Throughout the interview Zane Lowe inquired about the thought process behind some of Yeezus' most polarizing songs. When asked about the song Black Skinhead, Kanye West replied, "This is what frustration sounds like." West acknowledged the fact that the song would have been a smash hit record had it not been for New Slaves being his first release. In the song Kanye details present day American consumers as new slaves and does not limit his sentiment to African-Americans. He attacks corporate America with lines like "F*ck you and your corporations, y'all n*ggas can't control me" which West believes is the reason songs from his recent album did not receive their usual airplay.
Mr. West also uses this opportunity to set the record straight regarding his seemingly brutal and egotistical personality. He claims that at heart he is a giving person and that all his artistic endeavors are a contribution to society, saying his reason for this, "I just want to help!" West explains that all his music dating from classic debut College Dropout until now has been the "codes to self-esteem" and that if you are a fan of Kanye West you are really a fan of yourself.
Kanye also delves deep into culture and explains the reasons why people are still being oppressed today. He sites Classism as the new Racism and that people are discriminated against for the amount of money they make and the type of clothes they wear. The concept of clean water only being "served to the fairer skinned" was also broken down as a metaphor for a greater ordeal in 21st century America where only certain people are afforded "nice things" while others are limited or left out completely. West responded to backlash from Yeezus track I am a God. Many called the song blasphemous while Kanye see it as a self-esteem building and uplifting track. "Who does he think he is" Kanye says quoting I am a God detractors, "I just told you who I thought I was, a god! Would it have been better if I had a song that said I am a nigger or I am a pimp?"
The Kanye West interview with Zane Lowe embodies the rhythm, heart, and culture of Hip Hop and gives great insight into what Hip Hop music and culture aim to do. Check out all 4 parts of the interview below:
