*eyerolls*
*heavy sighs*
Oh, this ol’ muh’fu-
*steps away from computer, breathes, and comes back*
Ok.
I’m gonna try as best as I can to make this as criticism-free as possible. But, boy, does Kanye West make it difficult. But, let’s be honest: a new album from ‘Ye in 2018 doesn’t garner as much excitement as it did in 2004. Or in 2010. Or in 2007. Or even in 2008 or 2013. And, let’s be more honest: it’s ‘Ye’s fault.
The former Chicago prodigy spent the past several weeks confusing and at times alienating his fanbase with his support for the MAGA demographic, eyebrow-raising comments on his relaunched Twitter account, a bizarre trip to the TMZ offices which culminated in him saying that “slavery was a choice,” an even more bizarre back-and-forth involving his wife, Rhymefest and Donda’s House, and just… all kinds of other stuff.
It’s honestly gotten so crazy that I’ve even seen people boo deejays at events when any Kanye music gets played. And as both a deejay and co-proprietor of this site, I’m technically supposed to separate the music from the man for the sake of professionalism. But, as a longtime fan of the music that has shaped my life, I can’t help but feel a bit frustrated (to say the least) about everything.
Listen, I don’t care about his family’s antics, his overhyped clothes and shoes, his blonde hair, his weight, or much else that goes on in his life, as they really don’t affect my own life in the slightest. I just care about his music, and Kanye did show all the way out on Pusha T‘s DAYTONA. So, now we’re into week two of an unofficial G.O.O.D. Music summer — which also sees projects from Nas, Teyana Taylor and a joint project between ‘Ye and Kid Cudi.
Like his Virginian predecessor, Ye’s new album, coincidentally titled ye, comes in at seven tracks and is produced in its entirety by him, with contributions from Cudi, Young Thug, Charlie Wilson, 070 Shake, Nicki Minaj, Ty Dolla $ign, Jeremih. I pray that the songs are more “If You Know You Know” and “Santeria” than “Scoopity Poop” and “Ye Vs. The People.”
The album, which features cover art of a picture that Kanye took on the way to the premiere, is available to stream everywhere. Press play below.
