Clipse’s long-anticipated return with Let God Sort Em Out came with a surprising behind-the-scenes story involving a sample clearance issue that nearly derailed one of the album’s biggest tracks. Thanks to the timely intervention of legendary producer Swizz Beatz, the Virginia rap duo was able to get the version of “So Be It” they intended into the hands of fans—though not without some eleventh-hour maneuvering.
According to Steven Victor, Clipse’s longtime manager, the version of “So Be It” that initially appeared on streaming services was missing a key sample from “Maza Akoulou” by late Saudi Arabian singer Talal Maddah. The sample couldn’t be cleared in time for the album’s official release on July 11, which led to a stripped-down version going live first. The track had already gained buzz after the release of a visually striking video, with fans honing in on Pusha T’s final verse for what many interpreted as a direct shot at Travis Scott. But the absence of the sample in the digital version left some listeners puzzled.
Victor revealed more details in a conversation shared by Audiomack co-founder Brian Zisook on social media. As Victor tells it, Swizz Beatz reached out after realizing the situation, asking why he hadn’t been called in to help. “I told him, ‘I did — I sent it to you,’” Victor said. “He said, ‘I didn’t realize it was that record. Let me handle it.’”
Swizz Beatz, whose creative agency Good Intentions is based in Saudi Arabia, happened to be heading there the same day. Once on the ground, he took the matter into his own hands, personally connecting with the right people to get the necessary clearance. Thanks to his efforts, Roc Nation was able to upload the intended version of “So Be It” to all major streaming platforms shortly after the album’s release.
The incident highlights how critical the right connections can be in the music industry—and how quickly things can change with the right person pulling strings behind the scenes. Fans can now hear “So Be It” as it was originally meant to be heard, sample and all.