Kanye West stirs controversy by playing Diddy and R. Kelly tracks during DJ set

Kanye West made some bold choices during his latest DJ set, playing tracks from both Diddy and R. Kelly back-to-back, according to updates shared by producer Mike Hector on social media. 

The event, which took place over the weekend, saw West spinning songs from a variety of artists, including Prince, Eurythmics, The Eagles, and JAY-Z.

Hector, who was present at the event, posted on X (formerly Twitter), "I’m at this party and Kanye DJing. He played 2 Diddy songs and then an R. Kelly song right after. This n***a do not give a f*ck."

West’s decision to include R. Kelly in his set is consistent with his history of supporting the art of controversial figures. 

In 2019, during a Sunday Service performance, West discussed the idea of separating the art from the artist, arguing that despite the erratic behavior of some artists, their work should still be appreciated. 

He also referenced both R. Kelly and Diddy in his single "Carnival," rapping, "Anybody pissed off, gotta make ’em drink the urine / Now I’m Ye-Kelly, b*tch, now, I’m Bill Cosby, b*tch / Now, I’m Puff Daddy rich, that’s #MeToo me rich."

The rapper has faced criticism for his stance on controversial figures, including a notorious 2022 interview on Drink Champs where he labeled Diddy a "fed." 

West's latest DJ set is sure to stir further debate about his support for artists with problematic pasts.