Ice Cube's first Solo LP ‘Amerikkka's Most Wanted turns 30
1990's: AMW ruled the world
Cube's first solo album, AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted, was released in 1990. Following the tragic break up of N.W.A., this album’s unexpected commercial and critical success not only set the tone for Ice Cube’s solo career but was also a launching pad toward success. A majority of the production was done by rap group Public Enemy’s production team, The Bomb Squad, while members from Ice Cube’s new crew, Da Lench Mob, made vocal appearances on the album. All told, the album was an impressive debut; since its release, critics have praised it for its uncompromising sociopolitical approach to urban and black culture, despite controversial content similar to that ofStraight Outta Compton. It was certified platinum and is considered an essential and classic hip-hop album by many.