In a surprising turn of events, Def Jam and Universal Music Group (UMG) faced internal conflict after allegedly requesting the removal of Kendrick Lamar’s feature from the upcoming Clipse album, Let God Sort Em Out. This development has sparked widespread speculation across hip-hop circles, especially given the album’s highly anticipated return of the Virginia duo.

After months of rumors and buzz fueled by concert appearances and industry whispers, it’s now confirmed that Kendrick Lamar will indeed feature on the project. The track titled “Chains & Whips” is expected to be a highlight, but hip-hop journalist and artist Rob Markman suggests there’s a deeper story behind the collaboration.

KENDRICK LAMAR AND PUSHA T COLLAB VS DRAKE?

In a YouTube video posted on Monday, June 2, Markman shared insights from having heard the full album. He previewed what fans can expect from Kendrick’s contribution, describing his verse as more than just a diss — it’s a “state of the union” address for hip-hop.

“Without giving too much away… the verse is less of a diss and more of a reflection on where we are now,” Markman explained. “After one of the most turbulent years in hip-hop history, Kendrick offers a perspective on the current landscape — where we stand and where he’s at personally. But there’s also a notable underlying tension.”

This tension, Markman notes, relates to the label’s reluctance to allow Kendrick’s verse to be included. The controversy was further elucidated in a recent GQ interview with Pusha T and No Malice, where they revealed their initial plans to release the album through Def Jam. However, UMG reportedly pushed to remove Kendrick’s verse, citing concerns over the optics of Kendrick Lamar and Pusha T sharing a track—especially given their past beef with Drake.

Markman elaborates, “It wasn’t even about the content of Kendrick’s verse; it was more about the optics. Kendrick and Pusha are both artists who have had issues with Drake, and the label fears the potential for controversy or backlash. There’s also a looming lawsuit, which complicates things further.”

CLIPSE RESPONSE TO CONTROVERSY

In response to the label’s demands, Clipse decided to part ways with Def Jam and UMG, signing with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation instead. Markman emphasizes that this situation underscores broader issues in hip-hop, particularly how legal battles and corporate interests can influence artistic expression.

He warns that the lawsuit initiated by Drake and UMG could have lasting impacts on how artists engage with one another and express their creativity. “This sets a dangerous precedent,” Markman states. “It could alter the very fabric of hip-hop competition and collaboration, which are vital elements of the culture.”

As fans await the release of Let God Sort Em Out, this controversy highlights ongoing tensions between artistic freedom and commercial interests within the industry. Kendrick Lamar’s feature, and the stories behind it, serve as a reminder of the complex dynamics at play in modern hip-hop.