However, Hip-Hop’s runaway MVP of 1991 was undoubtedly Ice Cube-whose supporting role as Doughboy in the critically-acclaimed feature film, Boyz n the Hood, and the lyrical masterclass of his sophomore LP, Death Certificate -helped solidify his dominance at the box office and on the Billboard charts. Ice Cube's BIG3 Is Leading The Charge For Inclusivity In Sports That year alone, rap stars like Will Smith ( The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air ), Ice-T ( New Jack City ), Queen Latifah ( Jungle Fever ), and LL Cool J ( The Hard Way ) appeared in high-profile television and film roles that served as their launching pads to what have proved to be illustrious acting careers. Yet, regardless of whatever disdain was directed towards the music, the noise was overpowered by its sheer popularity among the youth, leading Hollywood and Tinseltown to come knocking at its most popular artists’ doors. And being a young Black male or female creating it meant you pretty much fit the bill on both sides. In 1991, depending on who or where you were, rap music was either considered revolutionary or a detriment of it. Hip-Hop is no different, as we celebrate one’s ability to navigate various thoroughfares and avenues to success, particularly after having risen from adverse or impoverished conditions. Within the urban community, there are certain cultural heroes who are held in special esteem due to their dominance and achievement in multiple realms.