Clipse's Def Jam Split: The Kendrick Lamar Controversy

The long-speculated reasons behind Clipse's departure from Def Jam are now clear: a dispute over a feature with Kendrick Lamar. The duo, Pusha T and No Malice, were set to release "Let God Sort Em Out," but Def Jam demanded Kendrick's verse on "Chains & Whips" be removed or censored.

At the time, tensions between Drake and Pusha T were high, and Def Jam feared further escalation. However, Pusha T firmly refused to censor Kendrick's art. This led to Def Jam dropping Clipse and allowing Pusha T to buy out his solo deal. The group paid a "seven-figure sum" to exit the label.

Now, "Let God Sort Em Out" finds its new home at Roc Nation, marking a new chapter for Clipse that prioritizes artistic integrity over label demands.