Kanye West Shares Insight on the Inspiration Behind His New Album ‘Bully’
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In a recent interview with rapper Justin Laboy, Kanye West revealed the motivation behind naming his upcoming album ‘Bully’. The 47-year-old ‘Carnival’ artist delved into his creative process and shared a touching anecdote about his 9-year-old son, Saint, whom he shares with ex-wife Kim Kardashian. West recounted a moment where Saint, during playtime, exhibited behaviour that struck a chord with him. “My son [Saint] was playing with some kid, and then he kicked him,” West recounted. “I asked my son, ‘why you do that?’ and he said, ‘because he’s weak.’ I was like, ‘this man is really a bully.'”
The album, scheduled for release on his daughter North’s birthday, marks West’s first musical offering in over three years. Throughout their decade-long relationship, West and Kardashian welcomed four children into their family: Psalm, 5, Chicago, 7, Saint, 9, and North, 11. Despite their separation, Kardashian has been vocal about the importance of supporting each other in co-parenting. In a February 2022 interview with Vogue, she emphasised the value of being a cheerleader for one’s co-parent, regardless of personal circumstances.
Maintaining a strong bond with his children post-split, West showcased his close relationship with them during a listening party for his album ‘Vultures 2’ in September. The event, held at the Wuyuan River Sports Stadium in Hainan, China, saw West bringing his children on stage to perform alongside him, adding a personal touch to the occasion. In footage shared on social media, the kids – visibly excited – joined their father, hand-in-hand, to entertain the crowd during his performance of “Everybody.”
North, the eldest of the siblings, also revealed her fashion influence, crediting her father and artists like Tyler, the Creator, for inspiring her style. In a cover story for Interview Magazine, North shared her love for streetwear and ’90s fashion aesthetics, drawing inspiration from iconic figures in the music industry like her dad. The budding fashionista’s unique sense of style reflects a blend of contemporary trends and nostalgic elements from past eras.
As Kanye West gears up for the release of ‘Bully’, his creative journey continues to intertwine with personal moments and family connections. The album title, inspired by a simple yet profound interaction with his son, symbolises a deeper narrative that resonates with themes of strength, assertion, and perhaps even vulnerability. With his music poised to make an impact once again, West’s artistic evolution mirrors his growth as a father, artist, and storyteller in the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry.
In an industry brimming with innovation and reinvention, Kanye West’s upcoming album stands as a testament to the multifaceted nature of his artistry. From intimate family moments to creative epiphanies, the album ‘Bully’ promises to offer listeners a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of emotions and experiences that define West’s musical legacy. As fans eagerly anticipate the release, the significance of familial ties and personal reflections embedded in the album’s narrative adds a layer of depth and authenticity to West’s artistic expression.