Ice Spice

Isis Naija Gaston, known professionally as Ice Spice, is an American rapper who burst onto the music scene in 2022 and quickly became one of the most talked-about new artists in hip-hop. Born on January 1, 2000, in the Bronx, New York City, she is of Dominican and Nigerian descent. Her father, Joseph Gaston, was an underground rapper, which exposed her to hip-hop from a young age. She attended SUNY Purchase, where she studied communications and began writing and recording music seriously.

Ice Spice’s breakthrough came with the release of “Munch (Feelin’ U)” in August 2022, which went viral on social media platforms, particularly Twitter and TikTok. The song’s catchy hook and her distinctive Bronx drill style caught the attention of major industry figures, including Drake, who played the track on his SiriusXM radio show. She quickly followed up with “Bikini Bottom” and “In Ha Mood,” both of which charted on the Billboard Hot 100. Her rapid ascent led to a deal with 10K Projects and Capitol Records.

In 2023, Ice Spice’s momentum accelerated dramatically. She collaborated with Taylor Swift on a remix of “Karma,” appeared on PinkPantheress’s “Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2,” and featured on Nicki Minaj’s “Barbie World” for the Barbie movie soundtrack. “Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2” reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100, while “Barbie World” peaked at number seven. Her debut EP, Like..?, showcased her blend of Bronx drill and melodic rap. She was nominated for Best New Artist at the 2024 Grammy Awards and performed at the Super Bowl in 2024.

Ice Spice released her debut studio album, Y2K!, in July 2024, featuring collaborations with Central Cee and Travis Scott. She has secured endorsement deals with Dunkin’ Donuts, launching a signature drink called the Ice Spice Munchkins Drink. She has also partnered with brands in fashion and beauty. Her rapid rise from viral Bronx rapper to mainstream pop-culture figure in under two years is one of the most remarkable ascents in recent music history.