Controversial Take: Is Kanye West Really a Music Vulture?

Kanye West, the renowned musical and lyrical genius, recently dropped a collaborative album with Ty Dolla $ign under the name ¥$ (Ye ‘n’ Dollar). The album has secured the number three spot on Billboard’s Hot 200 chart, with the track “CARNIVAL” holding its ground for three weeks. However, Kanye’s music has taken a backseat to the controversies surrounding him, particularly his anti-semetic remarks that led to his removal from various major brands like Adidas and Balenciaga.

Despite the negative attention, Kanye West’s impact on the music industry cannot be denied. Many fans, including myself, grew up listening to his music. Personally, “Graduation” was a significant album in my life, and to this day, I still find myself listening to it. While streaming platforms may not provide substantial royalties to artists, I try to be mindful of supporting controversial figures.

One aspect of Kanye’s music that has garnered attention is his use of sampling. Sampling involves remixing pre-existing songs to create a new sound. Kanye West is known for incorporating this technique in his tracks. For example, his song “I Wonder” samples Labi Siffre’s “My Song,” despite the lyrics emphasizing the individuality of the track. The controversy around his sampling methods was further highlighted when iconic artist Ozzy Osbourne objected to Kanye sampling one of his songs without permission.

The album “Vultures” revolves around sampling, with nearly every track featuring samples from other songs or media. Songs like “STARS” and “KEYS TO MY LIFE” incorporate samples from various artists, while “PAID” features a snippet from Jodeci’s “Get On Up.” Kanye West’s daughter, North West, makes an appearance on the track “TALKING,” offering a unique twist to the album.

However, not all samples have been well-received. The track “BACK TO ME” samples a line from the movie “Dogma,” but the execution falls short of expectations. Despite some missteps, tracks like “HOODRAT” manage to stand out without relying on sampling from other songs.

Controversial lyrics also mark Kanye West’s album, with lines in songs like “STARS” and “VULTURES” stirring up discussions. References to sensitive topics like school shootings and provocative language raise eyebrows among listeners. The inclusion of Chris Brown on the track “BEG FORGIVENESS” further adds to the controversy surrounding the album.

In conclusion, Kanye West’s latest album may not resonate with all listeners due to its problematic lyrics and excessive sampling. While his legacy in the music industry is undeniable, the controversies surrounding him have overshadowed his musical contributions. As he continues to push boundaries, it remains to be seen how his artistry will be remembered in the years to come.