Kanye West, the artist formerly known as Ye, has stirred controversy once again with a shocking revelation about his past, which he shared in a new song titled "COUSINS." Released on April 21, 2025, the track details an incestuous relationship he claims to have had with his male cousin, who is currently serving a life sentence for murder.
In the song, West, 47, reflects on his childhood experiences, stating that he engaged in sexual experimentation with his cousin from the ages of 6 to 14. He expressed remorse for introducing his cousin to explicit materials, saying, "Perhaps in my self-centered mess I felt it was my fault that I showed him those dirty magazines when he was 6 and then we acted out what we saw." This admission has drawn significant attention, with many fans and critics alike reacting to the disturbing content.
West explained in a tweet that the song is about his cousin, who is incarcerated for killing a pregnant woman. He stated, "This song is called COUSINS about my cousin that’s locked in jail for life for killing a pregnant lady a few years after I told him we wouldn’t 'look at dirty magazines together' anymore." His cousin's conviction reportedly occurred shortly after their childhood experiences.
The rapper recounted finding explicit magazines in his late mother Donda West's closet, which he described as different from those his father had. He mentioned that these magazines influenced their behavior, leading to intimate encounters. "My name is Ye and I sucked my cousin's d**k till I was 14," he confessed in the song, a line that has sparked widespread shock and criticism.
West's revelations come as he continues to navigate a tumultuous public image, marked by previous controversies, including his outspoken support for former President Trump and various erratic social media posts. His latest confession has reignited discussions about his mental health and the impact of childhood trauma. Many social media users expressed concern for both West and his cousin, with some labeling the confession as a cry for help.
In the past, West has spoken fondly of his cousin, even mentioning him during an interview with Jimmy Kimmel in 2018, where he stated, "My cousin is locked up for murder, and I love him. He did a bad thing, but I still love him." This sentiment reflects West's complex feelings about his cousin's actions and their shared past.
Reactions to West's new song and admissions have been mixed. Some fans expressed sympathy, suggesting that his revelations highlight the lasting effects of childhood trauma. One user tweeted, "I’m so sorry for him and the parties involved, I hope he was able to seek out help in regards to that situation and has come to terms, whatever that may be with it." Others, however, have taken a more critical stance, viewing his statements as attention-seeking behavior rather than a genuine call for help.
Amid the turmoil, West's ex-wife, Kim Kardashian, has also commented on the situation. She referenced the family member in question during a meeting with Marc M. Howard, president of the Frederick Douglass Project for Justice, stating that West's cousin has a double life sentence for a murder committed when he was just 17. This connection adds another layer of complexity to the narrative surrounding West's family dynamics.
As the public digests this latest chapter in West's life, the conversation continues to evolve. Many are left wondering about the implications of his revelations on his career and personal life. Will this confession affect his music and public perception? Or will it serve as a pivotal moment for West to seek healing and understanding?
In the accompanying visuals for the song, West included a mix of home videos, animated images, and disturbing content, which has further fueled the debate surrounding the appropriateness of his artistic expression. The visuals depict a chaotic blend of gun violence and semi-pornographic imagery, prompting discussions about the boundaries of art and personal narrative.
Despite the backlash, West's ability to provoke strong reactions remains undeniable. His willingness to share such intimate details about his past has sparked both outrage and empathy, illustrating the complexities of his character and the challenges he faces in the public eye.
As the fallout from this revelation continues, it remains to be seen how it will impact West's future projects and his relationship with fans. The music industry often grapples with the intersection of personal struggles and artistic expression, and West's latest work exemplifies this ongoing tension.
Ultimately, Kanye West's "COUSINS" serves not only as a personal narrative but as a reflection of broader societal issues regarding childhood trauma, mental health, and the consequences of one's actions. Whether viewed as a genuine confession or a publicity stunt, the song undeniably resonates with listeners, challenging them to confront uncomfortable truths about family, responsibility, and the complexities of human relationships.
