Ice Cube’s Good Day in Ottawa

Saturday night treated hip-hop fans to everything they could have hoped for as Ice Cube’s Straight Into Canada Tour stormed into TD Place in Ottawa.

From the opening acts to Cube’s electrifying performance, the night was a nostalgia-filled journey that honored his iconic status as a legend of west coast hip-hop and underscored his raw talent and enduring charisma.

Kicking off the night was Peter Jackson. Sporting an Ottawa 67s jersey, his gritty energy and dynamic stage presence set the perfect tone for the main event. His rendition of “All I Ever Wanted” provided a touching change of pace as he paid tribute to his late father.

Following suit, the legendary Xzibit delivered with his rugged flow and unapologetic style. From “Paparazzi” to “X”, Xzibit’s set was a masterclass in stage presence, commanding the audience’s attention with his raw lyricism and captivating performance.

As Ice Cube took center stage, a raucous crowd prepared for a journey through one of hip-hop’s most storied careers. Joined by WC, Cube dominated with his talent and energy, effortlessly blending classics like “Check Yo’ Self” and “Ghetto Bird” with newer hits like “Why We Thugs”. And, of course, the night wouldn’t be complete without delving into some N.W.A classics. Commanding the stage with the presence of a true hip-hop legend, Cube closed his set with fan favorites “You Can Do It” and “It Was A Good Day.”

A native of Los Angeles, Ice Cube’s lyrics on N.W.A’s 1988 album Straight Outta Compton contributed to gangsta rap’s widespread popularity. Credited with shaping the early identity of West Coast hip-hop, Ice Cube was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of N.W.A in 2016.

What set Ice Cube’s performance apart was his unapologetic authenticity and connection with the audience, as he reflected on his storied career. After performing “No Vaseline”, Cube even took time to remind the crowd that it is his record, not “Hit Em Up” by Tupac or “Ether” by Nas, that is the greatest diss record of all time.

There is no doubt that Ice Cube’s Straight Into Canada Tour stop at TD Place was a rugged hip-hop spectacle that solidified his status as one of the true legends and OGs of west coast hip-hop. With an incredible lineup, a setlist filled with gritty hits, and moments of authentic connection, it was a night that celebrated the essence of hip-hop while paying homage to its enduring legacy. As fans departed the venue, they carried with them memories of a truly legendary experience that exemplified the unapologetic spirit of Ice Cube’s reign in hip-hop.

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