Kanye West Urges Music Industry to Address Him as Ye, Citing ‘Slave Name’ Concerns

In 2021, Kanye West made waves by legally changing his name to “Ye,” citing “personal reasons” in court documents. The rapper, known for hits like “Flashing Lights,” grabbed headlines globally with his decision to abandon his iconic stage name. Recently, West’s chief of staff, Milo Yiannopoulos, issued a letter on behalf of the 46-year-old artist, urging the music industry to refer to him as Ye. Yiannopoulos also detailed the reasons behind West’s choice to leave behind his former moniker.

What is the reason behind Kanye West’s desire to be referred to as Ye?

According to a letter obtained by Page Six, the team of the “Praise God” rapper expressed, “Ye is one of the most recognizable people in the world, on par with presidents and popes.” Milo Yiannopoulos, West’s chief of staff, elaborated, stating, “He didn’t take the decision to change his name, potentially sacrificing some of the immense value captured by the brand of ‘Kanye West,’ lightly. The change was made fully, legally, and permanently. This is who he is now. His name is Ye.”

Yiannopoulos further stated, “We are reaching out to streaming platforms, publishers, stores, unions, lyrics websites and data resellers,” emphasizing that the name change will be implemented universally. He expressed hope that these platforms would accurately reflect the new name and identity of such a significant figure.

Explaining West’s preference for being called “Ye,” Yiannopoulos revealed, “He has on several occasions referred to it as his slave name. Ye is a Black man in America who wants the right to full self-determination just like everyone else.” West initially hinted at his new name in 2018 with the release of his self-titled album, “Ye,” and even took to X, formerly Twitter, to announce, “formerly known as Kanye West.”