The New York City subway system has always been a canvas for the city’s vibrant culture, and now, it’s getting a fresh splash of color with the release of limited-edition Ice Spice MetroCards. The MTA has teamed up with Capitol Records to celebrate the Bronx-born rapper’s debut album, Y2K, by featuring her on 50,000 MetroCards available at select stations in Manhattan and the Bronx.
Starting today, commuters can snag these special MetroCards at four key subway stations: Fordham Rd (4 train), Fordham Rd (B/D trains), 34 St-Penn Station (A/C/E trains), and Times Square-42 St (N/Q/R/W/S/1/2/3/7 trains). These MetroCards, priced the same as regular ones at $1, are expected to become iconic collectibles, reflecting Ice Spice’s rising influence in the music industry.
Ice Spice, who first gained attention in 2021 while still in college, has quickly become a household name. Her viral hit “Munch (Feelin’ U)” on TikTok catapulted her into the spotlight, followed by successful singles like “Bikini Bottom” and “Deli.” Her collaborations with major artists such as Taylor Swift, PinkPantheress, and Nicki Minaj have further solidified her status. Recently, she released “Gimme a Light,” a track that samples Sean Paul’s classic “Gimme the Light,” hinting at the musical direction of her upcoming album.
The Y2K album cover, unveiled on social media, features Ice Spice in front of a customized subway station, with her name in graffiti and the album title painted on a trashcan. This imagery not only pays homage to her New York roots but also captures the essence of the city’s subway culture. The album, set to drop on July 26, promises to be a significant milestone in her career, featuring singles like “Pretty Girl” with Rema and “Think U The Sh*t.”
In addition to the album release, Ice Spice has announced her first headlining world tour, starting in Denmark on July 4 and hitting major U.S. cities from July 30. The tour will include performances in Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City, among others. Fans can expect to see her perform alongside supporting acts Cash Cobain and her go-to producer RIOTUSA.
The release of the Ice Spice MetroCards is timely, as the MTA plans to phase out MetroCards in favor of a contactless fare payment system next year. This makes the Ice Spice MetroCards not only a celebration of her debut album but also a part of the final chapter in the history of MetroCards. Previous artists featured on commemorative MetroCards include LL Cool J and Pop Smoke, marking significant cultural moments.
For those eager to get their hands on an Ice Spice MetroCard, the limited availability means acting fast. The cards are available at the Fordham Rd (4, B, D trains), 34 St-Penn Station (A, C, E trains), and Times Square-42 St (N, Q, R, W, S, 1, 2, 3, 7 trains) stations. With only 50,000 copies released, these MetroCards are expected to be in high demand.
Ice Spice’s rise to fame and her impact on New York City’s cultural landscape is undeniable. Her collaboration with the MTA not only highlights her achievements but also brings a fresh, youthful energy to the city’s iconic subway system. As the MTA transitions to a new era of contactless payments, the Ice Spice MetroCards serve as a nostalgic reminder of the city’s rich history and its ever-evolving cultural tapestry.
In the coming months, fans can look forward to more from Ice Spice, including her debut album Y2K and her world tour. As she continues to make waves in the music industry, her influence on New York City’s culture and beyond is set to grow even stronger. For now, the Ice Spice MetroCards offer a unique way for fans to connect with her journey and celebrate her success.
