Analysis
One of the topics
Kanye West talks about how be believes the
radio is rigged.
Summary
Introduction and Media Criticism
The rant begins with
Kanye West expressing frustration toward various media entities. He repeatedly directs strong language toward radio stations, claiming that radio has "lied" to the audience. He extends this criticism to other platforms including Google and Facebook, suggesting these entities have been dishonest with the public. West clarifies that his criticism is aimed at the system rather than individual radio employees, acknowledging that many are "real people" with families who are restricted in what music they can play due to commercial pressures.
Music Industry Commentary
West discusses the music industry dynamics, particularly regarding airplay and recognition. He expresses admiration for several artists including
Drake, Frank Ocean, and particularly Kid Cudi, whom he praises enthusiastically. West suggests that radio stations repeatedly play certain songs due to external influences rather than merit. He mentions being influenced by artists like KRS-One, A Tribe Called Quest, and DMX, positioning himself within a lineage of what he considers authentic hip-hop artists.
MTV and Award Shows
A significant portion of the monologue addresses West's frustrations with MTV and award shows. He recounts being informed that Beyoncé would win Video of the Year for "Formation" over his
"Famous" video and Drake's "Hotline Bling." West expresses that he was hurt by this situation, referring to his previous public statements about Beyoncé deserving awards. He claims to have heard that Beyoncé wouldn't perform unless guaranteed a win, though he follows this by stating that "Beyoncé is great" and "Taylor Swift is great," suggesting a reluctance to directly criticize other artists.
Personal Risk and Authenticity
Throughout the monologue, West repeatedly emphasizes that he is taking personal and professional risks by speaking openly. He states: "I am putting my career, my life, my public well standing at risk when I talk to y'all like this." He positions his willingness to speak without restraint as an act of authenticity, contrasting it with what he characterizes as political calculation by others. West repeatedly uses the phrase "the vibes is back," suggesting a return to something he considers more genuine.
Calls to Fellow Artists
West directly addresses several artists and industry figures during his monologue. He calls out to Jay-Z multiple times, saying "Jay-Z call me. Akon, Jay-Z i know you got killers, please don't send them at my head, just call me, talk to me like a man." He also mentions DJ Khaled, expressing respect while simultaneously suggesting concern about potential consequences of his statements. West additionally references Q-Tip, expressing appreciation for his album while also asserting his autonomy: "Don't tell me how to be me."
Political Commentary
The monologue contains several references to contemporary politics. West mentions Donald Trump and uses phrases associated with Trump's campaign, including "Make America Great Again." This elicits negative reactions from the audience, which West acknowledges. He references Hillary Clinton and the 2016 election results, suggesting that media misled people about Clinton's chances of winning. West also mentions Barack Obama, making comments about limitations Obama faced while in office.
Technology and Social Media Figures
West specifically addresses Mark Zuckerberg, claiming that when he announced being $53 million in debt, Zuckerberg didn't call him despite allegedly promising help. West mentions that instead, Zuckerberg "went to look for aliens," contrasting this with his self-identification alongside Kid Cudi as "aliens right here."
Conclusion and Media Warning
West concludes his monologue by positioning himself as someone who aims to "change things" and expressing frustration that "things won't change until people admit their own falsehoods." He warns the press to prepare for what he characterizes as "passive aggressive, LeBron James, racist comments," suggesting an expectation of media criticism following his statements. The rant ends with West declaring "the show's over" as he walks off the stage.*There may be errors on this page.