Body Count’s Ice-T recently addressed why he tends to avoid overtly political statements in his band’s lyrics. He shared his thoughts in an interview with Metalshop TV. The rapper and musician discussed whether the current political climate in the United States is influencing Body Count’s next album.
Ice-T explained that he prefers to keep his lyrics broader rather than targeting specific political figures or parties. He pointed to a track from the band’s last album as an example.
“I write the lyrics. I personally stayed away from politics. We did ‘F*ck What You Heard’ [with lyrics like] ‘both wings are on the same bird’ on the last album, because at the end of the day, it’s government,” Ice-T said. “Whether you’re what side, whatever, it doesn’t really matter. At the end of the day, it’s government.”
He went on to describe why he finds it unnecessary to directly criticize the current administration in his music. He noted how widely recognized the country’s political problems already are.
“It’s so obvious that the United States is having a shit show right now, to the world. So to almost sing about it is redundant. It’s, like, we all know it. It’s obvious,” Ice-T continued. “So I try to pick things that are a little bit more abstract. You could come out and just talk shit about [U.S. president Donald] Trump forever, but it’s just, like, the world knows.”
Ice-T also shared a lighter perspective on race and accountability in America. He framed it as a small upside amid the broader political turmoil.
“One good thing about being black is we’re not held accountable for America’s deeds,” he said. “People are, like, ‘Y’all black. We not mad at y’all.’ We ain’t in charge of shit. So we’re just going along for the ride.”
Ice-T’s remarks come as Body Count continues to build on the momentum of their most recent full-length effort. The timing gives fans a clearer sense of where the band stands creatively.
“F*ck What You Heard” is taken from Body Count’s eighth studio album, Merciless, which came out on November 22, 2024, through Century Media Records. The track was released earlier that year as a single on July 19, 2024, alongside a music video that took direct aim at the country’s political landscape. This makes Ice-T’s comments about steering clear of overt politics somewhat notable given the song’s already pointed themes.
Merciless marked Body Count’s first new album in four years. The band first announced work on the record in June 2021, following a long development period. The album went on to chart internationally, landing at number 22 on the Austrian Albums chart, among other placements across Europe.
During the same Metalshop TV conversation, Ice-T and guitarist Ernie “C” Cunningham were asked whether they had already begun work on Body Count’s next album. The pair confirmed early development is underway. However, a release remains some time off, meaning fans should not expect new material in the immediate future.
Ice-T’s comments come as fans await further details on Body Count’s next studio release. Further updates may follow.
