Introduction
"Extremely Live" is a live album by American rap artist Vanilla Ice, released in 1991. The album records a live performance by the rap artist during the peak of his popularity, following the enormous success of his debut album "To the Extreme". The setlist primarily includes songs from "To the Extreme", including his smash hit "Ice Ice Baby", in addition to a few extra tracks.
Background and Recording
The album was recorded on April 3, 1991, during an efficiency at the Miami Arena in Miami, Florida. Vanilla Ice was at the height of his popularity throughout this time, with "To the Extreme" selling countless copies around the world and topping the charts in different nations. This live recording catches the energy and enjoyment of his live shows, which were understood for their energetic efficiencies and fancy phase setups.
The production of "Extremely Live" was managed by SBK Records, the label responsible for the release of "To the Extreme". The album was blended by industry veteran Tom Lord-Alge, who assisted to polish the raw live recordings into a more cohesive package.
Track Listing and Performances
"Extremely Live" features an overall of 14 tracks, with the majority of them being live performances of songs from "To the Extreme". The album opens with a live version of "Ice Ice Baby", which showcases Vanilla Ice's rapping prowess and unique flow, accompanied by a full band and backup dancers. The efficiency likewise consists of a drum solo by his drummer, which includes an extra level of enjoyment to the show.
Other tracks from "To the Extreme" included on the album include "Play That Funky Music", a reworking of the 1976 struck by Wild Cherry, and "Dancin'", which has a more laid-back feel compared to the energetic opening track.
In addition to the tunes from "To the Extreme", "Extremely Live" also includes a couple of brand-new tracks that were not consisted of on his debut album. Among these is "I Like It", a catchy, upbeat number that showcases Vanilla Ice's pop sensibilities and additional shows his capability to engage the audience through infectious hooks.
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Extremely Live" received mixed evaluations from music critics. Some applauded the album for catching the enjoyment of Vanilla Ice's live programs and using fans a glimpse of the rap artist at the height of his fame. However, others criticized the album's total quality and the inclusion of lesser-known tracks that were not nearly as popular as his hits from "To the Extreme".
In the years since its release, "Extremely Live" has actually not taken pleasure in the exact same level of notoriety or honor as "To the Extreme". Despite this, it stays an intriguing paperwork of Vanilla Ice's meteoric increase to popularity and offers a snapshot of his live performances throughout this period. The album is a nostalgic time pill for fans of the rapper and acts as a testament to the immense popularity that he enjoyed throughout the early 1990s.
Conclusion
"Extremely Live" is an item of its time, and its appeal today may be limited to those who have a deep interest in the career of Vanilla Ice or a more general interest about the music of the early '90s. The album is a tip of the heights Vanilla Ice reached, catching a moment in time when he was one of the greatest stars in music. While it might not be remembered as one of the rap artist's most substantial offerings, "Extremely Live" is still an entertaining and energetic listen for fans of Vanilla Ice and fans of early '90s hip-hop.
Artist: Vanilla Ice
Vanilla Ice, his journey from troubled youth to rap sensation with the iconic Ice Ice Baby, plus reinvention in music and real estate.
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