Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Kanye West declares himself ‘new Moses’ as he demands release from Universal and Sony contract

‘I’m not gonna watch my people be enslaved,’ rapper wrote

Isobel Lewis
Tuesday 15 September 2020 05:18 EDT
Comments
Kanye West appears to walk on water at Sunday Service

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Kanye West has referred to himself as “the new Moses” while demanding that he be released from his record deal.

In a series of tweets shared on Monday (14 September) night, the rapper, who is currently running for the US presidency, tweeted about his position in the music industry.

In the since-deleted posts seen by Variety, West claimed that he was the “2nd richest black man in America” and that he would not be releasing music until he was released from his contract with Sony and Universal.

He then said that he wanted an apology from J Cole and Drake, comparing himself to Nat Turner, who led a slave rebellion in 1831.

These tweets were later deleted, with West seemingly backtracking on his comments against his fellow rappers. “I have the utmost respect for all brothers… no more dissing each other on labels we don’t own,” he posted.

“I need to see everybody’s contracts at Universal and Sony, I’m not gonna watch my people be enslaved,” he continued, adding: “I’m the new Moses.”

The Independent has contacted Universal and Sony for comment.

In recent years West, 43, has reconnected with his Christianity, running a weekly church event titled Sunday Service and producing gospel music.

During a recent Sunday Service event, the “Ultralight Beam” musician appeared to walk on water as he performed with his choir in the middle of a lake.

West is competing to be the next president as an independent candidate, but has been barred from appearing on the ballot in a number of states, including Arizona, Wisconsin and Virginia.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in