After facing controversy over the original cover of her new project Y2K!, Ice Spice unveiled an alternate version on Sunday, June 23. The new cover shows the Bronx rapper towering over New York City’s skyline, holding a train in one hand while police helicopters fly nearby.
The new artwork maintains the blue and green color scheme of the previous version and features Ice Spice in leopard-print shorts and a cropped jacket. Additionally, a miniature version of the rapper is visible inside a second train running between her legs, adding a playful twist to the concept.
Despite the changes, the updated cover received mixed reactions. One comment, which garnered nearly 3,000 likes, criticized the artwork: “Girl, I love you, but [these] covers ain’t it. They look so cheap.” Another fan commented, “It’s giving Halloween Temu, and we are here for it!” However, some fans defended Ice Spice against accusations of copying Nicki Minaj’s Gag City concept. “She is from NYC, and that is where the setting of this album is supposed to be… y’all Barbs try to find anything to hate on her,” one supporter argued.
This isn’t the first time Ice Spice has faced backlash over her album artwork. On June 6, she responded to criticism of the original cover. “David LaChapelle is Y2K! [He’s so] sweet [and] legendary. He didn’t even charge me [because] he fks with a real bch,” she tweeted. “Thank you for all the incredible art you’ve put out through the years. This cover means everything to me [and] yes, ‘Y2K’ was placed on the trash can on purpose. Can [you] guess why?”
Despite the debates over her artistic choices, Ice Spice continues to make waves in the music industry. Her latest single, “Phat Butt”, released on June 21, includes a nod to Nicki Minaj. “Never lucky, I been blessed; Queen said I’m the princess/ Been gettin’ them big checks in a big house, havin’ rich sex,” she raps on the RIOTUSA-produced track, showing her appreciation for the rap icon.
The original Y2K! cover, shot by renowned photographer David LaChapelle, was meant to evoke the aesthetics of the early 2000s, aligning with the album’s title. Ice Spice’s choice to collaborate with LaChapelle reflects her dedication to creating visually striking and memorable artwork. The photographer is known for his bold and often provocative style, which has left a significant mark on pop culture.
While feedback on the cover art remains mixed, it’s clear that Ice Spice is unafraid to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues. Her willingness to address criticism head-on and engage with her fans demonstrates her commitment to her craft and her audience.
In the midst of these artistic endeavors, Ice Spice’s music continues to resonate with listeners. Her unique blend of catchy hooks and confident lyrics has garnered her a dedicated following. As she navigates the challenges and triumphs of her career, Ice Spice remains focused on her artistic vision, ensuring that each project reflects her authentic self.
With her sophomore album and the potential for more visually intriguing artwork, fans eagerly await what Ice Spice will deliver next. Whether through her music or her bold artistic statements, she continues to establish herself as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.
