Ice Cube’s first solo album in six years, “Man Down,” is making waves, debuting at #2 on iTunes’ Hip-Hop/Rap Album Chart, just behind Kendrick Lamar’s “GNX” and ahead of Nicki Minaj’s “The Pinkprint” and GloRilla’s “Glorious.”
As the album celebrates its top 5 success, Ice Cube drops the anticipated music video for “Ego Maniacs,” featuring powerhouse collaborators Killer Mike and Busta Rhymes.
The Gabriel “Video God” Hart-directed black-and-white visuals of Cube’s “Ego Maniacs” are accented with bold pops of color, highlighting Cube’s iconic blue fur coat, Killer Mike’s red varsity jacket, and different visuals throughout.
The backgrounds behind each lyricist celebrate their roots as they rap about the elements that shape their egos.
Killer Mike’s Atlanta features landmarks like “Killer House” (a nod to Waffle House) and “Killer Kreme” (inspired by Krispy Kreme). Ice Cube pays homage to Los Angeles, from Randy’s Donuts and Dodger Stadium to his childhood street, Van Wick Street. Busta Rhymes’ New York roots shine underground at the subway station on 1520 Sedgwick Avenue.
Each setting amplifies the personal and cultural influences behind their verses. The visual for “Ego Maniacs” has already seen more than a million views in twenty-four hours.
Press play and watch “Ego Maniacs” below.