Ice-T is a rapper, actor, and producer who has been an influential figure in the hip-hop world since the 1980s. He was born Tracy Marrow on February 16, 1958 in Newark, New Jersey, and grew up in Los Angeles, California.
Ice-T began his musical career in the early 1980s as a member of the group The Rhyme Syndicate, which also included other notable rappers such as Kool G Rap and Melle Mel. In 1983, he released his first single, “Cold Wind Madness,” which was followed by his debut album, “Rhyme Pays,” in 1987.
“Rhyme Pays” was a commercial and critical success, featuring the hit single “6 in the Mornin’,” which helped establish Ice-T as a major figure in the emerging gangsta rap scene. The album’s aggressive, streetwise lyrics and hard-hitting beats earned Ice-T a reputation as one of the most controversial and influential rappers of his time.
Ice-T’s next few albums, including “Power,” “The Iceberg/Freedom of Speech… Just Watch What You Say,” and “O.G. Original Gangster,” continued to showcase his raw, uncompromising style and socially conscious lyrics. He was known for addressing issues such as police brutality, poverty, and the realities of inner-city life, and his music often drew controversy for its confrontational and unapologetic approach.
In addition to his music career, Ice-T has also acted in numerous films and TV shows, including “New Jack City,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” and “Tank Girl.” He has also written several books, including his autobiography, “Ice: A Memoir of Gangster Life and Redemption—from South Central to Hollywood.”
Over the years, Ice-T has continued to be a significant figure in the hip-hop world, collaborating with other artists and using his platform to advocate for social justice and change. His influence can be heard in the work of countless rappers who followed in his footsteps, and he remains a respected and admired figure in the music industry to this day.
