Ever since being made the head menswear designer of Louis Vuitton, Pharrell Williams has made it a point to feature his famous friends and top collaborators in the company’s plans, both in front of the cameras and behind the scenes. His first Louis campaign prominently featured Rihanna, while both Clipse and Jay-Z appeared during his first Louis Vuitton fashion show. This year, he’s already collaborated on a collection with musical protégé, Tyler The Creator, and today, it was announced that Pusha T will be Louis Vuitton’s newest brand ambassador.
According to Women’s Wear Daily, a statement from the fashion house noted the two artists’ longstanding connection and praised Pusha’s “commitment to artistry” and “strong personal style.” It reads, “His ambassadorial nomination at Louis Vuitton is a testament to his commitment to artistry and a strong personal style, both echoing the maison’s own dedication to unique expression across fashion and culture.”
Clothing isn’t the only thing Push and Pharrell have been working on. Last month, Pusha told Vulture he and his brother (once again going by just Malice) have reunited as Clipse and have been recording a new album produced by Pharrell. The duo is also set to appear in Williams’ upcoming biopic, Piece By Piece which has been animated in the style of The Lego Movie.
Pusha T and fashion are synonymous. Don’t take our word for it. The Clipse rapper literally told Vogue that he considers fashion to be part of his DNA. He’s peppered in references to different brands in his raps, and he’s longtime friends with another fashion-forward icon, Pharrell. This bond proved to be beneficial yet again. Pharrell is the men’s creative director for Louis Vuitton. Pusha T, meanwhile, has become the brand’s latest global ambassador.
The collaboration was finalized on July 8. Louis Vuitton issued a glowing statement. “[Pusha T’s] ambassadorial nomination at Louis Vuitton is a testament to his commitment to artistry and a strong personal style,” the brand explained. “Both echoing the maison’s own dedication to unique expression across fashion and culture.” Louis Vuitton also praised the rapper’s ability to bring in different cultural influences to keep the brand relevant. “[His] role as house ambassador underscores Louis Vuitton’s vision of bringing together diverse cultural influences,” they added. “[And] build powerful storytelling within its storied menswear universe.”
Pusha T has some experience with the Louis Vuitton brand. He walked the runway at the Spring/Summer Men’s 2025 fashion show in Paris. He was joined by his brother and fellow Clipse rapper, No Malice. The duo even premiered a song at the event, “Birds Don’t Sing.” While the intermingling of fashion and rap makes seem unique, given Pusha’s main occupation, the rapper has made it clear that he sees the two as one in the same. He told Vogue that he fashion informs the hip-hop experience, the same exact way that hip-hop culture informs the latest fashion trends.
“I’ve never looked at hip hop as just rapping,” Pusha T explained. “It’s also about knowing what the fresh kicks were [and are], coming outside with the fresh fits. It always kept everyone very competitive, and I always looked at this as part of hip hop’s entirety. I’ve never separated fashion from the music.” Pusha’s mission statement is evident in his first Louis Vuitton ad campaign. The rapper is photographed wearing various Louis V items, including chains and a tracksuit. It’ll be exciting to see what Pusha T and Pharrell come up with.
With his sharp and unashamed look at street life, Pusha T, born Terrence Thornton, has left an unforgettable legacy in hip hop. From his earlier days as half of Clipse up to his celebrated solo career, Pusha T provides a guide on how to tell stories through music. He is the epitome of authentic rap. For those who have been following his journey and are interested in knowing more about him, these are the five most essential songs that best portray what Pusha T is all about.
Further, he has maintained a remarkable industry identity over time by being flexible but still sticking to his true self. Pusha T’s path represents both himself and the broader story of street life, showing its complexities, struggles, and glory. These tracks offer insight into Pusha T’s life, illustrating how much he has grown as an artist.
1. Grindin’ (With Clipse) (2002)
Pusha T and Malice, known together as Clipse, shot to the upper echelons of hip-hop stardom with their hit single “Grindin’.” Coming out in 2002, this breakout song from their first album, entitled Lord Willin’, became a classic thanks to its unmistakable beat. The song’s stripped-down production by The Neptunes perfectly complements Pusha T’s grimy rhymes about the daily hustle.
“Grindin’” also had an instant impact that was felt across the board, and it only served to cement Clipse’s position within rap. Pusha T’s bold delivery, along with his ability to tell stories, connected powerfully with his listeners. To date, this remains one of his trademark songs. It captures who he was when he just started out rapping, telling us more about how talented he is lyrically speaking.
2. “Numbers On The Boards” (2013)
In his debut album, My Name Is My Name, Pusha T demonstrated through the track “Numbers on the Boards” that he is a highly skilled solo rap artist. The 2013 song served as an introductory single for My Name Is My Name. To be more precise, it was marked by an unconventional rhythm and a very simple approach to the production. This was also represented a perfect background for Pusha T’s clever wordplay.
