In a new Vanity Fair interview, Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, addressed criticism surrounding the apology he published in The Wall Street Journal on January 26.
The controversial mogul pushed back against claims that the statement was designed to reset his public image ahead of new releases. The remarks arrive as Ye continues to face scrutiny for past antisemitic comments, their professional fallout, and his long-public struggles with mental health.
Asked directly whether the apology functioned as a strategic move to revive his career and business interests, Ye rejected the premise. He pointed to his current commercial performance, saying he remains “in the top 10 most listened-to artists overall in the U.S. on Spotify in 2025.”
He added that his forthcoming album, Bully, ranks among the platform’s most anticipated pre-saves, while his 2007 release Graduation was the most streamed hip-hop album of 2025. According to Ye, those figures weaken the argument that the apology was financially motivated.
“This isn’t about reviving my commerciality,” he said. “These remorseful feelings were so heavy on my heart and weighing on my spirit.”
Ye (Kanye West) Breaks Down Wall Street Journal Apology With Vanity Fair
Ye characterized the apology as an act of accountability rather than image management. He acknowledged the harm caused by his previous statements, saying, “I owe a huge apology once again for everything that I said that hurt the Jewish and Black communities in particular. All of it went too far.”
Reflecting on what he described as a bipolar episode, Ye said he now sees the “wreckage” left in its wake and does not recognize that behavior as representative of who he is. He emphasized the responsibility that comes with influence.
He noted that “so many people follow and listen to my every word,” and said it was important to clarify “what side of history that I want to stand on,” which he described as “one of love and positivity.”
The interview also turned inward. Asked about the personal consequences of his actions, Ye said, “Every day that I wake up, it’s a checklist of everything that I said,” explaining that family bonds and long-standing friendships were “tarnished” by impulsive remarks.
Ye also discussed his ongoing challenges with medication, describing being placed on and taken off various treatments. He cited concerns about side effects, including feeling “zombified,” while stressing the difficulty of finding the right balance.
“I’m just trying to find what works for me,” he said, framing stability as essential to maintaining the progress he says he is making.
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