Ice Spice has spoken out about the colorism comments surrounding her rapid success compared to fellow rapper Flo Milli. In a recent interview with Teen Vogue, the Bronx rapper discussed the more significant issue of colorism in the industry and expressed her reluctance to engage in negative conversations that put others down.
Ice Spice’s ascent to fame has sparked debates among fans, with some attributing her lighter complexion to her quick rise in the industry. Critics claim that colorism played a role in the “Munch (Feelin’ U)” rapper surpassing the career of Flo Milli, who entered the rap game several years prior. However, Ice Spice believes that the issue of colorism extends beyond her success and has been an ongoing conversation for generations.
Ice Spice Addresses Colorism Speculations
The “Princess Diana” rapper addressed the recent social media backlash she faced following her Hot 97 Summer Jam performance, where she brought out Flo Milli. Ice Spice acknowledged that negativity stemming from colorism discussions often comes from a place of ill-intent and aims to tear others down. She emphasized her refusal to feed into such negativity and expressed her commitment to rising above it.
Ice Spice has also faced rumors of being an industry plant due to her connections, particularly with her rapper father. However, she has chosen to keep her family life private, leaving her father’s identity unknown.
Fans have expressed varying opinions on Ice Spice’s success and connection to colorism. Some believe that while she has worked her way up in the industry, colorism cannot be completely ruled out as a factor. They argue that other dark-skinned artists, like Bree Runway, deserve equal recognition. However, the Bronx native’s achievements cannot be solely attributed to colorism, as her dedication, hard work, and connections have played significant roles.
Ice Spice’s Rise To Fame
Notable milestones and collaborations have marked Ice Spice’s rapid rise in the music industry. Following the success of “Munch (Feelin’ U),” she gained recognition from Drake, who praised her privately and invited her to OVO Fest 2022. She released several singles and her debut extended play, Like..?, which included the Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit “Boys a Liar Pt 2” featuring PinkPantheress.
Moreover, Ice Spice collaborated with Nicki Minaj on the “Princess Diana” remix and will release a new song titled “Barbie World” for the upcoming Barbie movie soundtrack. She also achieved the biggest streaming debut for a female rapper in Spotify history with her remix of Taylor Swift’s “Karma.” These accomplishments, combined with her numerous Top 5 Billboard 100 entries, attest to Ice Spice’s talent and industry recognition.
Ice Spice’s upbringing in the Bronx and her meeting with record producer RiotUSA at the State University of New York marked the beginning of her rap career. RiotUSA, the son of DJ Enuff from Hot 97, encouraged her to pursue rap seriously, recognizing the growing popularity of New York drill beats at the time.
With her unique curly orange hair and natural curvy body, Ice Spice has cultivated a distinct image. She draws inspiration from her father, an underground rapper who has taught her about the music industry since she was young. Ice Spice’s team emphasizes their independent investment in her breakthrough hit “Munch (Feelin’ U),” which has granted her ownership of her master and publishing rights.
Jimmy Henchmen Jr, the son of James Rosemond, a former record executive and convicted drug trafficker, manages Ice Spice. The industry experience and connections of Ice Spice’s team, including her familial ties, have likely contributed to the rapid growth of her career.
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