In a recent interview during his visit to London, rap legend Ice Cube delved into the evolution of hip-hop and his rapidly expanding 3-on-3 basketball league, The Big 3.

As 2023 marks 50 years since DJ Kool Herc and Cindy Campbell’s Back To School Jam at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue, Ice Cube acknowledged the significant impact hip-hop has had globally. Reflecting on his own journey, Ice Cube’s trajectory spans from a rap superstar to a multifaceted artist involved in screenwriting, directing, producing, and even founding The Big 3.

The Big 3, a 3-on-3 basketball league featuring former NBA players and international basketball stars, has rapidly gained popularity, completing its sixth tournament with a special Championship match at London’s O2 in Greenwich. Ice Cube, alongside Cypress Hill and The Game, is set to embark on a six-date UK and Ireland tour next month.

In our conversation with Ice Cube, he shared the inspiration behind founding The Big 3, citing his love for basketball and the desire to fill the downtime between the NBA and American football seasons. The league, initiated in 2017, has garnered attention for its innovative approach, incorporating Hall-of-Famers and former NBA players, and exploring uncharted territories in sports entertainment.

Discussing the decision to host The Big 3 Championship in London, Ice Cube emphasized the league’s vision of basketball as an international sport. He expressed the hope of expanding to cities worldwide, including London, Paris, Toronto, and Mexico City, envisioning a future where The Big 3 could have a global impact similar to the World Cup in soccer.

Reflecting on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, Ice Cube underscored the importance of acknowledging all elements of the culture, not just rap. He emphasized the equal significance of DJing, dancing, and graffiti, highlighting the evolving landscape of hip-hop’s influence on various artistic expressions.

Ice Cube praised the positive changes in hip-hop over the past 50 years, particularly the sustainable industries it has created, allowing individuals to make a living from music-related endeavors. From its humble beginnings in the streets and parks, hip-hop has elevated to penthouses, offering opportunities for countless artists.

As Ice Cube transitioned from a rebellious young gun in NWA to an influential figure in the industry, he noted the shift occurred around ’97 or ’98 when peers sought his advice. Despite being frequently asked about his groundbreaking albums like “Straight Outta Compton” or “Amerikkka’s Most Wanted,” Ice Cube remains focused on the present and continues to create new music. He views art as a timeless expression, understanding that reactions to it may come at different times.

Looking ahead to his upcoming UK tour in December, Ice Cube expressed the challenge of selecting tracks from his extensive catalog but aims to provide a dynamic and fresh experience for the audience. He emphasized the importance of staying present, executing plans, and avoiding excessive nostalgia, asserting that patting oneself on the back for past achievements holds little value for tomorrow.

Ice Cube, along with Cypress Hill and The Game, is set to deliver an unforgettable experience on the ‘High Rollers’ tour, showcasing a blend of West Coast vibes and iconic hits across six cities in the UK and Ireland. As an artist, entrepreneur, and visionary, Ice Cube continues to shape the cultural landscape, leaving an indelible mark on both hip-hop and sports entertainment.