Clipse Members: Complete Guide to Pusha T & Malice
The Two Clipse Members: Complete Guide to Hip-Hop’s Legendary Duo
Clipse consists of two members: Pusha T (Terrence LeVarr Thornton) and Malice (Gene Elliott Thornton Jr.). These biological brothers from Virginia Beach formed the iconic hip-hop duo in 1994 and have since become one of the most respected acts in rap history. After a 16-year hiatus, they reunited in 2025 with the critically acclaimed album Let God Sort Em Out.
Quick Overview: Who Are the Clipse Members?
| Member | Real Name | Born | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pusha T | Terrence LeVarr Thornton | May 13, 1977 | Rapper, Songwriter |
| Malice (No Malice) | Gene Elliott Thornton Jr. | August 18, 1972 | Rapper, Songwriter |
Pusha T: The Younger Brother
Terrence LeVarr Thornton, known professionally as Pusha T, was born on May 13, 1977, in The Bronx, New York. When his family relocated to Virginia Beach in 1979, he was just two years old.
Before becoming “Pusha T,” he performed under the name “Terrar” during the duo’s early years. His stage name evolved as he developed his signature style – aggressive, cocaine-rap narratives delivered with surgical precision.
Pusha T’s Career Highlights:
- Co-founder of The Clipse (1994)
- President of GOOD Music (2015-present)
- Two Grammy nominations for Best Rap Album
- Solo albums include My Name Is My Name (2013), Daytona (2018), and It’s Almost Dry (2022)
- Known for legendary beefs with Drake, Lil Wayne, and others
While Malice stepped away from secular music after 2009, Pusha T continued to dominate the rap game solo. His 2018 album Daytona, produced entirely by Kanye West, is considered a modern classic.
Malice (No Malice): The Older Brother
Gene Elliott Thornton Jr., known as Malice (and later “No Malice”), was born on August 18, 1972, also in The Bronx. At 52 years old, he’s five years older than Pusha T.
Originally performing as “Malicious,” he shortened his name to “Malice” as the duo refined their image. After their third album Til the Casket Drops (2009), Gene experienced a profound spiritual transformation.
Malice’s Transformation:
- Converted to Christianity around 2010
- Changed stage name to “No Malice” to reflect his new faith
- Published autobiography Wretched, Pitiful, Poor, Blind and Naked
- Released solo gospel-influenced album Hear Ye Him (2013)
- Returned to the “Malice” name for the 2025 Clipse reunion
For 16 years, fans wondered if the brothers would ever reunite musically. Malice’s faith seemed incompatible with the drug-dealing narratives that defined The Clipse. But in 2025, they proved skeptics wrong.
Are the Clipse Members Related?
Yes, Pusha T and Malice are real biological brothers. They share the same parents – Gene Thornton Sr. and Mildred Thornton – and grew up together in Virginia Beach after moving from The Bronx.
Many fans who discovered The Clipse later in their career assumed they were twins because of their similar appearance and flawless chemistry on tracks. But there’s actually a five-year age gap between them.
For the full story on their brotherhood and family history, read our deep dive: Are Pusha T and Malice Brothers? The Real Story Behind The Clipse
The Clipse Discography: Albums by the Members
Together, Pusha T and Malice have released four studio albums as The Clipse:
- Lord Willin’ (2002) – Debut album featuring “Grindin'” and “When the Last Time”
- Hell Hath No Fury (2006) – Considered their masterpiece; ranked among the greatest rap albums ever
- Til the Casket Drops (2009) – Final album before the breakup
- Let God Sort Em Out (2025) – Reunion album produced entirely by Pharrell Williams
They also released mixtapes through their collective Re-Up Gang, which included artists Ab-Liva and Sandman.
The Neptunes Connection
No discussion of The Clipse members is complete without mentioning Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo – collectively known as The Neptunes.
Pharrell discovered the Thornton brothers in Virginia Beach during the early 1990s. His production on their first two albums created a sonic signature that influenced an entire generation of rap music. The Neptunes’ minimalist, synth-driven beats perfectly complemented Pusha T and Malice’s stark drug narratives.
When The Clipse reunited in 2025, it was Pharrell who brought them back together, producing the entire Let God Sort Em Out album.
Rep the Golden Era
The Clipse emerged from an era when hip-hop valued lyrical content above everything. If you appreciate that golden age sound – from The Clipse to BDP to Eric B. & Rakim – you’ll appreciate our collection of classic hip-hop gear.
Why Did The Clipse Break Up?
The Clipse didn’t have a dramatic falling out. Instead, Malice’s spiritual awakening made it impossible for him to continue rapping about drug dealing and street life.
As Pusha T explained in interviews, his brother approached him during a tour with a manuscript for his book about his Christian conversion. Malice essentially told Pusha T to pursue his solo career while he focused on his faith.
For years, Pusha T was devastated. He believed The Clipse could have dominated the rap game indefinitely. But he respected his brother’s decision and channeled that energy into becoming one of the most respected solo artists in hip-hop.
The 2025 Reunion
After 16 years apart, both Clipse members reunited for Let God Sort Em Out in 2025. The album features guest appearances from Nas and other legends, while Pharrell Williams handled all production.
What makes this reunion special is how it respects both brothers’ journeys. Malice – who returned to using “Malice” instead of “No Malice” for this project – found a way to address his past honestly while staying true to his faith. The album’s title itself suggests a mature approach to accountability.
Clipse Members: Then and Now
Pusha T Today (Age 47):
- President of GOOD Music
- Married to Virginia Williams since 2018
- Father to one son
- Still actively releasing solo music and touring
- Recently signed with CAA alongside Malice
Malice Today (Age 52):
- Author and speaker on faith and redemption
- Married with children
- Released faith-based solo music under “No Malice”
- Active in ministry and community work
- Reunited with Pusha T for touring and new music
Frequently Asked Questions
How many members are in Clipse?
Clipse has exactly two members: Pusha T (Terrence Thornton) and Malice (Gene Thornton). They are biological brothers from Virginia Beach, Virginia.
What are the Clipse members’ real names?
Pusha T’s real name is Terrence LeVarr Thornton. Malice’s real name is Gene Elliott Thornton Jr. Both were born in The Bronx before moving to Virginia.
How old are the Clipse members?
As of 2025, Pusha T is 47 years old (born May 13, 1977) and Malice is 52 years old (born August 18, 1972). There is a five-year age gap between them.
Are the Clipse members twins?
No, Pusha T and Malice are not twins. They are brothers with a five-year age difference. Many fans assumed they were twins due to their similar appearance and chemistry, but Malice is the older brother.
Is Clipse still together?
Yes! After a 16-year hiatus, The Clipse reunited in 2025 with their album Let God Sort Em Out, produced by Pharrell Williams. They are now touring together and have signed with CAA.
Why did Malice change his name to No Malice?
Malice became a born-again Christian around 2010 and felt his original stage name conflicted with his faith. He adopted “No Malice” to reflect his spiritual transformation, though he returned to “Malice” for the 2025 Clipse reunion.
Who discovered The Clipse?
Pharrell Williams discovered Pusha T and Malice in Virginia Beach during the early 1990s. He signed them to his Star Trak Entertainment label and produced their classic albums through The Neptunes.
