John Legend recently shared his thoughts on his former collaborator Kanye West, reflecting on the stark contrast between their past partnership and West’s current controversies. Legend, who credits West as a key figure in his rise to fame with the iconic album “Get Lifted,” described the situation as “sad, sometimes shocking.”
The two worked closely on “Get Lifted,” which was released two decades ago and achieved significant success, selling three million copies and winning three Grammy Awards. West, already an established artist at the time with his debut album “The College Dropout,” not only executive produced Legend’s album but also contributed alongside other notable producers like Dave Tozer, will.i.am, and Devo Springsteen. Legend remembers West fondly from that period as being “passionate, gifted, and having big dreams.”
However, Legend expressed his dismay at the path West has taken in recent years, citing instances of antisemitism and other offensive behaviors. He remarked that he did not anticipate such shifts, noting, “I didn’t see a hint of what we’re seeing now.” Legend attributed some of this change to the tragic death of West’s mother in 2007, suggesting that her passing marked a turning point for the artist. Legend stated, “His descent started then and seems to have accelerated recently,” acknowledging the complexity and difficulty in analyzing West’s mental state.
In reminiscing about “Get Lifted” as he prepares for its anniversary tour, Legend shared insights about his own life experiences at the time, illustrating how real emotions often influenced his songwriting.
This reflective commentary sheds light on the emotional journey both artists have taken over the years. While West’s trajectory has raised concerns, Legend’s acknowledgment of their past collaboration serves as a reminder of the power of creativity and the impact that interpersonal relationships can have in shaping one’s career. The hope is that both artists can find their way back to a place of inspiration and positivity, encouraging dialogue about mental health and the importance of support during challenging times.