Kanye West has urged U.S. artists to adopt the business strategies of Nigerian, Chinese, and Indian musicians. He criticized their reliance on external management and Jewish investors, claiming it hinders independence. His comments sparked controversy, adding to recent clashes with industry figures, including Jay-Z’s family.
Kanye West has urged American artists to take cues from their Nigerian, Chinese, and Indian counterparts in managing their careers. In an interview with DJ Akademics, the rapper criticized U.S. artists for lacking financial independence and relying too much on external management, lawyers, and record labels.
West claimed that many American musicians fail to understand their contracts and business strategies, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation. He controversially argued that Jewish investors and lawyers dominate the industry, making it difficult for artists to establish true independence.
He praised Nigerian and Chinese entrepreneurs' financial discipline and industry control, suggesting that U.S. artists should emulate their self-sufficiency. “Until these artists can build their labels, networks, and platforms without outside investors, they will always be controlled,” he stated.
West’s comments have sparked mixed reactions, with some supporting his stance on artistic independence while others condemned his remarks as divisive.
The rapper has been making headlines for his outspoken opinions, including recent criticism of Jay-Z’s family and claims of betrayal by industry colleagues.
