Stream: ScarLip – “Scarred B4 Fame”
ScarLip drops debut “Scarred B4 Fame” EP
ScarLip has officially arrived. The Bronx-born rapper just dropped her debut EP, Scarred B4 Fame, through Epic Records—and the city is watching. ScarLip isn’t just another name on the rise. She’s a voice, a movement, and the newest face of the New York sound.
With just seven tracks, Scarred B4 Fame introduces fans to a well-rounded, emotionally driven artist. She mixes pain with power, vulnerability with grit. From her fierce delivery to her soulful moments, ScarLip represents the full spectrum of modern hip hop, and she’s doing it her way.
From Bronx Roots to Hip-Hop Heights
ScarLip grew up in the Bronx—the same borough that birthed hip hop itself. Her early life shaped her voice. She discovered a love for poetry in school, particularly in English Language Arts class. It wasn’t just an escape. It was therapy. That love for language evolved into songwriting and, eventually, rap.
Her lyrics today are sharp, honest, and deeply rooted in personal truth. She never hides behind a persona. Instead, she leans into what makes her real: her pain, her joy, and her identity.
A Debut EP With Purpose and Power
Scarred B4 Fame is more than a collection of songs—it’s a mission statement. Each track showcases ScarLip’s versatility. She’s not boxed into one lane. She brings aggression, warmth, swagger, and reflection all at once.
Here’s a closer look at the seven songs:
- “Pop That” (feat. Lil Wayne)
The opener is bold and confident. Teaming with Lil Wayne, a longtime idol, ScarLip sets the tone immediately. Her energy matches his presence, and the chemistry is undeniable. - “Melanin”
A minimalist beat gives way to a powerful message. ScarLip celebrates Black beauty and confidence. It’s a strong ode to identity and pride. - “Eastside”
Breezy and light, this track captures the vibe of a summer fling in New York City. It’s a romantic detour from her usual grit, showing a playful side. - “Runaway Love”
ScarLip offers her own rendition of Ludacris’ classic. Her version brings urgency and emotional depth, proving she can modernize iconic material while making it personal. - “She’s Hot”
A high-energy anthem that recalls her early days. Nostalgic yet fresh, it’s chaotic in the best way. - “Lord Please” (feat. Anthony Hamilton)
The EP closes on a soulful note. Anthony Hamilton’s voice blends beautifully with ScarLip’s heartfelt verses. It’s a prayer for healing and peace.
Legendary Support and Strategic Collaborations
ScarLip’s co-signs are no accident. She’s attracted support from major industry names—artists who don’t co-sign lightly.
- Swizz Beatz helped secure her deal with Epic Records and remains a trusted mentor.
- Cardi B worked with ScarLip in the studio, offering feedback and guidance.
- Busta Rhymes brought her on stage during his BET Awards performance in 2024.
- Anthony Hamilton and Lil Wayne both feature on her debut project.
These collaborations highlight ScarLip’s versatility and promise. She’s able to connect with both hip hop royalty and R&B legends, without losing her voice.
“This Is New York” and Her Rise to Fame
ScarLip’s breakout moment came in 2023 with her viral hit, “This Is New York.” The song was aggressive, stripped-down, and unmistakably NYC. It caught the attention of listeners across the country and earned praise from longtime fans of the New York sound.
From that single moment, ScarLip’s trajectory changed. She went from poet and underground voice to a major contender in the mainstream hip hop conversation.
June Premiere Event: An NYC Celebration
On June 12, ScarLip hosted the Scarred B4 Fame premiere in Chelsea, Manhattan. Inside Invite Only Studios, industry insiders, fans, and media gathered to hear the full EP before it dropped. Among the guests was Swizz Beatz, who stood in strong support of the artist he helped usher into the spotlight.
The energy was raw, emotional, and celebratory. It wasn’t just a listening session—it was a full-circle moment for an artist who’s fought to be seen and heard.
From ABC News to XXL: A Banner Year
Just one day after the event, ScarLip appeared on ABC News with JuJu Chang. In the segment, she opened up about her past, her love for writing, and her transformation from poet to rapper.
That same month, she was officially included in the XXL Freshman Class of 2024—a major milestone for emerging hip hop artists. Past alumni include Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Megan Thee Stallion. Being named to the list places ScarLip firmly among future stars.
Why the “New York Sound” Still Matters
ScarLip is proud to carry the city on her back. She doesn’t stray from the gritty, soulful sound that made NYC a global hub for hip hop. Even while modernizing her style, she stays connected to the genre’s roots.
“This is what you get from the city,” she’s said. “And I’m keeping that sound. That New York sound.”
It’s a declaration that feels as personal as it is cultural.
Lessons from ScarLip’s Journey
ScarLip’s rise offers key takeaways for any creator:
- Authenticity wins. She didn’t chase trends. She led with truth.
- Community matters. From Cardi B to Swizz Beatz, she built real relationships.
- Balance your art. ScarLip merges vulnerability and toughness without compromise.
- Stay rooted. Her Bronx identity isn’t a backdrop—it’s the foundation.
- Be adaptable. Poetry became rap. Pain became power.
These lessons resonate beyond music, offering guidance for anyone on a creative or personal journey.
What’s Next for ScarLip?
With her debut EP out, fans want more. Visuals, tour dates, and potential new singles are on the horizon. If Scarred B4 Fame is the intro, then the next chapter could bring even more depth and surprise.
Expect more major collaborations. A full-length album is likely in the works. And live performances—especially in NYC—will give fans a chance to see her raw talent in real time.
ScarLip Is Just Getting Started
ScarLip’s Scarred B4 Fame marks the beginning of something much bigger. It’s a strong introduction to an artist with the talent, vision, and heart to lead a new generation of New York hip hop.
She’s not here to chase trends. She’s here to set the tone.
If you haven’t tapped in yet, now’s the time. The Bronx has another legend in the making—and her name is ScarLip.