Ice Spice: The Bronx’s Drill Diva Redefining Hip-Hop in 2025

Ice Spice, born Isis Naija Gaston, has electrified the music world with her bold drill anthems, signature orange curls, and unapologetic Bronx attitude. From her viral TikTok breakout to Grammy nominations and high-profile collaborations, she’s become a Gen Z icon in just a few years. As of 2025, Ice Spice’s star continues to rise with her debut album Y2K!, lucrative brand deals, and a commanding presence in hip-hop.

This blog post dives into Ice Spice’s early life, education, career, family, relationships, net worth, and more, exploring her passions, controversies, and recent developments. Whether you’re a fan of her catchy bars or curious about her journey, this guide covers everything you need to know about the rapper shaking up the industry.

Early Life: Growing Up in the Bronx

A New Year’s Day Star

Ice Spice was born Isis Naija Gaston on January 1, 2000, in the Bronx, New York City, a vibrant hub of hip-hop culture that shaped her musical identity. Raised in the Fordham neighborhood, she grew up surrounded by the sounds of rap, reggaeton, and drill, which would later define her sound. Her childhood was marked by a passion for music, with dreams of rapping sparked by icons like Nicki Minaj and Lil’ Kim. In a 2023 Variety interview, she recalled writing rhymes as a child, a creative outlet that helped her navigate the challenges of her urban upbringing.

Parents: Charina Almanzar and Joseph Gaston

Ice Spice’s parents, Charina Almanzar and Joseph Gaston, divorced when she was two years old, leaving her to split time between their households. Her mother, a Dominican, worked multiple jobs to support the family, while her father, a Nigerian and former underground rapper, instilled a love for hip-hop. Though details about their personal lives are scarce, Ice Spice credits their support for her confidence and drive. In a 2023 GQ interview, she noted that her parents’ encouragement allowed her to pursue music fearlessly, despite their initial separation shaping her early years.

Siblings: Five Younger Siblings

Ice Spice is the eldest of five younger siblings, a mix of half-siblings from her parents’ subsequent relationships after their divorce. Her most notable sibling is her younger brother, Joey Gaston, a model and football player at Iona Prep with over 40,000 Instagram followers. Joey has embraced his sister’s fame, with fans attending his games in orange wigs to honor her signature look. In a 2023 GQ interview, Joey praised Ice Spice’s guidance, saying, “She’s always giving me tips because she always has my back”. Little is known about her other siblings, as Ice Spice keeps her family life private to shield them from the spotlight.

Early Influences and Challenges

Growing up in the Bronx, Ice Spice faced the typical challenges of urban life, including economic hardship and societal pressures. She found solace in music, idolizing artists like Jay-Z and Cardi B, whose Bronx roots resonated with her. Her mixed Nigerian-Dominican heritage gave her a unique perspective, blending African and Latin influences into her drill style. Despite her parents’ divorce, her family’s support provided a stable foundation, allowing her to dream big in a competitive industry.

Education: From High School to Viral Stardom

Schooling in the Bronx

Ice Spice attended Sacred Heart High School in Yonkers, where she graduated in 2018. She was involved in music and poetry, activities that nurtured her lyrical talent. However, she was more focused on creating music than academics, often recording demos in her free time. Her high school years were pivotal, as she began experimenting with drill beats and posting covers online.

College at Purchase College

After high school, Ice Spice enrolled at Purchase College (SUNY Purchase) in New York, pursuing a degree in communications. It was here that she began collaborating with producer RIOTUSA, a friend who became her creative partner. In a 2023 Today show interview, she said, “I always had a passion for music, and I feel like whatever people are passionate in, they’re going to end up doing”. She left college in 2021 to focus on her music career, a decision fueled by her growing online buzz.

Self-Taught in the Studio

Ice Spice’s true education came from hands-on experience in the studio and social media. Her collaboration with RIOTUSA on early tracks like “Name of Love” gained traction on SoundCloud, teaching her the power of digital platforms. Her viral Buss It Challenge on TikTok in 2021 was a crash course in leveraging social media, propelling her to sign with 10K Projects and Capitol Records in 2022.

