Renowned American singer and songwriter, John Legend, has opened up about the troubled path of his former friend and long-time collaborator, Kanye West, shedding light on the possible emotional and mental health issues that have impacted the controversial rapper in recent years.
In a candid interview with The Times, Legend spoke thoughtfully about West’s dramatic transformation over the years, attributing a noticeable shift in his personality and public behavior to the loss of his beloved mother, Donda West, in 2007.
“After his mother passed in 2007, there was definitely a difference. His descent started then and seems to have accelerated recently,” Legend stated.
The Grammy-winning singer’s comments come amidst ongoing discussions surrounding Kanye West’s mental health, particularly after the rapper publicly revealed that he believes he was misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder. In past statements, West has claimed that he may actually be on the autism spectrum, and not bipolar as previously thought.
This revelation has sparked widespread dialogue in the media and online about how his mental state may have influenced some of his erratic behavior, controversial public remarks, and troubling views on sensitive issues such as race, religion, and politics.
Although John Legend acknowledged that he and Kanye West have drifted apart in recent years, he expressed concern about West’s current mental and emotional well-being, noting how difficult it has been to watch the acclaimed rapper spiral into controversy after controversy.
“It does feel sad, sometimes shocking, to see where he [Kanye West] is now,” Legend shared. “I didn’t see a hint of what we are seeing now — his obsessions with antisemitism, anti-blackness — and it is sad to see his devolution.”
Despite their friendship falling apart, Legend refrained from harsh criticism, instead approaching the situation with empathy. He admitted that while it’s tempting to dissect West’s actions from a psychological perspective, it’s not his place to diagnose or label his former friend.
“I don’t think we are qualified to psychoanalyse him,” Legend said. “But it’s clear something changed in him after his mother passed. She was a stabilizing force in his life.”
A Complicated Relationship
Kanye West and John Legend were once considered close friends and musical collaborators, having worked together on several successful projects. Legend was signed to West’s G.O.O.D. Music label in the early 2000s and credits West with playing a crucial role in launching his career. Their professional chemistry was evident in hits such as “Blame Game” and many more collaborative works.
However, in recent years, their relationship became strained due to political differences and Kanye’s increasingly controversial views. Legend has been openly critical of West’s support for former U.S. President Donald Trump, and West, in turn, accused Legend of being used by political forces to manipulate him.
Despite their falling out, Legend’s recent remarks were measured and empathetic, focusing more on Kanye’s mental health and less on their personal disagreements.
Mental Health in the Spotlight
West’s openness about his mental health has brought attention to the challenges faced by many individuals navigating fame while struggling with psychological conditions. His erratic behavior over the past decade — from his infamous outbursts on stage to his polarizing political stances and inflammatory social media posts — has raised concern from fans and colleagues alike.
His 2018 disclosure of his bipolar diagnosis sparked debates about mental health in the entertainment industry. However, in recent times, West has contested that diagnosis, saying he believes he is autistic and was misdiagnosed. This claim has yet to be supported by any verified medical evaluation, but it has reignited discussions about mental health awareness and the importance of accurate diagnoses.
Legend’s recent comments add a humanizing perspective to the conversation. Instead of simply criticizing West’s actions, he highlighted the emotional trauma and potential mental health challenges that may be driving them.
“There’s a lot of pain there,” Legend said. “And I think losing someone as significant as a mother, especially someone who was so deeply involved in your life and career, can unearth things that were hidden. It can change a person in profound ways.”
Public Reaction and Support
The interview has resonated with many fans who have watched Kanye West’s transformation over the years with growing concern. Social media users have praised John Legend’s thoughtful approach, with some calling his remarks a much-needed intervention in a conversation that often veers into mockery or judgment.
Mental health advocates have also commended Legend for his balanced and empathetic tone, reminding the public that even celebrities are vulnerable to psychological struggles, and their behavior often reflects deeper, unresolved issues.
While Kanye West has yet to publicly respond to John Legend’s comments, the conversation surrounding his mental health is far from over. As one of the most influential artists of the 21st century, his legacy continues to be shaped not just by his music but by the narrative around his personal challenges.
Conclusion
John Legend’s honest reflections offer a compassionate insight into Kanye West’s complex journey. By linking West’s downward spiral to the traumatic loss of his mother, Legend invites fans and the public to view the situation not just through the lens of controversy, but also through that of compassion and mental health awareness.
In an industry that often overlooks the emotional toll of fame, Legend’s words serve as a reminder that behind the headlines and outbursts are real human struggles — struggles that deserve understanding, support, and above all, empathy.
