Ice Cube's Rap Return

Ice Cube's Rap Return

Ice Cube is returning to music.

The rap veteran - real name is O'Shea Jackson - has announced he will return to his roots as a gangsta rapper on his new studio album, which will be titled 'I Am The West'.

The 40-year-old rapper broke the news of his return via a posting on his blog.

He wrote: "I Am The West' is the name of my new record. After completing about 65 per cent of my music, this is the new perfect title. This s**t is cocky, no apologies, West Coast gangsta s**t. I can't help it. That's what I do."

The album marks a comeback for the rapper - whose musical output had slowed down considerably since turning his focus to acting - starring in films including 'Anaconda' and 'Three Kings'.

His last solo album 'Raw Footage' was released in 2008.

Talking about when the new tracks are likely to be released, Ice said: "June seems too tight for a release, but July is very doable. We'll see how things go.

"Now that I have my title, I can work on the concept of my photoshoot and artwork. I want to provide."

Ice rose to fame as a member of the group NWA, before becoming the group's most successful solo rapper, releasing controversial album 'AmeriKKKa's Most Wanted' in 1990 and being a key figure in the California rap scene through the early nineties, when the West Coast and East Coast of the US were divided and seen as being 'at war' with each other.