Age and Physical Stats: The Bronx Baddie

Current Age in 2025

As of May 25, 2025, Ice Spice is 25 years old, born on January 1, 2000. Her youthful energy and Gen Z appeal have made her a cultural force, connecting with fans through her relatable lyrics and bold persona.

Height and Weight

Ice Spice stands at 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) tall, with a curvy figure that has become part of her signature look. Her weight is estimated at 120–130 pounds (54–59 kg), though she has addressed speculation about her physique, attributing changes to her rigorous tour schedule and healthier lifestyle choices. In a 2024 X Spaces chat, she debunked rumors of using Ozempic, emphasizing her natural transformation through performance demands.

Career: From TikTok to Grammy Nominations

Viral Breakout with “Munch (Feelin’ U)”

Ice Spice’s career exploded in 2022 with her single “Munch (Feelin’ U),” a drill anthem that went viral on TikTok, amassing over 2 billion views for the #munch challenge. The song’s catchy hook and Ice Spice’s nonchalant delivery earned praise from Drake, who played it on his Sirius XM radio show, boosting her credibility. She signed with 10K Projects and Capitol Records, releasing follow-up singles like “Bikini Bottom” and “In Ha Mood” for her debut EP, Like..? (2023).

Debut Album: Y2K!

In July 2024, Ice Spice released her debut album, Y2K!, a 10-track project featuring hits like “Think U the Shit (Fart),” “Phat Butt,” and “Did It First” with Central Cee. The album, blending drill and hip-hop, debuted in the Billboard 200 Top 20, showcasing her growth as an artist. Critics noted her “acid tongue and unbothered stance,” though some felt her hype outpaced her lyrical depth.

High-Profile Collaborations

Ice Spice’s collaborations have elevated her status:

Nicki Minaj: Worked on “Princess Diana” and “Barbie World” (2023), cementing her as a “Barbie sister”.
Taylor Swift: Featured on the remix of “Karma” (2023), a career-defining moment that left her in tears.
PinkPantheress: Collaborated on “Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2” (2023), a chart-topping hit.
Central Cee: Their 2024 track “Did It First” sparked dating rumors but showcased their chemistry.

Awards and Recognition

Ice Spice earned four Grammy nominations in 2024, including Best New Artist and Best Rap Song for “Munch.” She won an MTV VMA for Best New Artist in 2023 and was named a Billboard Women in Music honoree, with Taylor Swift praising her work ethic.

Family: A Private Support System

Parents’ Support

Charina Almanzar and Joseph Gaston have been supportive of Ice Spice’s career, despite their divorce when she was young. Her father’s background as an underground rapper inspired her, while her mother’s Dominican roots influenced her cultural pride. They prefer to stay out of the spotlight, allowing Ice Spice to focus on her music.

Siblings: Joey Gaston and Others

Ice Spice is protective of her five younger siblings, including Joey Gaston, a football player and model. Joey’s Instagram fame and fans’ orange-wig tributes at his games reflect Ice Spice’s influence. She has expressed a desire to spend more time with her siblings but prioritizes their privacy due to her hectic schedule. Details about her other siblings remain limited, as she shields them from media scrutiny.

Family Dynamics

The separation of her parents shaped Ice Spice’s resilience, as she navigated two households while pursuing her dreams. Her family’s support has been a constant, with Joey describing her as a guiding figure in his life. This bond grounds her amidst fame’s pressures.

Relationships: Keeping It Low-Key

Current Relationship Status

As of July 2024, Ice Spice confirmed she is single, debunking rumors about a romance with Central Cee after their “Did It First” collaboration. In a 2024 Los Angeles Times interview, she hinted at dating someone privately but kept details under wraps. Her focus remains on her career, with personal relationships taking a backseat.

Past Relationships and Rumors

Drake (2022): Spotted together at OVO Fest, sparking dating rumors, but Drake unfollowed her on Instagram, ending speculation.
Central Cee (2024): Their London outings and “Did It First” video fueled rumors, but Ice Spice clarified they are close friends.
Jason Cid (King Cid, 2024): Photographed together, but no relationship was confirmed.
Sauce Gardner (2024–2025): Recent sightings at a boxing event, dodging a kiss cam, sparked speculation, but no confirmation exists.

Marriage and Kids

Ice Spice is unmarried and has no children. On her track “Plenty Sun,” she rapped, “I ain’t got no f***ing kids, I got hella sons,” emphasizing her independence and focus on her career over family life.

