Kanye West says apology letter is not about reviving his commercial success

Kanye West, who now goes by Ye, has addressed criticism surrounding his recent public apology, stating that it was motivated by personal remorse rather than an attempt to boost his commercial image.

The rapper published a full-page apology letter in The Wall Street Journal earlier this week, addressing “those I’ve hurt” and expressing regret for antisemitic remarks and actions made during a manic episode.

In a follow-up email interview with Vanity Fair, Ye rejected the idea that the apology was a public relations move ahead of his upcoming album, Bully, which is expected to release later this week. He pointed to his continued commercial success, citing high Spotify streaming numbers throughout 2025 and renewed interest in his 2007 album Graduation, as evidence that the apology was not tied to promotion.

Ye described the apology as a deeply personal decision, saying the remorse he felt had been “heavy on my heart.” He offered renewed apologies to Jewish and Black communities, acknowledging that his past behavior went too far and did not reflect who he believes himself to be. He emphasized the responsibility that comes with being a public figure and said he wants to be associated with “love and positivity.”

The artist also discussed his mental health struggles, explaining that the controversial statements and actions occurred during a four-month manic episode in early 2025. During that period, Ye made antisemitic social media posts, sold merchandise featuring Nazi imagery, and released a song titled “Heil Hitler,” further damaging his public reputation and relationships.

According to Ye, changes in medication later led to a severe depressive episode, prompting his wife, Bianca Censori, to encourage him to seek treatment at a rehabilitation facility in Switzerland. He noted ongoing challenges with antipsychotic medication, particularly within the African American community, and said he continues to work toward finding the right balance for his mental health.