Here, Pusha T showed more of his potential as a solo artist amidst a crowded field. He rapped confidently, which signaled his preparedness to face adversities in the music industry without assistance from anyone else. Fans still love “Numbers on the Boards” because it shows what Pusha T intended to achieve with his art while also showcasing how good he is lyrically, even though you cannot see him.
Pusha T’s and Kendrick Lamar’s “Nosetalgia” is an autobiographical jam that takes minds deep into the recesses of their souls. It was released in 2013 as a part of My Name Is My Name, with both artists taking turns to describe what they went through on the streets during childhood. The verses from Pusha T have an unfiltered quality that stands out against the equally graphical narration from Lamar.
Moreover, Push and Lamar’s collaboration on “Nosetalgia” demonstrates the meaning of being a lyricist who paints vivid pictures. Both rappers’ experiences interweave this track, providing a thought-provoking piece that touches people’s hearts. With songs like this, Pusha T has proved his skill at telling excellent stories in music. It further makes him one of hip-hop’s most respected rappers.
4. “If You Know You Know” (2018)
“If You Know You Know” opens Pusha T’s 2018 album DAYTONA with a bold declaration of self-assurance. Kanye West’s minimalist production provides a stark yet powerful backdrop for Pusha T’s incisive lyrics. This track also sets the tone for the rest of the album, showcasing his ability to deliver concise, impactful storytelling with every bar.
The song quickly became a fan favorite, celebrated for its clever wordplay and unapologetic swagger. “If You Know You Know” encapsulates Pusha T’s mastery of his craft, reaffirming his status as one of hip hop’s elite. This track is a powerful introduction to DAYTONA, highlighting Pusha T’s lyrical dexterity and unwavering self-belief.
5. “The Story Of Adidon” (2018)
“The Story of Adidon” is one of the most talked-about tracks in Pusha T’s career. It was aimed squarely at his long-time rival, Drake. Released in 2018, this diss track features Pusha T delivering unflinching lyrics that delve into Drake’s personal life and career. The song’s impact was immediate and widespread, reigniting their feud and capturing hip-hop’s attention.
The intensity and boldness of “The Story of Adidon” highlight Pusha T’s fearless approach to his craft. The track’s confrontation and unfiltered bars demonstrate his willingness to tackle controversial subjects head-on. This song remains significant in Pusha T’s discography, showcasing his lyrical prowess and uncompromising attitude.
Louis Vuitton has named rapper Pusha T its latest house ambassador, showcasing Pharrell Williams’ knack for merging fashion and pop culture. Pusha T, renowned for his work with Clipse, has long been linked to Williams, who produced several tracks on his latest album, It’s Almost Dry. The relationship dates back to the Clipse’s debut album, Lord Willin’.
Pharrell Williams, the creative director of menswear at Vuitton since last year, continues to bring high-profile figures to the French fashion house. Pusha T, born Terrence LeVarr Thornton, and his brother No Malice were featured in Williams’ first show on the Pont Neuf bridge in Paris last June. This appointment highlights the deep-rooted relationship between the two Virginia Beach natives, cementing Pusha T’s influence in the fashion world.
Pusha T for Louis Vuitton. The Maison and Men’s Creative Director Pharrell Williams are pleased to welcome the artist as the newest House Ambassador, beginning a new chapter of Louis Vuitton’s longstanding commitment to the musical arts.#PushaT#PharrellWilliams#LouisVuittonpic.twitter.com/kPYQF3GLRY
It won’t be long before you hear new Pusha T music again. Speaking with Complex, King Push revealed he has been working on music in Paris.
Journalist Jordan Rose asked Push about the status of his Gangsta Grillz project and more. King Push gave insight into his creative process.
“I will say, there’s been a lot of work happening in Paris here lately, and it ain’t just fashion,” Push said. “People have been seeing the Clipse and seeing myself walking fashion shows and I’ve been in Paris a lot here lately. But it ain’t been all fashion. I will say that much.
“And shout out to DJ Drama. When it comes to the DJ Drama brand and Gangsta Grillz and how he feeds the streets, and what I do lyrically, bringing that together, we can hit any bar set.”
He later gave a timeline regarding solo Push or a return of Clipse: “I would 100% bet that you’re going to get new music from one of those entities that you just named. It’s going to be a win-win situation.”
Clipse are back. The Virginia duo haven’t dropped since 2009, but they have confirmed their plans to reunite with producer Pharrell Williams on their fourth studio album. Considering how good their stuff is when Pharrell is behind the boards, fans are in for a classic. The promo for the album definitely makes it seem that way. Clipse and Pharrell hosted a listening party for new album in Paris on June 20. Feedback was glowing, but it was Pusha T’s comments afterwards that got fans more excited.
