John Legend recently expressed his concerns about his former friend and business partner, Kanye West. In a recent interview with The Times of London, Legend remarked on the drastic changes he has observed in West, once a highly talented artist whom he befriended and collaborated with in the mid-2000s.
Reflecting on their past friendship, Legend recalled West as a passionate and gifted individual with grand ambitions not only for himself but also for those around him. Legend indicated that it is disheartening to witness the current state of West, considering the optimism and creativity he once possessed.
Legend credited West with revitalizing his music career in 2004 by signing him to his label, GOOD Music. As one of the label’s early artists, Legend witnessed firsthand West’s rise to fame and subsequent struggles.
Despite their falling out in 2022 over West’s public support of Donald Trump, Legend never anticipated the extent of West’s controversial behavior. He expressed sadness over West’s apparent descent into obsessions with antisemitism and anti-blackness, noting a significant change following the passing of West’s mother in 2007.
Once lauded as a prominent figure in hip-hop, West has faced criticism for his offensive actions, including overt displays of antisemitism. His recent controversial actions, such as releasing a song titled “Heil Hitler” and displaying art resembling a swastika, have further tarnished his reputation.
Legend emphasized the need to acknowledge West’s troubling behavior while refraining from attempting to diagnose him. Despite their differences and West’s controversial actions, Legend continues to reflect on the fond memories of their earlier partnership.
