Name ten of the greatest rappers of all time, and your list is incomplete without Ice Cube.Â
Straight Outta Compton to the glare of the whole world, Los Angeles-born O’Shea Jackson, known more commonly by his stage name, Ice Cube, set the record straight since the late eighties as lyricist and lead rapper for acclaimed West Coast rap group N.W.A. that he did not come to play around in the rap game. Ice Cube’s raw, unpretentious lyrical content and flagrant audacity to creatively articulate over a rhythm and a beat about social issues garnered for himself massive notoriety and the keen attentiveness of law enforcement. Ice Cube went on to pursue a solo career, releasing his iconic debut album, “AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted” in 1990. Almost four decades now in the game, and Ice Cube is still cool as an ice cube in the game.
Ice Cube is not only a rapper. He is a songwriter, actor, and film producer. He has made epic appearances in movies such as “Boyz n the Hood,” “Barbershop” and “Straight Outta Compton.” Known also for activism and for being very vocal and assertive about racial rights and black empowerment, Ice Cube’s reach as a public influencer is extensive. His success in music and film and endorsements from mega brands such as Coors Light and St. Ides have sponsored his equally ingenious entrepreneurial involvement.
Here are five companies owned by the Hip-Hop legend.
Cube Vision
Cube Vision, Inc. is an American film and television production company founded by Jackson and Matt Alvarez. Over a score of movies and television programs have been released via this platform.
Big3 is a 3-on-3 basketball league founded by Jackson and entertainment executive Jeff Kwatinetz in 2017. The league consists of 12 teams whose rosters include former NBA and international players. In 2022, BIG3 became the first professional sports league to be certified as a Black-owned and operated business by ByBlack and US Black Chambers, Inc.
Fifth Generation
Cube launched his brand of E&J Brandy called “Fifth Generation,” which he co-owns with his business partner, Jeff Kwatinetz.
Lench Mob Records
Initially founded in 1990 as Street Knowledge Records, Lench Mob Records is a record label the Hip-hop legend owns.
Solo by Ice Cube
Via his website, icecube.com, the rapper has hoodies, T-shirts, and other menswear for sale.
