Within a week of his third album release, rapper Lato has sparked discussions about the nature of his lyrics, particularly his feud with Ice Spice. Originally named Alyssa Michelle Stephens, Lato released his new album, Sugar Honey Iced Tea, on Friday, August 9. The project follows his 2022 album, 777.
The young rapper name-checks Ice Spice in several tracks, with cleverly written lyrics alluding to their popular feud in the past. The final song, S/O To Me, is obviously aimed at 24-year-old Ice Spice, as Lato raps, “When the ice melts it’s just water/ Wipe you off, I got plenty of towels on the shelf, it’s easy.”
To make sure it was clear enough, Lato also insulted Ice Spice by her original name, Isis Nigeria Gaston, with the lyrics, “Bye sis, the funny thing is you can’t look me in the eye, sis.” The insulting track fueled speculations about a Lato vs. Ice Spice feud, leaving fans online surprised by his fiery lyrics.
Ahead of the release, the 25-year-old artist sat down with Apple Music’s Ebro Darden to discuss his new album. The journalist pointed out the snipes he made at Ice Spice, which made him think there was something fishy about it, but Lato addressed the rumors with a casual response.
“It’s not a controversy to me though, it’s art. I think art can be interpreted and that’s the beauty of it. In real life, that’s not going to happen. In real life, it’s not a controversy,” the Big Energy singer explained in an Aug. 8 interview, according to Billboard .
Following the infamous Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar rap feud earlier this year, Lato said she’s tired of feuding with other artists. “I’m tired. Seriously, I’m tired of the feud. I’m going to put it out there, Lato has no issues with anybody,” the BET winner said.
Lato didn’t end her attack on the Barbie World rapper there. The third verse from S/O To Me takes a dig at Ice Spice’s collaboration with Taylor Swift for 2022’s Karma. “Karma will deal with you though, I promise, your justice awaits,” she says.
Interestingly, both rappers have mutually agreed on the alleged feud and denied any conflict between them. Aware of Latto’s jibe, Ice Spice spoke to Rolling Stone for their July 2024 cover story and called it a “friendly competition” but there was no real issue.
For her part, the former The Rap Game member downplayed Ice Spice, saying she doesn’t look like she’d be into rap battles. Latto told Billboard, “If I had to (battle), I’d have to do it with someone I’d want to battle against each other.” She wasn’t sure if Ice Spice would want to do it.
The discs on Sugar Honey Iced Tea are not limited to Ice Spice, as other artists are also featured – Nicki Minaj is among them. Lato’s new project also features exciting collaborations with Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, Flo Milli and Touchwood. The 21-track list includes songs such as Brockie, Sunday Service and There She Go.
Also read: Ice Spice slams audience for booing Taylor Swift’s song ‘Karma’ during Rolling Loud Europe festival