“Ice Ice Baby” is a hip-hop and rap classic by Vanilla Ice, released in August 1990 as the lead single from his debut album To the Extreme. It became the first hip-hop song to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, helping to bring rap into the mainstream.
Ice Ice Baby is a braggadocious and energetic rap about street life, parties, and Ice’s own persona. The lyrics reference his experiences in Miami, including lines about fast cars, crime, and living large. The famous opening line “Alright, stop, collaborate and listen” became one of the most recognizable rap hooks ever.
Musically, the song is built around a bassline sampled from Queen & David Bowie’s 1981 song Under Pressure, which added to its appeal but also led to legal disputes over copyright. The track features a catchy beat, simple drum machine loops, and Vanilla Ice’s fast-paced flow, making it a danceable and radio-friendly rap song.
The song was a massive commercial success, reaching No. 1 in the U.S., UK, Australia, and several other countries, turning Vanilla Ice into an overnight superstar. However, he also faced backlash from the hip-hop community, with critics questioning his authenticity and labeling him a one-hit wonder.