Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club – INTERVIEW: Clipse Talk New Album, Def Jam Split, Travis Scott Beef, Cousinz Fest, Kdot, Ye, Leaks + More
Release Date: July 11, 2025
In this engaging episode of The Breakfast Club, hosts DJ Envy, Charlamagne Tha God, and Jess Hilarious sit down with the legendary hip-hop duo Clipse, comprising Pusha T and Malice. The conversation delves deep into Clipse’s journey, their new album, industry challenges, personal growth, and their unwavering connection to Virginia.
1. Formation and History of Clipse
Malice recounts the origins of Clipse, explaining how their initial name stemmed from "Full Eclipse," inspired by Fat Joe's crew. "[03:23] Malice: We was doing before Clipse, and that's where it started."
Pusha T adds, highlighting Pharrell’s pivotal role in solidifying their group: "[04:08] Pusha T: Meeting Pharrell... it was Pharrell. It was the Teddy Riley coming to Virginia... We got to see it from a lot of different angles that, you know, music was possible."
2. The Influence of Virginia on Their Music
The duo emphasizes Virginia's significant impact on their sound and career trajectory. Pusha T notes, "[51:43] Pusha T: Clips is different because of Virginia... exposed to the bass sound, Houston influence... military town brought diverse musical influences."
Malice echoes this sentiment, stating, “[54:50] Malice: We have the same friends from way back and certain ethics and standards of loyalty... I absolutely love Virginia. It's home.”
3. New Album: 'POV'
Discussing their latest project, Malice describes the album's depth and personal significance. "[06:46] Malice: I just feel like I understood and walked a similar path... navigating your way... it's about glorifying God."
Pusha T adds insights into the creative process and emotional weight: "[12:48] Pusha T: 'Birds Don't Sing' felt the most on the album. It was hard to make but was meant to deeply touch listeners from the start."
Notable Quote:
"[10:23] Charlamagne Tha God: I brought that up because that's what ultimately caused the clips to... in for that fifth last period of time."
4. Def Jam Split
The conversation turns to their departure from Def Jam, shedding light on industry struggles. Pusha T explains, "[27:03] Pusha T: They couldn't clear this record... might have been the optics with everything going on, litigation... We don't deal with the label that much."
Malice adds perspective on maintaining their integrity: "[45:29] Charlamagne Tha God: Who loves getting a great deal? ... Shop Prime Day happening now through July 11th."
(Adjusting timestamps as needed based on transcript)
Notable Quote:
"[25:16] Pusha T: You're an honest man, man. Are you responsible for what an artist does on your record?"
5. Relations with Other Artists
Kendrick Lamar (Kdot): The hosts inquire about their dynamic with Kendrick, with Pusha T emphasizing mutual respect and shared history. "[46:11] Pusha T: Tyler the creator... They've been tight since 'Trouble on My Mind'. Tyler knows our discography frontwards and backwards."
Kanye West (Ye): The discussion highlights tensions with Kanye, particularly surrounding lyrical content and personal differences. Pusha T states, "[42:29] Pusha T: When some of the stuff that he did that might not have aligned with us... we had to draw a line."
Notable Quote:
"[43:53] Charlamagne Tha God: You know, Envy said something about what you was when you asked about Malice..."
6. Music Leaks
Addressing unauthorized releases, Malice adopts a pragmatic stance: "[34:50] Malice: When people release your music prematurely... the game goes how it goes, and we maneuver."
Pusha T concurs, emphasizing their focus on the product: "[34:49] Pusha T: How do you feel when people leak music? Like when people release y'all music prematurely? Yo, you know, the game goes how it goes..."
Notable Quote:
"[35:22] Charlamagne Tha God: Did that change you? Cause you talk about on the record..."
7. Cousinz Festival in Virginia
Highlighting their commitment to their roots, Pusha T introduces the upcoming Cousinz Festival: "[59:59] Pusha T: Cousinz Festival is August 30th... featuring DJs, backyard bands, food trucks, and performances by Jeezy T, Pirani, Lil Kim."
Malice expresses enthusiasm: "[54:56] Malice: Virginia, don't be tripping. Virginia is cool."
8. Spirituality and Personal Growth
Both artists delve into their spiritual journeys and how it shapes their music and lives. Malice shares, "[62:33] Malice: God is everything to me first and foremost. It's not cliché. I need Jesus like I need water and food."
Pusha T reflects on personal transformation: "[13:06] Pusha T: My parents prepared me to be a dad, a real dad..."
Notable Quote:
"[36:00] Malice: One of the things I've learned is start with yourself before you try to correct anybody..."
9. Authenticity and Artistic Integrity
Discussing their approach to music, Pusha T emphasizes authenticity over mainstream trends: "[16:03] Pusha T: I've been in this 23 years... I don't feel like I gotta prove anything to anybody... This is for those who know and understand hip hop."
Malice adds, "[21:09] Malice: We don't have to overcompensate or manufacture anything. It's just what it is."
Notable Quote:
"[24:02] Pusha T: I've been trying to catch a body since the story of A.D. andon..."
10. Collaborations and Production
The duo discusses their collaborative process and minimalistic production style. Malice explains, "[57:26] Malice: It's a direct approach. Considering our vocals as instruments."
Pusha T praises their producer’s understanding: "[58:06] Pusha T: Our producer knows to keep it minimal so our vocals can cut through."
Notable Quote:
"[50:44] Pusha T: Urgency was the key word. The music needed to feel urgent the whole time."
11. Future Projects and Plans
Looking ahead, Clipse remains dedicated to their mission and roots. Pusha T expresses confidence in their growth: "[47:05] Pusha T: I'd like to think that our growth is something that needs to be studied and maturing in hip hop."
Malice reinforces their purpose: "[55:30] Malice: Making music with my brother and glorifying my God."
Notable Quote:
"[16:19] Pusha T: Musicians' integrity is about staying real. This is drawing a line in the sand for everybody."
12. Closing Remarks
The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks and reflections on their unity. Charlamagne Tha God acknowledges their bond: "[64:23] Charlamagne Tha God: Having an individual but when y'all together, you can really, really..."
Malice and Pusha T affirm their support for each other, reinforcing the strength of their partnership.
Conclusion
This episode of The Breakfast Club offers an intimate glimpse into Clipse's enduring legacy, their steadfast commitment to authenticity, and their deep-rooted connection to Virginia. Through candid discussions on spiritual growth, industry challenges, and creative processes, Pusha T and Malice showcase the resilience and depth that have defined their careers.
Notable Quotes:
- Pusha T on authenticity: "[16:03] I've been in this 23 years... I don't feel like I gotta prove anything to anybody."
- Malice on spirituality: "[62:33] God is everything to me first and foremost. It's not cliche. I need Jesus like I need water and food."
This summary captures the essence of the conversation, providing valuable insights for listeners and those unfamiliar with Clipse's journey.