West Fest Tour Brings West Coast Hip-Hop Legends to Lincoln, NE
On Thursday night, Lincoln, Nebraska, welcomed the electrifying "West Fest Tour," a showcase of West Coast hip-hop featuring Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Cypress Hill, and the iconic Ice Cube. This unforgettable concert at Pinnacle Bank Arena delivered a high-energy dose of West Coast rap, following Snoop Dogg's sold-out performance earlier this year on April 20.
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony: Midwest Meets Rapid-Fire Rap
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, ignited the stage with their signature lyrical speed and harmony. The group, consisting of Bizzy Bone, Layzie Bone, Krayzie Bone, Flesh-n-Bone, and Wish Bone, rose to fame after signing with Eazy-E's Ruthless Records in 1993. Their debut album, Creepin on ah Come Up (1994), produced hits like "Thuggish Ruggish Bone" and "Foe tha Love of $," earning critical and commercial acclaim. With seven platinum or multi-platinum albums and two Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Album for E. 1999 Eternal (1997), Bone Thugs-N-Harmony remains one of the most influential hip-hop groups of all time.
The crowd, singing along to every word, felt the emotional weight of the night when the group paid tribute to hip-hop icons The Notorious B.I.G. and Eazy-E, emphasizing the tight-knit community of hip-hop. Despite audio equipment issues during their set, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony turned the challenge into a showcase of their raw talent, delivering an electrifying a cappella performance that left the audience in awe.
Cypress Hill: Latin-Influenced Beats and Cannabis Culture
Next up, Cypress Hill brought their signature Latin-infused beats and socially conscious lyrics to Lincoln. Formed in South Gate, California, in 1988, the group—comprising B-Real, Sen Dog, and DJ Muggs—has sold over 20 million albums worldwide, making them one of the most successful hip-hop acts. Known for their advocacy of marijuana legalization, Cypress Hill lived up to their reputation, as a thick haze filled the arena, creating a relaxed yet electric atmosphere.
Their setlist featured hits like "Insane in the Brain," "Tequila Sunrise," and "How I Could Just Kill a Man," keeping the crowd on its feet. Cypress Hill's performance radiated Latino pride and welcomed fans into their musical family. For more from B-Real, check out his podcast, B-Real TV, for insights into hip-hop and cannabis culture.
Ice Cube: The Compton Legend Commands the Stage
As the lights dimmed and the volume soared, Ice Cube took the stage, delivering the raw Compton sound that solidified his legacy. O'Shea Jackson Sr., known as Ice Cube, is a hip-hop pioneer, both as a member of N.W.A. and as a solo artist with nine platinum or multi-platinum albums. His influence on gangsta rap is undeniable, and his career extends to acting in films like Boyz n the Hood and Friday, as well as entrepreneurship with his record label, clothing line, and production company.
Ice Cube's performance was a powerful reminder of N.W.A.'s impact on hip-hop and the enduring influence of West Coast rap. His set left no doubt about his place in music history, captivating fans with a commanding presence and timeless tracks.
A Night of West Coast Hip-Hop History
The "West Fest Tour" was a masterclass in West Coast hip-hop, delivering an unforgettable night for fans in Lincoln. While the Ying Yang Twins' performance was missed, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Cypress Hill, and Ice Cube more than delivered, blending nostalgia with high-energy performances. For those craving more, Ice Cube returns to the Midwest on July 14 at Harrah's Stir Concert Cove. Secure your tickets here.
