Hello

The song "Hello" by Ice Cube, featuring Dr. Dre and MC Ren, is a powerful reflection on the impact and legacy of their contributions to the genre of gangsta rap. The repeated line "I started this gangsta shit, and this the motherfuckin' thanks I get?" serves as a rhetorical question, highlighting the artists' frustration with the lack of recognition and respect they feel they've received for pioneering this style of music. The song is a defiant statement of their significance in the music industry and a reminder of their enduring influence.

Throughout the lyrics, the artists address various themes, including the harsh realities of life in the ghetto, the violence and criminality that they've witnessed and experienced, and the commercial success they've achieved despite these challenges. Ice Cube's verses, in particular, paint a vivid picture of the environment that shaped him, filled with 'magazines, full clips, and heavy metal,' using imagery that conveys both the literal and metaphorical ammunition of the streets. The song also touches on the artists' personal wealth and success, suggesting that despite their achievements, they still face criticism and underappreciation.

Dr. Dre's verse addresses his critics directly, asserting his continued relevance and dismissing those who question his ability to produce hits. He emphasizes that his motivation is not fame or staying in the game, but rather a personal desire to create music. This sentiment reinforces the song's overarching theme of authenticity and staying true to oneself, regardless of public opinion or industry pressures. "Hello" is not just a track; it's a statement of pride, a claim to a legacy, and a challenge to those who would underestimate the pioneers of gangsta rap.