing intense desire or craving, similar to an athlete's determination.
Life ain't a track meet (no)
Life is not a short sprint, but a long and challenging journey.
It's a marathon
Emphasizing that life requires endurance and perseverance.
Fuck the cemetery that a nigga get buried on
Rejecting the notion of a premature death and refusing to be defeated.
We be clubbing till the day we die
Continuing to enjoy oneself and have fun until the very end.
Nigga ask the bartender if you think we lie
Challenging anyone who doubts their lifestyle by suggesting they ask a reliable source.
But if you think we high, nigga think again
Revealing that their state of mind is not influenced by drugs but rather their own determination and success.
Cause when it's sink or swim
Referring to a critical moment where one must either succeed or fail.
You got to think to win
Emphasizing the importance of strategy and smart decision-making in order to achieve victory.
And if I drink this here
Indicating the consumption of alcohol as a form of celebration or confidence-boosting.
Everybody will know it
Asserting that their actions and achievements will be widely recognized and acknowledged.
Cause I ain't going for it
Rejecting any doubts or attempts to undermine their success.
So pray to the Lord that I don't pull out
Warning others to hope they don't face the consequences of their actions.
Cuss out and bust out
Reacting angrily and forcefully if provoked.
Go to nigga raveling
Engaging in confrontations or confrontational situations.
Make the clip traveling, uh
Ensuring the ammunition or gun is ready for use and capable of firing.
You can try to smoke an ounce to this
Suggesting that the song is enjoyable and intoxicating, even without substances.
While I pronounce this shit
While Ice Cube expresses his opinions or thoughts in a direct and straightforward manner.
Baby bounce them tits
Encouraging female dancers to move their breasts sensually.
Mama move them hips
Encouraging female dancers to move their hips seductively.
Baby shake them cheeks
Encouraging female dancers to move their buttocks in a provocative manner.
I got dick for days
Boasting about having a large male genitalia.
You got ass for weeks, yeah, yeah
Acknowledging the attractiveness and desirability of the female dancers.
Now all I want to do is have fun with my loved ones
Expressing the desire to enjoy time with close friends and family.
The thug ones, relatives and my cousins
Referring to close friends, family members, and extended relatives.
And I got 'em by the dozen
Having an abundance of people who are loyal and supportive.
When they buzzin', quick to say fuck your husband
Reacting dismissively to the opinions or presence of someone's spouse or partner.
This is for my niggas locked away
Dedicated to incarcerated individuals and showing support for them.
Extra love for the ones who ain't got no date
Showing additional care and affection to those who are alone or without romantic companionship.
But when we hit checkmate with Ice Cube the great
When they achieve a position of power and success as represented by Ice Cube.
As soon as I get a word we can rush the safe
Once they receive information or intel, they can quickly take action and seize opportunities.
Fuck them license plates because life is great
Disregarding societal norms and constraints because they are content with their current lifestyle.
It don't matter if you're rich and your folks ain't straight
Indicating that wealth and family background are not the sole determinants of happiness and satisfaction.
I'm still coming with that underground gangsta shit
Continuing to produce and present authentic, gritty, and raw gangster-themed music.
No matter how many niggas say we ain't the shit, bitch
Ignoring critics and detractors who claim they are not successful or talented.
I do hard-core rhyming, hard time grinding
Engaging in intense and skillful lyrical composition and working tirelessly to achieve success.
With will I pimp hoes
Asserting dominance and control over women or being highly skilled in attracting and seducing them.
Other niggas wine and dine them
Contrasting himself with other men who rely on romantic gestures and gifts.
Gotta love this pup shit
Appreciating and enjoying the fast-paced and energetic lifestyle.
Passing the mud shit
Overcoming difficult and challenging situations.
Pockets on flood shit
Having a substantial amount of money or wealth.
O-G lyrical blood shit
Being an established and respected figure in the rap game known for powerful and meaningful lyrics.
I don't rent I buy shit
Investing in own possessions and assets rather than constantly spending on temporary items.
Niggas jealous of my shit
Experiencing envy and resentment from others due to his success and status.
You unaware of this young nigga getting all the fly shit
Highlighting his ability to acquire highly desirable and fashionable items.
While you're rooting and recruiting
While others are trying to attract and involve people in their endeavors.
Nigga 6-8 whooping
Being six feet eight inches tall and intimidating or dominating others physically.
I was in the hood shooting cause I had the wife whooping
Spending time in the neighborhood, engaging in risky or dangerous activities, and impressing women.
I come from padres gold in over-sized jars
Referring to originating from a notable place (possibly a gang) with significant influence and wealth.
I past up strife and got star awards
Overcoming or avoiding conflict and earning recognition and success.
No time for playa hating, Mack paper chasing
Remaining focused on personal goals and pursuing financial success instead of envying or criticizing others.
Came out the substation to the hip hop nation
Emerging from a lesser-known or underground background to gain popularity and recognition within the rap community.
The mo' hits the mo' bigga with illegal weight figga
The more successful they become, the more significant their influence and connections in illegal activities become.
Done develop the status of a platinum plus nigga
Achieving a high level of success and recognition in the music industry.
Bust the first asshole to show I can hit it
Proving one's ability to succeed and overcome challenges by defeating their adversaries.
I keep pushing, don't quit it
Continuing to work hard and remain determined without giving up.
Don't stop till I get it
Persevering until one accomplishes their goals or achieves what they desire.
Put your ass into it
Exerting maximum effort and dedication.
We be clubbing
Enjoying the nightlife and partying at clubs.
Freaky gyration is close to fornication
Engaging in suggestive and provocative dance moves that resemble sexual activity.
We be clubbing
Continuing to enjoy the party atmosphere and engage in provocative dancing.
Freaky gyration is close to fornication'
Reiterating the connection between suggestive dancing and sexual activity.
Yeah uh-huh, Ice Cube, Westside Connection
Acknowledging Ice Cube and his association with Westside Connection.
Know how we do'
Asserting their understanding and familiarity with their lifestyle and way of doing things.
We puttin' it down, constantly
Continuously making an impact and remaining influential.
Get your ass up and hurra
Motivating and encouraging others to stand up and celebrate.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA/AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@tootrobinson2261
Who still listening wit me in 2024
@djpixi2151
😎✌️
@weesh10
Always
@zakzakzak510
Still from Algeria
@Tlazocamati365
Right here mama
@EIERDIEB79
Jo
@Promiseisme01
Who thinks this song is still fire 🔥
@dizziemisslizzie9884
👍👍👍👍👍
I still turn it up!
@brianjohnson4929
.....word.
@deatha1310
Bria Jones me