The power of music to heal and inspire is a testament to its enduring strength. In the case of Clipse, a beloved hip-hop duo, their reunion album, 'Let God Sort Em Out,' is a poignant example of this. The album, released in July 2025, is a masterpiece that emerged from a period of immense grief and loss for the Thornton brothers, Pusha T and Malice.
Within a devastating four-month span, the brothers lost both their parents, Mildred and Gene Thornton. It was a soul-shattering experience, leaving them with little time to process their grief. Yet, in their pain, they found solace and purpose in their art.
'Let God Sort Em Out' is not just an album; it's a testament to the Thornton brothers' resilience and their ability to transform grief into something beautiful. The album's lead track, 'The Birds Don't Sing,' is an emotional ballad that captures the raw and honest experience of loss. Pusha T and Malice's lyrics paint a vivid picture of their grief, leaving listeners with a deep sense of empathy and understanding.
But here's where it gets controversial... The album's journey to release was not without its challenges. Initially intended for 2024, the album's release was delayed due to concerns from their former label, Def Jam Recordings. The label's decision to censor Kendrick Lamar's verse on 'Chains & Whips,' amid his public feud with Drake, led Clipse to sever ties and move forward independently with Roc Nation. This bold move proved to be a turning point, as the album debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and received universal acclaim for its artistic brilliance.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the brothers opened up about their grief, the vindication they felt with the album's success, and the importance of their sibling bond. Pusha T revealed his goal of landing the cover of Men's Health, driven by his desire to stay fit and healthy for his young son.
Malice, formerly known as No Malice, shared the story behind his name change. He explained that the name 'Malice' was a reflection of his aggressive approach to verses, but as his convictions and heart evolved, he wanted to show that he was not malicious. When Clipse reunited, they chose to honor their original branding, keeping the name Clipse intact.
The brothers' grief, though evolving, remains a constant companion. Pusha T described it as a weight that doesn't go away, with moments of disbelief and tears. Malice found solace in his faith, especially during his 16-year absence from the group. Their sibling relationship was a lifeline, providing an unspoken understanding and support during their darkest times.
As they reflect on their late 40s and early 50s, the brothers acknowledge the changes in their lifestyle. Pusha T's focus on physical health is driven by his desire to keep up with his energetic five-year-old son. He sees his workout routine as a way to ensure he can be an active and present father.
The decision to leave Def Jam and join Roc Nation was a pivotal moment. It was a testament to their artistic integrity and a bold statement of their independence. The brothers felt vindicated, knowing they could create music without compromise. They followed their hearts and trusted in the purity of their art, selecting only those who truly understood and appreciated it.
Being in a group with their brother has brought the Thornton brothers immense joy and a sense of historical significance. Pusha T described it as a weight lifted off his shoulders, especially after years of solo work filled with drama and a lack of brotherhood. Malice expressed his gratitude for his brother's leadership and vision, creating a space for him to return to and thrive.
'Let God Sort Em Out' is more than just an album; it's a celebration of resilience, brotherhood, and the healing power of music. It's a reminder that even in the face of immense loss, art can provide a much-needed outlet and a sense of purpose. The Thornton brothers' story is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and the strength that can be found in family bonds.
