Pusha T has openly expressed his disapproval regarding Drake’s ongoing legal battle with UMG, the parent company of Def Jam. This situation has become a point of contention in the hip-hop community, drawing attention to the complexities of artistic expression and legal constraints in the music industry.
During a recent interview with GQ, Pusha T and his brother Malice discussed their highly anticipated Clipse reunion album, Let God Sort Em Out. In the conversation, Pusha revealed that the legal issues surrounding Drake’s lawsuit impacted the collaborative process, particularly concerning a feature from Kendrick Lamar that faced significant hurdles.
Pusha elaborated on the demands from UMG, stating, “They wanted me to ask Kendrick to censor his verse, which of course I was never doing.” He detailed how UMG insisted on the removal of the track altogether, leading to a lengthy standoff. Ultimately, after much deliberation, the label decided to sever ties with both the Clipse and Pusha T himself, according to GQ.
Pusha T also shared that he faced similar challenges regarding his unreleased verses on Rick Ross’s “Maybach Music VI” and Pop Smoke’s posthumous track “Paranoia,” particularly following the release of “Story of Adidon.” These instances highlight the ongoing struggles artists face regarding creative freedom and corporate influence in the music industry.
Regarding Drake’s lawsuit, Pusha remarked, “If [Drake’s] adamant to have a lawsuit, it’s only because he knows all the things that they did to suppress everything that was happening around ‘Adidon’ and the verses and the records and things that were happening back then.” He expressed a lack of respect for Drake, stating, “The suing thing is bigger than some rap sh–. I just don’t rate you.” Pusha emphasized how litigation can detract from the artistry and authenticity of hip-hop, questioning the need for legal action over creative disagreements.
Despite the ongoing tension with Drake, Pusha T has no intention of reigniting their rivalry at this time. “I think after everything that had been done, I don’t think there was ever anything subliminal to be said ever again in life,” he reflected on their long-standing feud. He noted his personal experiences, stating, “I actually was in Canada. I actually had a show and made it home,” indicating that he has moved past the conflict. Pusha added that he would only consider engaging with Drake again if he felt it was necessary.
In another part of the interview, Pusha T discussed his current relationship with Ye (formerly known as Kanye West), expressing that he no longer sees his former collaborator as “a man.” This statement reflects the complexities and evolving dynamics within the music industry, especially among high-profile artists.
Recently, Ye tweeted about missing his friendship with Pusha T, which underscores the ongoing complexities of their relationship.
Recently, the Clipse unveiled “Ace Trumpets,” marking the release of their lead single from their long-awaited album, which is their first since 2009. This return to the music scene has generated excitement among fans and marks a significant moment for the duo.
