Song Exploder Clipse - The Birds Don't Sing
36 snips
Nov 12, 2025 
In this insightful conversation, Pusha T and Malice, the dynamic duo behind Clipse, share the poignant backstory of their song 'The Birds Don't Sing.' They discuss the emotional weight of writing after losing both parents within months, revealing how grief fueled their creativity. Pusha T reflects on the spontaneity of their lyrics, while Malice describes the deep bond they share as brothers and collaborators. Pharrell's contributions also shine, including his choice of John Legend for the hook and Stevie Wonder's magical touch, deepening the song's emotional resonance.
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Last Conversation Before Discovery
- Pusha T describes arguing with his mom about driving herself to dialysis and leaving shortly after she said she wouldn't drive anymore.
- He learned while traveling that his brother had found their mother unresponsive, which sent him home immediately.
Finding Their Father At Home
- Malice recounts finding his father unresponsive after friends reported he missed church and the paramedics' reaction confirmed the worst.
- He describes the surreal repeat of discovering both parents similarly, emphasizing the emotional impact.
Music As Grief Processing
- Pusha T says the group needed to make a song to process their grief and Pharrell felt a clear musical vision for it immediately.
- The beat's openness demanded precise, meaningful lines to match the emotional weight.