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Today in Hip-Hop History: Ice Cube Released His Third Album ‘The Predator’ 28 Years Ago

On this day in 1992, gangsta rapper turned actor/filmmaker Ice Cube released his most successful solo album The Predator. Released months after the 1992 Los Angeles riots, this album follows the…

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On this day in 1992, gangsta rapper turned actor/filmmaker Ice Cube released his most successful solo album The Predator. Released months after the 1992 Los Angeles riots, this album follows the same tone that existed in Ice Cube’s music from his solo beginning; Black power against any form of oppression. Although the album was very graphic, it still had a great reception among the commercial audience, debuting at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart (despite his blatant diss of the Billboard editor on the album’s title track) and selling 193,000 copies in its first week.

The mood of this album was set by the era of violence that was going on in Los Angeles, California. Every song has an element of the type of violence that was going on in the hood between and against Black people incorporated through interludes or references. Even his more peaceful tracks have an air of criminal paranoia about them. Regardless, The Predator is still slightly toned down from his prior two releases AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted and Death Certificate, which you can by the titles more outwardly push the militant mindset that Ice Cube has as a recording artist.

This album also toted two #1 rap singles, “It Was a Good Day” and “Check Yo Self”. “It Was a Good Day” is to date Ice Cube’s most successful single. The track peaked #15 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1993 and sold 600,000 copies. Outside of commercial success, this album is forever a part of pop culture history voted #8 on VH1‘s Top Rap Songs list. “Check Yo Self” was also ridiculously successful, selling 500,000 copies and peaking at #20 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The Predator LP is a masterpiece and has the sales to prove it. This album has so far gone double platinum and with the success of the film Straight Outta Compton, there is no reason why sales figures should not increase over the next few months. As anyone up-to-date in Hip Hop culture should know, with the success of this album, Ice Cube went on to be an entertainment mogul directing, writing and producing successful films, appearing on television, and releasing six more studio LPs that have all done pretty well in their sales all appearing on the Billboard 200 in the top 20%.

The post Today in Hip-Hop History: Ice Cube Released His Third Album ‘The Predator’ 28 Years Ago appeared first on The Source.

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Phlo-osophy shares a new single, “Scientist Mind (Living My Life)”

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Phlo-osophy’s “Scientist Mind (Living My Life)” is a thoughtful and relaxing meditation on intellect and existence, packaged with laid-back production that encourages both thought and comfort. The song starts with atmospheric synths and a low-key beat, creating a space that is the laboratory of contemplation.

Phlo-osophy’s lyrical style steers into tough concepts spontaneous physics of thought, the chemistry of emotion — and yet remains highly accessible. The production is the strength of the production: soft, warm textures, synth pads, muted guitar echoes, quiet electronic pulses, cohere into a hushed, private atmosphere.

The result is a song that teeters between heady curiosity and soulful expression. It’s not out to swamp us with complexity, but to suggest a room in which mind and emotion can cohabitate thoughtfully. “Scientist Mind (Living My Life)” serves as a signal of Phlo-osophy’s approach as an enlightening artist who writes not only with heart, but with mind and who welcomes the listener on its journey of self-discovery.

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Police Scanner Audio Suggests Lil Nas X May Have Been Tased During Bizarre Studio City Arrest

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Last week, an unexpected and surprising situation unfolded involving rapper Lil Nas X. Reports from police audio shared by TMZ reveal a dramatic scene where the Grammy-winning artist was allegedly found walking naked near Universal Studios. This led to police being called to intervene. According to the recordings, things escalated quickly, with indications that officers may have used a taser as Lil Nas ran towards them. As a result of this incident, Nas spent the weekend in jail and appeared in court on Monday, where he pleaded not guilty.

He was later released after paying $75,000 in bail. The details from the police recordings provide a rare glimpse into this intense moment that led to his arrest. Sharing a more personal view, Nas’ father, Robert Stafford, spoke to TMZ, reporting that his son is doing well. “He’s great. God is good, God has a plan. I think you all know everything that you need to know about what happened Thursday,” Stafford stated, showing his faith and support. He reassured fans that Nas is feeling remorseful about the incident, but emphasized that challenges can happen to any family.

He added that Nas is getting the help he needs and encouraged everyone to keep him in their thoughts and prayers. This unfolding story has gained a lot of attention, partly because it provides insight into a part of celebrity life that people don’t usually see. While news often focuses on the finished stories, these police recordings show events as they actually happened, making the situation feel more real and striking. As the legal process continues, many are watching to see what will happen next for Nas, both in his personal life and career.

The police audio serves as a strong reminder of how quickly life can take unexpected turns, even for well-known figures in music. With the support of his family and a focus on moving forward, Nas seems ready to handle this challenging time with responsibility and dignity. This unusual incident highlights the human side of celebrity news, reminding fans that there’s always more to a story than what’s seen in the headlines.

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