Clipse Confront Grief in Their Reunion Album: "It Just Doesn't Go Away"

A Journey Through Grief and Triumph

In the span of just four months, Pusha T and Malice lost both of their parents. The rappers' mother, Mildred Thornton, passed away in November 2021, followed by their father, Gene Thornton, in March 2022. This double loss was a devastating blow that left the brothers reeling. However, rather than letting their pain consume them, they channeled their grief into their music, creating an album that would become one of the most impactful releases of 2025.

The result of this emotional journey is Let God Sort Em Out, the first album from the beloved hip-hop duo Clipse since 2009's Til the Casket Drops. The album has been widely praised for its raw emotion and artistic depth, making it a strong contender for Grammy recognition. Despite three years of mourning and the catharsis provided by the album, the wounds of losing their parents still feel fresh.

One of the standout tracks on the album, "The Birds Don't Sing," captures the brothers' experience with such emotional intensity that it's impossible not to feel the weight of every word. This vulnerability is consistent throughout the entire project, showcasing the brothers' ability to transform personal tragedy into powerful art.

A Victory Lap for Clipse

Let God Sort Em Out was initially intended to release in 2024, but the duo faced unexpected challenges when Def Jam Recordings raised concerns about the inclusion of Kendrick Lamar's verse on the track "Chains & Whips" amid his public feud with Drake. In response, Clipse decided to sever their ties with Def Jam and move forward with Roc Nation. While this decision came at a significant financial cost, it ultimately proved to be the right choice. The album debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and received universal acclaim for its compelling artistry.

Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Pusha T and Malice opened up about the role of grief in their creative process, the vindication they felt after the album's success, and the importance of their sibling relationship. They also shared insights into their career choices and future aspirations.

The Meaning Behind "Malice"

When asked about the name "Malice" versus "No Malice," Malice explained that the original name reflected the aggressive style of their early work. However, as he grew and changed, he wanted to emphasize that there was no malice in their intentions. When they reunited as Clipse, he felt it was important to maintain the original branding, as it represented who they were and what their fans knew.

Pusha T confirmed that their solo projects were released under the "No Malice" moniker, highlighting the significance of this distinction.

Navigating Grief

Losing their parents was a profound experience for both brothers. Pusha T described how the grief continues to affect him unpredictably, with some days being better than others. He admitted that the emotional weight of performing songs like "The Birds Don't Sing" can be overwhelming, as it serves as a constant reminder of their loss.

Malice echoed these sentiments, noting that the absence of their parents has been difficult to cope with. For him, faith has been a source of strength and comfort during this time.

The Power of Sibling Bonds

The brothers emphasized the importance of their relationship during this challenging period. Having each other to lean on made a significant difference in their grieving process. They described how understanding and empathy between them helped them navigate their emotions without needing to verbalize everything.

Pusha T credited Malice as the backbone of their family during this time, acknowledging the support and strength he provided.

A New Focus on Health and Family

As they enter their late 40s and early 50s, the brothers have taken a more active approach to their health. Pusha T mentioned his goal of appearing on the cover of Men’s Health, driven by his desire to stay physically active for his young son. His workout routine is centered around keeping up with his child's energy and maintaining his health.

Independence and Artistic Integrity

The decision to leave Def Jam and sign with Roc Nation was a bold move that paid off. Pusha T described the experience as vindicating, as it reinforced their belief in their music and their ability to succeed independently. He noted that the album's success validated their artistic choices and showed that true artistry could stand on its own.

Malice added that their faith in the music and their selective approach to sharing it helped them maintain control over their creative vision.

A Legacy of Brotherhood

Pusha T expressed how meaningful it was to work with his brother, especially during moments like performing in the Vatican. He described the experience as groundbreaking and historic, emphasizing the unique bond they share.

Malice reflected on the blessing of being part of a group with his younger brother, appreciating the trust and support they provide each other. He acknowledged that while he may not do much else, his focus remains on their music and their shared experiences.

Looking Ahead

Both brothers have clear visions for their future, with Pusha T expressing a desire to work with only a few R&B artists and continue focusing on their music. Malice, on the other hand, feels supported and trusted by his brother, allowing him to focus on what he does best—rap.

Their journey through grief, triumph, and artistic evolution has not only strengthened their bond but also reaffirmed their place in the hip-hop world.