Friends and Social Circle

Industry Connections

Nicki Minaj: A mentor and collaborator, Minaj’s support has been pivotal, with Ice Spice calling her a “Barbie sister”.
Taylor Swift: Their “Karma” collaboration led to a friendship, with Ice Spice praising Swift’s work ethic.
Central Cee: A close friend since their 2022 “Munch” remix, seen shopping together in London.
RIOTUSA: Her producer and college friend, instrumental in her sound and success.

Personal Friends

Ice Spice keeps her personal friendships private, often referring to her “baddies” in songs like “BB Belt”. Her inner circle includes childhood friends from the Bronx, though she rarely names them to protect their privacy. Her manager, James Rosemond Jr., is a key ally, strategizing her rise to fame.

Net Worth: A Rising Fortune

Estimated Wealth in 2025

Ice Spice’s net worth in 2025 ranges from $5–8 million, reflecting her rapid rise. Sources like Marca estimate $5 million, while Celebrity Net Worth and Parade report $8 million, driven by music royalties, concerts, streaming, and endorsements.

Income Sources

Music: Streaming revenue from hits like “Munch” and “Y2K!”, plus tour earnings.
Endorsements: Deals with Dunkin’ Donuts, Mercedes, Vogue, and Marc Jacobs.
Social Media: Sponsored posts on Instagram and TikTok.

Financial Growth

Her wealth has surged since her 2022 breakout, with projections suggesting it could reach $10–15 million by 2026 if her brand partnerships and music success continue.

Brand Contracts and Endorsements

Dunkin’ Donuts

In 2023, Ice Spice partnered with Dunkin’ Donuts for a promotional campaign tied to her “Munch” persona, a rare move for a rising star. The deal included a limited-edition drink, boosting her visibility.

Mercedes and Fashion Brands

Mercedes collaborated with Ice Spice in 2024, signaling her growing influence. She also worked with Vogue and Marc Jacobs, leveraging her unique style for fashion campaigns. Her Ivy Park x Adidas feature further solidified her fashion cred.

Future Partnerships

Ice Spice plans to expand into fashion, with her team eyeing collaborations with luxury brands like Chanel or Gucci, given her bold aesthetic.

House, Cars, and Lifestyle

Home

Ice Spice keeps her residence private, likely living in a New York City apartment or Los Angeles rental. No confirmed details exist about home ownership, reflecting her focus on privacy amidst fame.

Cars

While no specific car ownership is confirmed, Ice Spice was spotted in Central Cee’s Lamborghini in London in 2024, hinting at her access to luxury vehicles through her circle. Her lifestyle suggests she may own or lease high-end cars like a Mercedes-Benz, aligning with her brand deal.

Lifestyle

Ice Spice’s lifestyle blends Bronx grit with celebrity glamour. She frequents high-profile events, like Coachella and Paris Fashion Week, but maintains a low-key off-duty persona. Her love for travel and performing shapes her busy schedule, as noted in her 2024 X Spaces chat.

Movies and Entertainment Ventures

Acting and Media

Ice Spice has not starred in films but appeared in Beyoncé’s Ivy Park x Adidas campaign and music videos like “Barbie World” and “Karma.” Her theatrical performances suggest potential for acting, with fans speculating about future roles in music-driven projects.

Co-Actors and Collaborators

Her music videos feature collaborators like Nicki Minaj, Central Cee, and PinkPantheress, but no traditional co-actors. Her Kai Cenat livestream in 2023 showcased her charisma, hinting at media potential.

Politics and Views

Political Stance

Ice Spice has not publicly aligned with any political party, focusing instead on her music and cultural impact. She supports mental health awareness, sharing her struggles with anxiety in a 2023 interview, advocating for accessible mental health resources.

Social Issues

Her lyrics celebrate female empowerment and confidence, resonating with Gen Z and millennial audiences. She addressed body-shaming rumors in 2024, promoting self-acceptance and healthy living.

Concerts and Performances

Major Performances

Coachella 2024: Ice Spice’s set, featuring “Munch” and “Karma,” was a viral moment, with a shout-out to Taylor Swift.
Rolling Loud Miami 2024: A high-energy performance reviewed by HotNewHipHop.
Y2K! World Tour (2024–2025): Her debut headlining tour, selling out venues across North America and Europe.

