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Kanye's Resurgence: Public Indifference to Misdeeds Leaves Labels in the Dust

Friday, 05 April 2024 13:49 Culture

Amidst the wreckage of his once-flourishing career, Kanye West appeared to have self-destructed in a whirlwind of controversy and offensive outbursts back in late 2022. From donning a White Lives Matter T-shirt to propagating antisemitic tropes, his actions left his record label, agency, and collaborators scrambling to distance themselves. The fallout was swift and devastating, with West losing the bulk of his net worth practically overnight.

Kanye Is Never Coming Back From This," screamed the headlines, painting a bleak future for the rapper whose missteps seemed irredeemable. However, in a remarkable turn of events, West has defied expectations. His latest collaborative album with Ty Dolla $ign, "Vultures 1," soared to the top of charts, securing the No 1 spot on the US Billboard 200 and No 2 on the British charts. The lead single, "Carnival," featuring Playboi Carti and Rich the Kid, even claimed the coveted No 1 position on the Billboard Hot 100.

Despite reports of venue reluctance, West recently headlined Rolling Loud Los Angeles alongside Dolla $ign, reaffirming his enduring appeal in the rap world. While his career has been punctuated by highs and lows, from interrupting Taylor Swift to his celebrated album "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy," his recent descent into controversy felt different—a departure into the realm of fringe conspiracy.

For years, West's omnipresence extended beyond music to encompass a multibillion-dollar sneaker empire, high-fashion collaborations, and a marriage to Kim Kardashian, solidifying his influence. Yet, without the backing of blue-chip brands, his cultural clout appeared precarious.

However, with "Vultures 1" soaring to the top, it seems the public's appetite for West's music remains undiminished, suggesting that while labels may care about his misdeeds, the public's loyalty remains unshaken.

The resurgence of Kanye West raises poignant questions about the public's attitude toward artists' misdeeds. It's a phenomenon long recognized in the entertainment industry: if the art remains palatable, the public often overlooks or forgives transgressions, no matter how unrepentant the artist may be. Examples abound, from Michael Jackson to R Kelly, whose music continues to dominate airwaves and streaming platforms despite allegations against them.

Consider the case of Michael Jackson—a new musical endorsed by his estate, "MJ," thrives in London's West End, suggesting audiences aren't overly concerned with the singer's controversial legacy. This indifference is particularly pronounced among younger generations; stars like Lil Uzi Vert and Playboi Carti, despite facing accusations of domestic assault, maintain immense popularity with little backlash.

In the digital age, platforms like TikTok propel tracks like West's "Carnival" to virality, drawing listeners who may be unaware or unconcerned about his past indiscretions. Music consumption often transcends ethical considerations, serving as a form of escapism rather than a moral referendum on the artist.

Furthermore, West's skepticism of the entertainment industry's treatment of black artists may insulate him from criticism, resonating with audiences disillusioned by institutional biases. His rightward shift also aligns with a broader cultural movement towards conservatism, where figures like Andrew Tate and Jordan Peterson garner substantial followings.

In a landscape where songs infused with right-wing and QAnon themes top the charts, West's ideological evolution appears less exceptional. Ultimately, his enduring popularity underscores a complex interplay of cultural dynamics, where artistic merit often eclipses personal controversy in the eyes of the public.

The swift reversal of fortune for Kanye West underscores the fickle nature of the entertainment industry, particularly when lucrative opportunities arise. Despite being dropped by labels and publishers, West finds solace in the unwavering support of major streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, which have prominently featured his songs from "Vultures 1" on popular playlists.

Adidas, too, appears willing to overlook past controversies in favor of profit, continuing to sell Yeezy-branded shoes and even experiencing a surge in share prices following the announcement of their resumed collaboration. Such decisions highlight the industry's pragmatic approach, prioritizing financial gains over moral qualms.

Rolling Loud's decision to swiftly book West for their festival reflects a similar sentiment—a recognition that public sentiment, as reflected by chart success, ultimately dictates profitability. While venues may still exhibit reluctance to host West, the overwhelming commercial success of "Vultures 1" suggests a potential for future haphazard festival tours.

Looking ahead, the reception of West's forthcoming albums, "Vultures 2" and "Vultures 3," will likely shape his trajectory within the industry. If they prove even remotely as successful as their predecessor, it may become increasingly untenable for the broader music and entertainment sectors to ostracize him indefinitely.

Ultimately, the public's resounding endorsement through financial support speaks volumes, challenging industry norms and prompting a reevaluation of West's standing. As the adage goes, money talks—and in West's case, it's clear that the public has already made its choice.

In conclusion, Kanye West's remarkable resurgence in the face of past controversies sheds light on the complexities of public perception and the pragmatism of the entertainment industry. Despite initial condemnations and severed ties, West's continued success on streaming platforms, in partnership with Adidas, and at festivals like Rolling Loud underscores a fundamental truth: in an industry driven by profit, financial gains often eclipse moral considerations.

As West navigates potential future endeavors, including the release of upcoming albums and potential tour opportunities, the undeniable commercial success of "Vultures 1" serves as a compelling argument for his continued relevance. The public's resounding endorsement through financial support signals a pivotal shift, challenging industry norms and prompting a reassessment of West's place within the cultural landscape.

Ultimately, West's comeback stands as a testament to the enduring power of artistic expression and the unpredictable nature of public sentiment. While questions surrounding his past behavior may linger, the overwhelming support he has garnered suggests that, in the eyes of many, his artistry transcends his misdeeds. As the industry grapples with these complexities, one thing remains clear: Kanye West's comeback is a testament to the enduring allure of music and the resilience of artistic vision in the face of adversity.

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