Clipse’s “Let God Sort Em Out” and the Absence of Jay-Z

Pusha T Addresses Jay-Z’s Non-Appearance

Last week, the hip-hop duo Clipse released their long-anticipated fourth major label album, Let God Sort Em Out, which notably did not feature a guest appearance from Jay-Z, a collaboration that many fans had speculated about. Pusha T recently shed light on why the legendary rapper was absent from the project during an appearance on The Breakfast Club.

Pusha’s Insights on the Collaboration That Didn’t Happen

Pusha T, alongside his brother Malice, reunited for the album, which was launched on July 11. The 13-track project includes contributions from artists like Nas, Tyler, The Creator, and Stove God Cooks. Despite the buzz surrounding Jay-Z’s potential involvement, he ultimately did not appear on the album. During the Breakfast Club interview, Pusha explained that Jay-Z had been presented with tracks such as “Chains & Whips,” “M.T.B.T.T.F.,” and “So Be It.”

“He was sent those tracks,” Pusha stated, referring to the songs intended for Jay-Z’s consideration. “Hov had the album. It was all for him to… whatever he wanted to do.”

When cohost Charlamagne Tha God inquired if nothing resonated with Jay-Z, Pusha replied cryptically, “I don’t know, man.”

Highlight: Kendrick Lamar’s Notable Contribution

From subtle jabs to strong declarations, Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics from his viral verse on “Chains & Whips” have been noted as some of the standout moments on the album.

The Connection Between Clipse and Jay-Z

Interestingly, Let God Sort Em Out was released through Roc Nation, Jay-Z’s distribution company. This partnership came about after Clipse decided to part ways with Def Jam, a move that followed the label’s insistence on removing Kendrick Lamar from the album—a request the group declined. To break free from their contract, Clipse paid a substantial seven-figure buyout.

Steven Victor, the group’s manager, played a pivotal role in securing the deal with Roc Nation. “Once I knew that we had, in principle, a deal in place with Def Jam [to leave], I got on the phone with Jay-Z,” Victor shared. He discussed the possibility of collaborating with Roc Nation on the album, and Jay-Z’s enthusiastic response led to a swift agreement. “He hit me back right away, like, ‘You just made my day. Let’s figure it out,'” Victor explained. The deal was finalized in less than 24 hours, ensuring that Clipse would retain ownership of their masters while benefiting from Roc Nation’s marketing prowess.

Watch the Interview

For further insights, check out Clipse’s interview on The Breakfast Club below.

Pusha T Discusses Jay-Z’s Absence from Let God Sort Em Out

Conclusion

Despite the absence of Jay-Z on Let God Sort Em Out, Clipse has managed to create a celebrated album that showcases their evolution as artists. The partnership with Roc Nation marks a new chapter in their career, allowing them the creative freedom they sought while still paying homage to their roots in hip-hop.

FAQs

Why didn’t Jay-Z appear on Clipse’s new album?

Jay-Z was sent several tracks from the album for consideration but ultimately did not feel moved to collaborate on any of them.

What are some notable guest features on Let God Sort Em Out?

The album features contributions from Nas, Tyler, The Creator, and Stove God Cooks, among others.

What led Clipse to leave Def Jam?

Clipse parted ways with Def Jam after they refused to remove Kendrick Lamar from their album, leading them to pay a significant buyout to exit their contract.