How did Ice-T coin the term 'O.G.'?

Ice-T adopted and popularized the term 'O.G.' (Original Gangster) in response to the media's labeling of hip-hop as 'Gangster Rap.'

What is Ice-T's view on rap beefs?

Ice-T believes rap beefs can escalate uncontrollably, particularly with the amplification provided by social media.

What does 'O.G.' mean in Los Angeles?

In Los Angeles, 'O.G.' was a term used by gangs for the first generation of a set, and also broadly meant 'The Original.'

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Ice-T: My Surprise at 'O.G.' Going Global

Ice-T: My Surprise at 'O.G.' Going Global

4 Feb

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Summary

Rapper Ice-T brought the term 'O.G.' to global prominence.
He coined the term in response to the media labeling rap as 'Gangster Rap'.
Ice-T reflects on rap beefs and social media's amplifying effect.

Ice-T: My Surprise at 'O.G.' Going Global

Rapper and actor Ice-T, 67, recently shared insights into his career and the unexpected global reach of the term 'O.G.' He explained that the phrase, initially used by Los Angeles gangs to denote the first generation, was adopted by him when the media started labeling hip-hop as 'Gangster Rap' following Ice Cube's "Straight Outta Compton."

Ice-T stated, "I was like, 'if this is gangster rap, I'm the Original Gangster.'" He expressed astonishment at how the term transcended its origins to become a common part of pop culture lexicon, even joking that he should have trademarked it. He also reflected on rap beefs, sharing in a separate interview that such conflicts can escalate beyond control, especially with the amplifying effect of social media.

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