" Ice Cube went straight outta Compton to hearing, ‘Are we there yet?’ Eddie Murphy blew up striding across the stage in a red leather ensemble that would have made Elvis Presley chuckle, yet is probably best known to anyone born in the 21st century as the overly chatty donkey from ‘Shrek.’ "
- Elvis Mitchell

The quote speaks about the careers of Ice Cube and Eddie Murphy through a lens that reflects both their achievements and their subsequent transformations in the public eye. It mentions how Ice Cube rose to fame from Compton, referencing his rap origins and the early days of N.W.A., while also hinting at the common childhood travel question "Are we there yet?" as a playful nod to the cyclical nature of success and change. For Eddie Murphy, it recalls his flamboyant style on stage during the height of his career, which was quite audacious even by Hollywood standards at that time, but now he is more widely recognized for voicing Donkey in the "Shrek" film series.

The quote delves into how fame can be fleeting and mutable, especially when viewed through the lens of generational changes. Ice Cube's journey from a rapper with deep roots in Compton to becoming a voice that might evoke nostalgia or familiarity among different audiences highlights the cyclical nature of cultural influence and memory. Similarly, Eddie Murphy's career arc illustrates the way public perception can shift over time; what was once seen as bold and innovative may later be remembered more fondly through family-friendly roles that span multiple generations. This reflects not just individual careers but also broader trends in entertainment where artists are remembered differently by successive waves of viewers.

Elvis Mitchell, an American writer and cultural critic, penned this insightful quote. Known for his work at The New York Times, Mitchell is celebrated for his incisive commentary on film, music, fashion, and popular culture. His writing often offers a nuanced perspective on celebrity culture and the entertainment industry, blending humor with astute observations to provide readers with a deeper understanding of cultural phenomena.