Clipse have previewed their new song “Chains & Whips,” featuring Kendrick Lamar, from their upcoming reunion album Let God Sort Em Out. The track debuted during a rooftop session with Pharrell Williams.
Kendrick’s verse takes aim at Hip Hop’s state: “Let’s be clear, Hip Hop died again / Half of my profits may go to Rakim / How many Judases done let me down? / But fuck it, the West mine’s, we right now.”
According to Pusha T, Def Jam objected to Lamar’s appearance and requested the verse be censored or removed. When the duo refused, Def Jam offered to drop them if they bought out the contract.
Their manager, Steven Victor, confirmed the Clipse paid a seven-figure sum to leave Def Jam and keep the song intact. Concerns reportedly stemmed from Kendrick’s public tension with Drake, who is currently suing UMG.
The Clipse are now signed to Roc Nation, with Let God Sort Em Out on the way.
