Rapper Kanye West, now known as Ye, has said he is willing to speak directly to members of Britain’s Jewish community amid controversy over his headline act at this year’s Wireless festival, according to the BBC.
“My only goal is to come to London and put on a show of change, bring unity, peace and love through my music”Ye said, according to the BBC.
The artist stated that he wants to meet in person “to listen” and pointed out: “I know words aren’t enough – I have to show change through action. If you’re open, I’m here.”
Ye has been at the center of criticism for the past nearly five years following anti-Semitic, racist and pro-Nazi statements.
Among the most controversial gestures were the release of the song “Heil Hitler” and the sale of products with Nazi symbols.
In January, the rapper apologized in a message published in The Wall Street Journal, explaining that some of his behavior was caused by manic episodes brought on by bipolar disorder. Since then, Ye has been trying to get back into the public eye through music and performances.
Last week, he performed two sold-out concerts at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, with guests including Travis Scott and Lauryn Hill. On stage, West did not comment on his controversial past, telling fans: “We’re leaving it all behind tonight, aren’t we, LA?”
The decision to schedule Ye to headline Wireless in July generated backlash, prompting the withdrawal of several sponsors and criticism from British politicians.
Festival director Melvin Benn defended the choice, saying people should give it “forgiveness,” but admitted that the organizers did not consult the Jewish community before making the announcement.
“We probably should have and it might have been a mistake,” Benn testified.
Benn stated that there were attempts at dialogue after the announcement, but these were refused.
Asked what would happen if West performed “Heil Hitler” on stage, Benn explained: “It would have stopped the show immediately. We’ll have total control over the microphone. We’ve done that in the past.”
He also mentioned that the main sponsor, Pepsi, had initially approved the presence of the artist, but later withdrew.
The response of the Jewish community was firm. Phil Rosenberg, chairman of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, said the message did not provide security for members of the community.
“The community will need to see real remorse and change before they think the right place to test that sincerity is on the festival’s main stage”he said.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also said he was “deeply concerned” by West’s presence.
“Anti-Semitism in any form is unacceptable and must be fought firmly wherever it occurs,” Starmer said.
Melvin Benn also stated that the rapper recently received a visa to enter the UK, but the final decision remains with the Home Office: “The Home Secretary could withdraw it today. If he does, that’s the end of the matter.”