The listening party revealed crucial details about the album. The album is reportedly 90% done, and rappers who have been confirmed to appear on the tracklist include Nas, John Legend, and Stove God Cooks. The revelations, didn’t stop there, though. Pusha quoted a tweet about the listening party, and wrote: “Plus a couple more features…” with an upside down smiley face emoji. The notion of a stacked feature list on a Clipse album is novel, given the tracklist for their first two releases. The guest verses were mainly handled by Re-Up Gang. Til the Casket Drops, their third album, had more star power to offer, but it’s also considered Clipse’s weakest. It also featured the least Pharrell production.
All the pieces are in play for the new album to work. Pusha T and Nas have never officially been on the same song. Nas was supposed to be on Push’s 2022 album It’s Almost Dry, but it never came together. “Nas was gonna be on my last verse of ‘Hear Me Clearly,’” he told Spotify. “I don’t know, man. It pisses me off. It was my biggest regret for the album.” Stove God Cooks has never worked with Pusha T either, though it’s easy to see, lyrically and stylistically, how they would mesh. If anything, John Legend is the head-scratcher of an inclusion. Legend’s image seems to clash with Clipse’s, but if anybody can make their incongruous sounds work, it’s Pharrell.
Pusha T and No Malice are confident the new album will be their most mature yet. The latter said as much during a recent profile with Vulture. “I think the album shows the supreme maturation of a rap duo,” he posited. “I think this is where you get the difference between taste and filler. This music is curated. This is a high taste-level piece of work. You can only have that level of taste when you have the fundamentals down to a science.” No Malice concurs. “This is what the true evolution of the Clipse looks like,” he concluded.
Clipse and Justin Timberlake have been linked for over two decades. The rap duo and the pop star both scored breakout hits with the Neptunes, and owe a great deal of their success to Pharrell Williams. Clipse and JT even worked together on the 2002 single “Like I Love You.” Both parties have had issues over the years, with Clipse breaking up and Timberlake becoming something of a pop culture pariah. The latter is currently being roasted by the internet over his recent drunk driving arrest. Despite the anti-Timberlake sentiment that’s taken root, however, Clipse maintain that they have nothing against the pop star.
Clipse, comprised of brothers Pusha T and No Malice, are back in the news. They’ve announced their first new song since 2009. They’ve also confirmed that their upcoming album will be entirely produced by Pharrell. Clipse and Justin Timberlake used to be on the same record label in the 2000s, but things became complicated when Pharrell and JT stopped working together. Pusha T claimed that Clipse and Pharrell-affiliated artists were shelved by the aforementioned label, Jive. This resulted in a four year gap between Clipse’s first and second albums. Pusha made it very clear, however, that he does not hold JT responsible. The rapper told TMZ that their issues were with Jive and not Timberlake. It was an “overall label thing,” he was quoted as saying. “[Not] a Justin thing.”
NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 04: (L-R) Pusha T and Malice of The Clipse perform during the CMJ Music Fest at The Knitting Factory November 4, 2006 in New York City. (Photo by Roger Kisby/Getty Images for CMJ)
This isn’t the first time Clipse members have discussed their relationship with Timberlake. The duo was asked their feelings on the “Sexyback” singer during a recent Vulture profile, and their story remained the same. “We never had a problem with Justin,” Pusha assured the interviewer. The rapper then noted the ways in which Jive Records made it difficult for them to succeed. The solo star explained how Jive frequently complained about the perceived one-dimensionality of Clipse’s music. “We went through all the ‘cocaine rap’ complaints,” he recalled. You get tired of it. Then you realize the people who only look at it that way aren’t even listening to the music correctly. You can’t even take their opinion as anything.”
Pusha T loves to beef, so it’s easy to take the rapper at his word when he says he’s cool with Justin Timberlake. Pusha is probably best known for bombing on Drake with 2018’s “The Story of Adidon,” which regained relevance in the wake of the Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar battle. The rapper didn’t play a role in the battle, but he admitted that he was impressed by Lamar’s rapping. “Euphoria” stood out to him, in particular. “Incredible, incredible display,” he told Vulture. “Incredible display of battle raps.”
In an exclusive interview with Vulture, Pusha T and No Malice (Clipse) announced that their new album will be entirely produced by Pharrell. This one heck of bombshell, as the Virginia-based duo are making their return after 15 long years. In 2009 we got Til The Casket Drops, which had eight songs featuring Pharrell production. So, it is great to hear that even after all of this time, the band is still getting back together. We do not much else about the record, as Pusha T and No Malice kept the details to a minimum. The important thing is we know we are getting a Clipse record soon, which will be one of high quality they promise.
“I think this is where you get the difference between taste and filler. This music is curated. This is a high taste-level piece of work. You can only have that level of taste when you have the fundamentals down to a science. I think it’s been definitely missing”, Push told Vulture. Malice doubled down on that take, affirming, “This is smart basketball. It’s fundamentals”.
