The Nadur spontaneous carnival, one of the most anticipated events in Malta’s carnival season, never fails to impress with its originality and creativity. Every year, participants come up with unique and sometimes outrageous themes, making it a highlight of the Maltese carnival scene.
This year, a group of young participants took inspiration from the 1990 mega-hit “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice. Their costumes were as clever as they were entertaining—dressed in ice bags while carrying plastic baby dolls to match the theme of the song. Their playful and nostalgic take on the track added an extra layer of excitement to the already vibrant celebrations.
“Ice Ice Baby” was the debut single by American rapper Vanilla Ice, released in 1990. Despite being 35 years old, the song remains a pop culture staple, proving its timeless appeal by becoming a carnival theme. The track’s signature hook samples the bassline from the 1981 song “Under Pressure” by Queen and David Bowie, though initially, neither artist received credit or royalties. This led to a legal dispute that was later settled out of court, with Vanilla Ice eventually acknowledging the sample and compensating the original artists.
Interestingly, “Ice Ice Baby” is written in the key of D minor, adding a distinct musical tone to its catchy beat. Despite the legal controversy, the song’s infectious rhythm and nostalgic value continue to resonate with audiences, as proven by its unexpected revival in Nadur’s carnival.
The Nadur spontaneous carnival thrives on unconventional and humorous themes, and this year’s Ice Ice Baby-inspired group was a perfect example of the festival’s spirit. Their creativity and execution not only paid tribute to a classic 90s hit but also demonstrated how music continues to influence pop culture, even decades later.
