Flashback Friday -Ice Cube
When The Music Hits Presents:
Flashback Friday
Ah, the early 90’s. While the rap scene was going strong and taking over the music of choice in my neighborhood as well as on my MTV, my cracker ass was banging my head and hating anything without a guitar. Looking back, however, it’s probably a good thing I was a bit more mature when I was finally exposed to Ice Cube’s The Predator.
Reviewing Rap/Hip-Hop albums for me is one of the most difficult things I try to do. It kinda has to do with the fact that I can’t really say I can relate to the messages conveyed or the perspectives given. While I like to think I am a little more in tune with the “inner city” life than a lot of suburban america I’ve still never had to deal with anything close to what is discussed on album’s like this one. An album that fully encapsulates the racial tension in the country, especially after the L.A. Riots following the Rodney King verdict. From the opener The First Day of School, through the closer Say Hi To The Bad Guy, there is not one wasted track on this album. Each is perfectly crafted and many, though not all, are examples of life in the black community and the hypocrisy of America. Especially important on this album are the audio inserts from interviews and news reports as they help make the album a document of the times. I’m sure many of you have heard 1 or 2 tracks off this album but if you’ve never heard the whole thing all the way through I’ve made it nice and easy for you. Just click the little video below. At least give it through It Was A Good Day, you might learn something.
Track Listing
The First Day of School (Intro)*
When Will They Shoot?*
I’m Scared (Insert)*
Wicked*
Now I Gotta Wet ‘Cha*
The Predator*
It Was A Good Day*
We Had To Tear This Mothafucka Up*
Fuck ‘Em (Insert)*
Dirty Mack*
Don’t Trust ‘Em*
Gangsta’s Fairytale 2*
Check Yo Self Feat. Das EFX*
Who Got The Camera?*
Integration (Insert)*
Say Hi To The Bad Guy*