After nearly 16 years away from the studio as a duo, Clipse has triumphantly returned to the hip-hop scene with their long-awaited album Let God Sort Em Out, released on July 11, 2025. This Pharrell Williams-produced project not only marks their first album in over a decade and a half but also serves as a powerful statement of resilience, reflection, and reinvention for the Virginia Beach brothers Pusha T and Malice. The release was celebrated with their debut on NPR’s renowned Tiny Desk series, capping off what many are calling one of the most flawlessly executed rollouts in recent memory.
The anticipation surrounding the album had been building for months, fueled in part by the release of the track "Chains & Whips" on July 10, 2025, featuring the iconic Kendrick Lamar. This song, arguably the most talked-about on the album, dives deep into themes of power, trauma, and cultural legacy. Kendrick Lamar’s verse, sharp and incisive, continues to send pointed shots at rapper Drake, adding a layer of tension and intrigue to the track. Meanwhile, Malice contributes a spiritual and introspective verse, and Pusha T delivers his signature raw, streetwise lyricism, solidifying the track’s place as a centerpiece of the album.
"Chains & Whips" showcases the duo’s ability to blend hard-hitting rap with profound social commentary. Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics touch on generational trauma and systemic inequity, reflecting on the contradictions inherent in Black fame. Lines like "The two-time Gemini with the genocide I'm generous, however you want it, I'll be the gentle kind" reveal the complexity and duality of his message. The track’s collaboration exemplifies the album’s broader spirit—melding deep personal reflection with the sharp edge of street narratives.
Pharrell Williams, who produced all 13 tracks on the album, brings his signature sound and vision to the project, ensuring a cohesive yet dynamic listening experience. The album features a stellar lineup of collaborators, including John Legend, Voices of Fire, Tyler, The Creator, The-Dream, Stove God Cooks, Ab-Liva, and Nas. Each contributes to the album’s rich tapestry, blending soulful melodies, haunting choirs, and cutting-edge rap verses.
The opening track, "The Birds Don’t Sing," is a haunting and deeply personal song that sees Clipse mourning the loss of their parents. Featuring John Legend and the choir Voices of Fire, the track sets a vulnerable and reflective tone for the entire album. In an Apple Music interview released just a day before the album launch, Pusha T spoke candidly about the song’s significance. He said, "You know, I’ve said it quite a few times, that in my solo efforts, I’ve always known what the fans miss from the Clipse. Always. It’s a mark that I’ve never been able to hit by myself… Just actually knowing who your [fanbase] is and knowing where your fans derive from — they come from Clipse." This statement underscores the emotional core of the album and the duo’s intent to reconnect with their roots.
Fans of Clipse have long awaited this moment. The duo, known for defining the 2000s coke rap scene with their razor-sharp lyricism and Pharrell’s distinctive production, had been silent together for over a decade. Malice credited his faith as a key factor in reuniting with his brother, bringing the duo back together stronger than ever. Their chemistry remains undeniable, as evidenced on tracks like "Ace Trumpets," while the album’s title track features a poignant appearance by Nas.
To celebrate their return, Clipse launched the Let God Sort Em Out Tour, kicking off in August 2025 in Boston. The tour will make stops in major cities including Philadelphia, New York, Miami, Atlanta, and their hometown of Virginia Beach. Joining them on this national tour is the dynamic duo EARTHGANG, marking Clipse’s first national tour in 15 years. Fans can expect a mix of new material and classic hits like "Grindin’" and "When the Last Time," promising a show filled with energy and nostalgia.
The timing of the album’s release and the accompanying tour feels particularly poignant given the current cultural landscape. The project has been praised for its thoughtful engagement with hip-hop’s roots and its refusal to shy away from difficult topics. DJ Cuzzin B, producer of NPR’s Tiny Desk series, expressed his excitement on social media, saying, "I cannot wait for y’all to see this show tomorrow. I obsessed over it. With so much goof a st goin’ on in Hip Hop culture, this had to happen. Don’t let nobody try to deceive [you] or the younger generations on what Hip Hop is." This sentiment resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners eager for authentic voices in the genre.
Adding to the cultural buzz is the upcoming ComplexCon event in Las Vegas, scheduled for October 25–26, 2025, featuring live performances from some of today’s hottest artists like Young Thug, YEAT & Friends, Peso Pluma, Central Cee, and Ken Carson. While not directly related to Clipse, the event underscores the vibrant and evolving landscape of hip-hop and music culture that Clipse is reentering with their new work.
In a musical era often dominated by fleeting trends and rapid-fire releases, Clipse’s Let God Sort Em Out stands as a testament to patience, craft, and the enduring power of brotherhood. The album’s blend of introspection, social critique, and classic street narratives, all underpinned by Pharrell’s masterful production, makes it a significant moment in 2025’s music calendar.
As the duo embarks on their national tour and continues to engage with fans old and new, one thing is clear: Clipse is back, and they’re ready to remind the world why they were—and remain—a defining force in hip-hop.