“And not only that, it’s authenticity. It’s what rap should look like if you’re real about your craft, real about your experience, real about your storytelling. It’s bringing the fans along to see the growth, not trying to fit in or fabricate”, Malice added. If this is out of the blue news to you, there was some hope that a Clipse album could be a possibility. King Push did tell Complex that fans could “100% bet” on either getting a solo album from him or a reuniting effort. Additionally, the duo premiered an unreleased collab with John Legend at a Louis Vuitton show in Paris.
What are your thoughts on the next Clipse record being produced by Pharell? Will this be one of the best rap albums of the year, why or why not? Do you think this could be their strongest LP in their discography? When do you see them dropping this? We would like to hear what you have to say, so leave your thoughts in the comments. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Clipse and Pharrell. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.
The Neptunes (Pharrell and Chad Hugo) are a major part of the Clipse (Pusha T and No Malice) story: The production duo has been at the helm of all four Clipse albums, including their latest, 2009’s Til The Casket Drops. Now, Clipse is readying their first album in 15 years, and the whole thing is produced by Pharrell.
In a new Vulture interview, Pusha T said, “Pharrell producing everything is also an ode to the type of music and the type of albums we want to make. We still want to make full bodies of work. These are movies, man. These aren’t just songs. This isn’t just a collection of joints we went in and banged out.”
He also noted that he and No Malice didn’t work with Pharrell’s Neptunes partner Chad Hugo on the project.
Elsewhere, Pusha said about the album, “I think the album shows the supreme maturation of a rap duo. I think this is where you get the difference between taste and filler. This music is curated. This is a high taste-level piece of work. You can only have that level of taste when you have the fundamentals down to a science. I think it’s been definitely missing. Then there’s the competitive aspect.”
No Malice added, “This is smart basketball. It’s fundamentals. And not only that, it’s authenticity. It’s what rap should look like if you’re real about your craft, real about your experience, real about your storytelling. It’s bringing the fans along to see the growth, not trying to fit in or fabricate. It just seems like in other genres of music, they have the luxury of growing. For some reason, we act like we’re not supposed to evolve. This is what the true evolution of the Clipse looks like. It’s just good to be able to show that and still have high-level raps.”
Pharrell and Drake have always had a contentious relationship. Pharrell is best friends with Pusha T, the man who obliterated Drake’s public profile in 2018. The issues between Skateboard P and the 6 God was always unspoken, though. The two of them even collaborated on the remix to “Lemon” in 2017. Then the beef with Kendrick Lamar happened, and everything changed. K. Dot claimed to inherit the beef from P, and Drake taunted the Compton rapper by telling him to get Pharrell’s jewelry out of his house. It was all very messy. Many assumed Pharrell would keep quiet on the matter, but he might have just responded.
Pharrell dropped a new single on June 14 titled “Double Life.” The song is part of the Despicable Me 4 soundtrack, which is a franchise that helped the artist land the number one single “Happy.” It may sound wild, the notion of a rap diss being snuck into the soundtrack for a kid’s movie, but it seems like that is what P chose to do here. “Double Life” contains bars that appear to be specifically aimed at Drake and his, well, double life. “Lie detector time,” he raps. “Hey, what are you hiding?” Pharrell doubles down on this mysterious target with the lines: “Nothing wrong being private… Make sure it ain’t wrong.”
It’s worth noting that Pharrell is one of the most positive and optimistic voices in hip-hop. He’s always preaching kindness to fellow artists. He’s the guy who made “Happy,” like we said. The thing is, Drake has been sniping at him for a long time. The 6 God threw shots at Pharrell on the 2023 Travis Scott hit “Meltdown.” P is the only artist mentioned in “Family Matters” who didn’t directly diss Drake beforehand. It wouldn’t be absurd to assume Skateboard P decided to crack the seal on negativity for Drake’s sake. Most of the hip-hop did it in 2024 (and it’s June).
Pharrell is also the guy who rapped on and produced “Mr. Me Too” for Clipse. “Mr. Me Too” is diss for Drake’s mentor, Lil Wayne. P and Clipse felt like Weezy was copying their fashion sensibility, so they made a whole song mocking him. In this sense, Pharrell dissing Drake is a long time coming. We don’t have confirmation that Drizzy is the target of Pharrell’s Despicable Me 4 single, but it’s not hard to believe.
Pusha T is saluting Hov with his new chain. Copping a new pendant from Saint Jewels, King Push has a new anchor around his neck.
“The Anchor inspired by the culture, art, and history,” Saint Jewels shared on Instagram. “Made for @kingpush Pavé diamonds on solid white gold accented by a bronze rope, reverse set diamond end points. Multifaceted classic briolette cut diamonds handle the steering wheel.”
