Analysis
In this interview
Kanye West talks about the
photo with the MAGA hat he had on, and he made a very controversial line, "When you hear about slavery for 400 years. For 400 years? That sounds like a choice."
Summary
Introduction and Context
During this TMZ interview,
Kanye West addresses his public support for Donald Trump, expressed through
wearing a "Make America Great Again" hat. The interview quickly becomes contentious when West makes statements about slavery that generate significant pushback from TMZ staff members. Throughout the interview, West attempts to explain his perspective on free thinking and his belief in breaking from conventional thought patterns.
Discussion About Medication and Media Influence
Early in the interview, West speaks extensively about his experience with medication and hospitalization. He reveals that he had been taking opioids following a liposuction procedure that he underwent because he was concerned about public perception of his appearance. West describes developing an addiction to these medications, initially taking two pills daily, which escalated to seven pills after hospitalization. He expresses that he has since reduced his medication intake significantly.West connects his medication experience to broader themes about media influence and social control. He suggests that people are "drugged out" not just literally but metaphorically through media influence and following others' opinions. He emphasizes his desire for "free thinking" and breaking away from controlled thought patterns, repeatedly stating that "today it all changes."
Controversial Statements and TMZ Staff Response
The most controversial portion of the interview occurs when West references earlier statements about slavery being "a choice." This prompts an immediate and passionate response from a TMZ staff member who stands up to address West directly. The staff member expresses disappointment and hurt, stating that West's comments ignore the real-world consequences of slavery's 400-year history and ongoing marginalization. He criticizes West's statements as "nonsensical" and contrasts West's artistic privilege with the daily struggles many people face due to historical inequities.
Confrontation and Attempted Reconciliation
The confrontation intensifies as West approaches the staff member, attempting to engage more directly. There's a moment of tension where the staff member initially seems concerned about West's approach, but West clarifies he wants to give him a hug and express love rather than fight. West apologizes for hurting the staff member with his words and for causing pain by wearing the MAGA hat "out of the blue." He acknowledges that his actions shocked people and didn't provide them "a way out of the pain."
Discussion of Black Community Issues
The conversation shifts to a discussion about violence within Black communities. West mentions Chicago violence statistics, suggesting there's disproportionate focus on white-on-black violence compared to black-on-black violence. Another TMZ staff member challenges this narrative, stating that many people are actively working to address violence in Black communities but don't receive the same media attention. This staff member expresses personal disappointment in West, stating that he had previously defended West but now feels "slapped in the face" by West's alignment with people who "mean me hard."
West's Views on Communication and Political Engagement
In the final portion of the interview, West advocates for communication across political divides. He specifically defends his engagement with Trump, stating that "Trump is a human being" in a powerful position who is helping business owners. West quotes Einstein's definition of insanity as "doing the same thing expecting a different result," suggesting that continued expressions of hate won't produce positive change. He proposes trying love instead and questions why it can't be acceptable for an influential rapper to speak with the president about creating change.West concludes by comparing himself to other "crazy" innovators like Steve Jobs, suggesting that sometimes "crazy" people are necessary to create change. He reiterates his apology for disappointing the Black community when he wore the MAGA hat but maintains that he's following "a bigger plan" and doing what "the universe" told him to do.*There may be errors on this page.