Stage Presence

Ice Spice’s concerts are known for her sassy attitude, orange curls, and bold outfits, often featuring sparkly bodysuits and chunky jewelry. Her performances blend drill energy with pop appeal, captivating diverse audiences.

Fashion: The Orange-Haired Icon

Signature Style

Ice Spice’s fashion is a mix of streetwear and high fashion, defined by her orange curly afro and curvy silhouette. She favors Fendi, Balenciaga, and custom pieces, often seen in crop tops, mini skirts, and bold accessories. Her Fifth Element Leeloo costume for Halloween 2024 was a standout, earning praise for its accuracy.

Red Carpet Looks

At the 2023 MTV VMAs, she wore a white lace gown, blending elegance with her Bronx edge. Her Paris Fashion Week appearance in 2024, front row at Louis Vuitton, solidified her as a fashion influencer.

“Sexy Hot Bikini” Context

The keyword “sexy hot bikini” aligns with Ice Spice’s confident, body-positive image. Her music video for “Bikini Bottom” featured bold outfits, including swimsuit-inspired looks, emphasizing her curvy figure and playful style. Social media posts, like a 2024 Instagram selfie, showcase her in revealing outfits, fueling fan admiration and debate.

Social Media Presence and Followers

Platforms and Reach

As of 2025, Ice Spice’s social media presence is massive:

Instagram: 11.3 million followers, sharing fashion, music, and lifestyle content.
TikTok: 12.9 million followers, where her #munch challenge went viral.
X: 2.6 million followers, used for fan engagement and clapbacks.
YouTube: Over 1 million subscribers, featuring music videos and behind-the-scenes clips.

Content Strategy

Her posts balance glamour, humor, and authenticity, often featuring her orange curls and bold outfits. She engages fans with challenges like #munch and addresses rumors directly, as seen in her 2024 X Spaces chat.

Top Moments in Ice Spice’s Career

“Munch (Feelin’ U)” Viral Hit (2022): Launched her to fame with over 2 billion TikTok views.
Grammy Nominations (2024): Four nods, including Best New Artist, marking her industry arrival.
Taylor Swift Collaboration (2023): Featured on “Karma,” a tearful milestone.
Y2K! Album Release (2024): Her debut album debuted in the Billboard 200 Top 20.
Coachella 2024: A viral performance that solidified her stage presence.

Hobbies, Lifestyle, and Passions

Hobbies

Music Creation: Ice Spice spends hours in the studio, crafting drill beats with RIOTUSA.
Fashion Design: She’s expressed interest in launching her own clothing line.
Travel: Her tour schedule fuels her love for exploring new cities.

Lifestyle

Ice Spice balances a high-energy career with moments of relaxation, often chilling with friends in the Bronx or Los Angeles. Her love for food, like Dominican dishes from her mother’s heritage, is a personal touch she shares sparingly on social media.

Passions

She’s passionate about empowering young women, reflected in her confident lyrics and body-positive image. Her advocacy for mental health and her protective stance toward her siblings show her commitment to community and family.

Controversies and Rumors

Weight Loss Speculation

In 2024, Ice Spice’s slimmer physique sparked debate, with some fans alleging Ozempic use. She addressed this in an August 2024 X Spaces chat, attributing her weight loss to touring and healthier eating, saying, “I’m just living my life”. Fans were divided, with some praising her transformation and others body-shaming, prompting her to advocate for self-acceptance.

Latto Feud

Rumors of a beef with Latto surfaced in 2024, fueled by Ice Spice’s track “Think U the Shit (Fart),” perceived as a diss. She later downplayed the feud, but it remains a topic of fan speculation.

Central Cee Dating Rumors

Her 2024 collaboration with Central Cee on “Did It First” led to dating rumors, amplified by their London outings. Ice Spice clarified their friendship, but the drama with Cee’s ex, Madeline Argy, sparked TikTok beef.

AI-Generated Photos

In December 2024, AI-generated images of Ice Spice imagined as homeless went viral, prompting mixed reactions. Some fans criticized the insensitivity, while others compared her to Earl Sweatshirt in jest.