Malice
Malice is a rapper from Virginia Beach and a founding member of the hip-hop duo Clipse, alongside Pusha T. He was born Gene Elliott Thornton Jr. on August 18, 1972, in The Bronx, New York City. Since the late 1990s, Clipse helped define Virginia’s rap scene with their gritty street narratives and sharp lyricism, contributing a distinct voice to Southern hip-hop. Malice later shifted his focus toward solo work that explores spirituality, marking a significant evolution in his artistic identity. Malice’s career stands out for its rare shift from vivid depictions of the drug trade to reflective, faith-centered themes, a transition few Southern rappers have made so distinctly. His solo projects emphasize spiritual growth and redemption, creating a narrative arc that contrasts with Clipse’s earlier raw street tales. This unique blend of authentic regional storytelling and personal transformation has earned Malice a dedicated following within both the Virginia rap community and listeners drawn to faith-driven hip-hop.