In a brand new Vanity Fair interview, Ye, previously referred to as Kanye West, addressed criticism surrounding the apology he printed in The Wall Street Journal on January 26.

The controversial mogul pushed again towards claims that the assertion was designed to reset his public picture forward of latest releases. The remarks arrive as Ye continues to face scrutiny for previous antisemitic feedback, their skilled fallout, and his long-public struggles with psychological well being.

Asked immediately whether or not the apology functioned as a strategic transfer to revive his profession and enterprise pursuits, Ye rejected the premise. He pointed to his present industrial efficiency, saying he stays “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 many platform’s most anticipated pre-saves, whereas his 2007 launch Graduation was probably the most streamed hip-hop album of 2025. According to Ye, these figures weaken the argument that the apology was financially motivated.

“This isn’t about reviving my commerciality,” he mentioned. “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 characterised the apology as an act of accountability somewhat than picture administration. He acknowledged the hurt brought on by his earlier 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 mentioned he now sees the “wreckage” left in its wake and doesn’t acknowledge that habits as consultant of who he’s. He emphasised the duty that comes with affect.

He famous that “so many people follow and listen to my every word,” and mentioned it was necessary to make clear “what side of history that I want to stand on,” which he described as “one of love and positivity.”

The interview additionally turned inward. Asked concerning the private penalties of his actions, Ye mentioned, “Every day that I wake up, it’s a checklist of everything that I said,” explaining that household bonds and long-standing friendships had been “tarnished” by impulsive remarks.

Ye additionally mentioned his ongoing challenges with medicine, describing being positioned on and brought off numerous therapies. He cited issues about unintended effects, together with feeling “zombified,” whereas stressing the issue of discovering the appropriate steadiness.

“I’m just trying to find what works for me,” he mentioned, framing stability as important to sustaining the progress he says he’s making.