Summary
Creative Expression and Artistic Comparisons
In this interview from 2010,
Kanye West discusses his creative approach and artistic identity. He begins by addressing criticisms about comparing himself to influential creators like Michelangelo, Karl Lagerfeld, and Andy Warhol. West argues that creativity transcends age and status, suggesting even five-year-olds can be comparable to him when they're "completely creative and completely one with the energy and their dreams." He identifies with designers like Alexander McQueen and Marc Jacobs, suggesting they share his creative mindset.West emphasizes his commitment to authenticity and bringing childhood dreams to life through his music. He criticizes trends and conventional approaches in the music industry, highlighting how his songs break traditional structures with unusual lengths and unexpected features like guitar solos followed by rap verses.
Media Criticism and Music Reviews
West expresses frustration with music critics and reviewers, particularly their unwillingness to appreciate his innovative approach. He points out that despite never receiving "classic" or "perfect" ratings, his albums like
"College Dropout",
"Late Registration", and
"Graduation" significantly influenced rap music. He questions the legitimacy of critics who give his work "three and a half stars" despite his total dedication to his craft.He compares himself to "the Chinese kid in front of the tank" at Tiananmen Square, positioning himself against the media. West suggests he's fighting battles similar to those faced by Michael Jackson, explaining that when he clarifies his positions, he's speaking for other misunderstood artists and troubled youth.
Controversy and Public Perception
West references several controversies in his career, including his
comments about President Bush and the
Taylor Swift incident at the MTV Video Music Awards. He maintains that both actions reflected his honest perspective, though they resulted in significant professional consequences, including the
cancellation of his tour with Lady Gaga. He compares the media's reaction to his VMA incident to the historical case of Emmett Till, suggesting a disproportionate response.West criticizes award shows, particularly the Grammy Awards, questioning their legitimacy by pointing out past Album of the Year winners (Dixie Chicks, Herbie Hancock, Ray Charles, and Taylor Swift) and suggesting these choices don't accurately reflect musical impact. He argues his music videos deserved recognition comparable to Lauryn Hill's Grammy sweep.
Personal Growth and Creative Freedom
Despite professional setbacks, West describes gaining freedom through loss: "I completely lost everything but I gained everything because I lost the fear." He explains that having already lost so much, he feels liberated to take creative risks, resulting in projects like his
"Runaway" film and innovative music.West distances himself from his past "ego and arrogance," expressing a desire to help people by blending diverse cultural elements, comparing his approach to Steve Jobs' innovation with technology. He describes wanting to advance music by using new technology and merging different styles, from "synthesizer sounds with strings" to "classic Broadway melodies."
Cultural Commentary and Masculinity
The interview concludes with West's thoughts on masculinity and taste in American culture. He laments that appreciating aesthetics or showing courtesy is often labeled as shallow or unmasculine. He references his "Runaway" film as presenting "a protective male figure with some type of taste" and challenges stereotypes about his attitudes toward race, noting his diverse collaborations and ability to navigate between suburban and urban environments.West ends with an analogy comparing award shows to getting dressed up only to see your "girlfriend cheating on you," emphasizing the emotional investment artists make before facing disappointment and the professional risks of speaking out: "If you say anything, then you lose everything."*There may be errors on this page.