- The rapper had previously issued an apology to Jewish people in late 2023 following earlier comments
- Although the song was quickly banned by major streaming platforms, it continued to circulate online
- West acknowledged that his actions, including the release of a song that praised Adolf Hitler, were deeply hurtful and wrong
Rapper Kanye West has publicly distanced himself from Nazism and expressed remorse over his past antisemitic remarks, attributing the controversial episodes to struggles with bipolar disorder.
In an open letter published on Monday by The Wall Street Journal, Eko Hot Blog gathered that the 48-year-old artist, now known as Ye, reflected on a period marked by erratic behavior that damaged his public image and cost him major business relationships.
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West acknowledged that his actions, including the release of a song that praised Adolf Hitler, were deeply hurtful and wrong.
The track, titled “Heil Hitler,” was released in May last year to coincide with the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s defeat in World War II.
Although the song was quickly banned by major streaming platforms, it continued to circulate online and reportedly led to the revocation of West’s Australian visa.
West explained that during manic phases associated with bipolar disorder, individuals often lack awareness of their condition, believing instead that others are overreacting.
He described those moments as periods of disconnection that impaired his judgment and led to reckless decisions.
“I regret and am deeply ashamed of my actions during those times,” he wrote, adding that he is committed to treatment, accountability, and lasting change.
While acknowledging that mental health challenges do not excuse his conduct, West stressed that he does not hold Nazi or antisemitic beliefs and reaffirmed his respect for the Jewish community.
The rapper had previously issued an apology to Jewish people in late 2023 following earlier comments that sparked widespread backlash.
His controversies in recent years have also included wearing a “White Lives Matter” shirt in 2022 and attending a dinner with former U.S. President Donald Trump alongside known white supremacist Nick Fuentes.
West, a 24-time Grammy Award winner, said he hopes his acknowledgment and commitment to change will mark a turning point in his personal and professional life.
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