The iconic rap duo Clipse, comprised of brothers Pusha T and Malice, has made a powerful resurgence in the music world, ending a 15-year hiatus with their critically acclaimed album, 'Let God Sort Em Out.' This comeback has not only reaffirmed their status as legends in coke rap but also demonstrated their evolving artistic range. The pair's deliberate and engaging album rollout garnered significant attention, leading to a nationwide tour, a performance at the Vatican, and now, a strong bid for their first-ever Grammy Award. Their journey highlights a blend of nostalgia for classic hip-hop journalism and a forward-thinking approach to their craft, emphasizing raw lyricism and an intricate production process with longtime collaborator Pharrell.
Pusha T and Malice reflect on the meticulous planning behind their album release, emphasizing a desire to rekindle the collective enthusiasm for hip-hop that they felt was missing. Pusha T notes that their aim was to present their work with conviction, standing firmly behind its quality rather than relying on surprise drops. This approach was designed to spark conversations reminiscent of old-school hip-hop debates, fostering engagement among fans about the album's merits.
The collaborative dynamic with Pharrell, their long-standing producer, is a cornerstone of Clipse's sound. Pusha T describes a process often marked by passionate disagreements, where his insistence on hardcore, lyric-driven hip-hop clashes with Pharrell's experimental production ideas. Malice adds that while they sometimes initially dislike Pharrell's sonic explorations, they trust his genius. He recounts a specific instance with the song 'P.O.V.,' where a beat switch during his verse initially frustrated him but ultimately proved to be a stroke of brilliance that resonated widely with listeners, underscoring Pharrell's deep understanding of their artistic vision.
Malice also shares insights into his solo journey during the group's hiatus, revealing that this period allowed him to develop personally and artistically, exploring themes of life's challenges and self-correction. He cherishes the freedom he found in uninhibited self-expression, which he now seamlessly integrates into Clipse's music. Both brothers express a readiness to continue creating, believing their unique skillset and their ability to connect with audiences on a deeper, more relatable level will lead to more impactful projects.
Beyond their music, the duo delves into personal aspects, including Pusha T's experience with fatherhood and both brothers' deep-rooted faith. Pusha T credits his son, Nigel, as a profound influence, bringing a new sense of intentionality to his work. Malice, known for his vocal faith, expresses a desire to start a podcast to share his accumulated wisdom and experiences, highlighting the demand from fans for his insights. This blend of professional ambition and personal growth paints a holistic picture of the artists behind the music.
The brothers address the competitive landscape of hip-hop, embracing challenges and viewing them as opportunities to reinforce their authentic artistry. They dismiss notions of manufactured rivalries, preferring to let their music speak for itself. Clipse's unwavering commitment to lyrical skill and genuine creative output sets them apart in an evolving industry, and they maintain a focus on their unique contributions, looking forward to future musical endeavors, both as a duo and in their individual capacities.