YouTube's Head of Global Music Lyor Cohen has written an open letter to Kanye West, addressing the rapper's recent controversial actions and antisemitic behavior. Cohen, who previously worked with West as CEO of Def Jam Recordings, urges the artist to consider the impact of his words on Jewish communities.

The letter comes following several controversial incidents involving West, including:

• Antisemitic posts on X/Twitter on February 7
• Selling merchandise featuring Nazi symbols during Super Bowl weekend
• Facing a lawsuit from a former employee alleging verbal abuse and Hitler-praising text messages

Recent consequences for West's actions include:

• 33 & West talent agency dropping him after nine months
• Shopify removing his Yeezy.com merchandise shop

In his letter, Cohen emphasizes:

• The rise of antisemitism and the responsibility that comes with West's influence
• The historical collaboration between Jewish and Black communities in the music industry
• A call for West to use his platform for promoting understanding rather than division
• The importance of recognizing the Holocaust's impact and fighting against hate

The letter concludes with a plea for West to reflect on the shared legacy between communities and return to building bridges rather than creating division.

Related Articles

Previous Articles