Lyor Cohen Addresses Kanye West in Open Letter: “I Am Deeply Disappointed and Troubled”

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In a recent open letter, Lyor Cohen – who held significant positions at Def Jam Recordings from 1988 to 2004 and is renowned for his impact on hip-hop – addressed Kanye West. Cohen entered the music industry in the 1980s, working as a tour manager for Run-D.M.C., before becoming a vital player in Def Jam Recordings’ success, where he collaborated with artists like Jay Z, LL Cool J, DMX, and more.

In 2002, West affiliated with Roc-A-Fella Records, a branch of Def Jam Recordings, and it was under this label that he launched his successful debut album, “The College Dropout,” which hit the shelves in February 2004.

In the year 2004, Cohen departed to take on a role with Warner Music Group, leading their recorded music division. There, Cohen was instrumental in transitioning the label for the digital age, a move that eventually led to him securing a high-ranking position at YouTube in 2016. At present, Cohen holds the post of YouTube’s global head of music, where his primary focus has been on fostering connections between artists, labels, and the streaming platform’s business operations.

Read Cohen’s letter below:  

Hey Kanye,

I’m really disheartened and troubled by your recent actions involving the use of Nazi symbols and antisemitic remarks. Your words and actions aren’t just offensive, but they’re triggering to anyone who understands the horrors of the Holocaust and the pain endured by millions.

In these times when antisemitism is on the rise, your influence carries a significant responsibility. I implore you to be more mindful of the hurt your words cause to Jewish communities and everyone fighting against hate.

Your talent and reach could be utilized to heal and inspire, to bridge gaps and foster understanding. Instead, you’ve opted for a path that spreads discord and perpetuates harmful stereotypes.

The shared history between the Jewish and Black communities in music is something I believe you should consider. From the early days of jazz and blues to the pioneering work of Motown and beyond, our cultures have enriched each other through music and camaraderie.

I encourage you to reflect on this shared legacy and use your platform to strengthen the love and understanding that has always existed between our communities.

Sincerely,
Lyor

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2025-02-12 01:55