Clipse Releases Music Video for "Chains & Whips," Featuring Kendrick Lamar’s Influential Contribution

Clipse has unveiled the music video for their latest track "Chains & Whips," featuring a notable collaboration with Kendrick Lamar. This release is part of their comeback album, Let God Sort Em Out, marking their return after a lengthy hiatus since their last studio album in 2009, Til the Casket Drops.

Music Video Details

The video, directed by Gabriel Moses, showcases Clipse members Pusha T and Malice but does not include Kendrick Lamar, whose presence is felt through his impactful verse. The song has generated significant anticipation, especially after producer Pharrell Williams previewed it during a Louis Vuitton runway show earlier this year.

"Chains & Whips" is the second single from Let God Sort Em Out to receive an official music video, following the track “So Be It.” The collective excitement surrounding the video highlights the track’s prominence in the album and in modern hip-hop.

Controversial Background

Pusha T recently opened up about the circumstances surrounding Kendrick’s involvement in the track during an interview with GQ. He claimed that his collaboration with Lamar prompted significant tension with Def Jam Recordings. "They wanted me to ask Kendrick to censor his verse, which of course I was never doing," Pusha T stated. He further explained that the label requested he remove the song entirely from the album. This contentious backdrop adds a layer of complexity to the artistic freedom and integrity often debated in the music industry.

Significance of the Release

The release of Let God Sort Em Out and this music video signify a poignant return for Clipse, bringing back a unique sound that has influenced the genre for over a decade. Their partnership with Kendrick Lamar—not only as a featured artist but also as a figure representing industry challenges—brings an essential narrative to the track.

In conclusion, "Chains & Whips" represents more than just a musical collaboration; it encapsulates the struggles and triumphs of artists navigating the complexities of record labels and creative expression. This release may pave the way for more discussions on artistic freedom within the music industry, as well as the lasting influence of veteran artists in today’s rapidly evolving landscape.

To watch the music video, click here.