Opinions, we all have them.
However, imagine your thoughts plastered on the next headline.
Better yet, imagine millions of people idolizing you for your artistic form only to stop listening because of that opinion.
Kanye West finds himself in this situation more often than not.
West is no stranger to fuming critics and paparazzi with a lack of understanding for personal space.
A recent appearance on SNL, on Sept. 29, has shaken up fans and viewers, even actor and comedian Pete Davidson went as far to say that he left the scene, “in order to keep his career.”
The rapper made an appearance on the late-night comedy show and performed a series of chart-toppers from his new album Ye, such as “Ghost Town” in collaboration with Kid Cudi and his hit single “I Love It” featuring Lil Pump.
At the end of the episode, West decided to make a spontaneous speech about his political views, which evoked a variety of reactions from the cast, most not being too agreeable.
West has made many daring statements lacking factuality, such as when he said slavery was a choice on May 4.
The artist’s political stance and patriotism for a president that some of his musical peers may not appreciate throws him into high water.
In spite of it all, West recently made an appearance at the White House to speak with President Donald Trump and his son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Despite these disputes, the album Ye debuted at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200 and received acclaim from critics.
West was the main producer on this album, and has many collaborations with respected artists in the hip-hop genre such as Kid Cudi.
This begs the question: will a Kid Cudi fan such as Davidson dare to listen to his collaboration with West in the midst of misaligned political views?
The answer appears to be more gray than imagined.
David Tripold, Ph.D., Director of Choral Activities and professor in the Department of Music and Theatre Arts, proposes another example of an artist that’s musical work parallels to West’s scenario.
“The composer John Adams wrote the opera ‘Nixon in China’ because he marveled at the story of a U.S. president making inroads there,” he said.
Tripold added, “[Adams] was given a great libretto and it inspired him to write great music.”
“But he had no particular affinity for Richard Nixon personally or politically,” stated Tripold.
Historical or monumental events can spark an artistic vision, which tends to be the case with many musicians.
In such a contentious partisan climate, today’s college students are active in their political beliefs and the concept of social justice.
This is the age of activism and the situation with West does challenge many of his fans principles.
Noah Preschel, Music Director of WMCX and a junior communication student, mentions that West’s music plays at the station frequently.
“In terms of Kanye’s music, I believe he is a true pioneer in the evolution of Rap/Hip-Hop,” he said.
Preschel further stated, “His 2010 album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy is personally one of my favorite albums to this day and I often play his music on my radio show.”
There have been instances in the past where an artist’s music was boycotted by former fans because of unfavorable statements or actions.
Artists such as Chris Brown and Ariana Grande are prime examples.
Brown violently abused Rhianna on the way to the Grammys in 2009.
The artist was charged with a felony and fans condemned Brown’s actions.
On the other hand, Grande was videotaped jokingly declaring her disapproval of Americans’ dietary choices when she licked several donuts at a bakery.
When she licked the donuts, Grande said, “What the f— is this? I hate Americans. I hate America. That is disgusting.”
Although two completely different situations, these are incidents where artists have been in trouble, yet forgiven by their fans.
In regard to political controversies, it doesn’t factor into Preschel’s music choice.
“Honestly, politics usually shouldn’t play a part in what they listen to. If you like the music, you like the music simple as that,” Preschel said.
WMCX’s Music Director continued with, “However, in the current day and age, politics have been taking over all aspects of pop culture whether it would be music, sports, Hollywood you name it. So I see why people do the contrary.”
Davidson states that he wants to Make 2006 Kanye Great Again,” a quirky play on words in reference to Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan.
But was there ever a Kanye West that was not making ruckus in the tabloids or unapologetically stating his opinions?
Nevertheless, music is not circular; it can afford to be interpreted in a myriad of ways.
The tether to artists’ personal beliefs and their music can very well be lost to a certain audience hearing a different message.
Tripold stated, “I would assert that an artist can be inspired by anything; by a sunset, by loving someone, or even by a social issue or political point of view.”
“But his/her artistry doesn’t typically cling to these things in a material way, because the creative spark once ignited needs new fuel for new discoveries,” said Tripold.
This is par for the fame bus; all of your laundry dirty or clean, lays out to dry.
The public must choose their cards and decide if you are worth their time.
In the case of West, he appears to be continuing his journey in the music world successfully.
PHOTO TAKEN from Vox.com
