“It’s sad now because we did amazing things together”- John Legend opens up about his current relationship with Kanye West

John Legend talked about his relationship with Kanye West, who now goes by Ye, during an appearance on Hot 97’s "Ebro in the Morning." The interview came as Legend promoted his 40-city world tour marking 20 years since Get Lifted came out. The discussion included their past collaborations and some of Ye’s recent public remarks.

During the chat, Legend spoke about Ye’s earlier comments in an interview with DJ Akademiks. Ye had made some odd personal digs, like teasing Legend’s sweaters and even saying he smelled like mashed potatoes. Legend addressed it with a bit of humor, joking about the type of mashed potatoes Ye could have meant. He then shifted gears to take a more thoughtful approach.

“He was very obsessed with the sweaters, and he said I smell like mashed potatoes,” Legend said of Ye’s comments. “What kind of potatoes? Cheesy, garlic? … All of it makes me sad, though. All of it does. And it’s not for me, because obviously, I smell great.”

Legend mentioned that the comments didn’t bother him on a personal level, though he admitted the whole situation left him feeling down. He pointed to Ye’s recent actions and controversies, like his connection to symbols tied to hate groups and statements others have seen as harmful. Legend called it upsetting to witness this kind of behavior from someone once admired for their impact on music, style, and art.
Legend said,

“It never affects me personally, but just the whole story is sad. Like, seeing this guy praise Hitler, seeing this guy be this force of hate and just vitriol and nastiness. Somebody who has made some of the great art of this century as an artist, as a performer, as a fashion designer, all of the things that he’s done to make the world more beautiful and interesting and then for him to be this now, it’s sad.”

John Legend recalls creative beginnings with Kanye West and reflects on their musical legacy

Thinking back on their earlier work together, John Legend reflected on the beginnings of their musical partnership. He said their collaboration felt full of energy and creativity as if they were helping to shape a big shift in the music world. Legend explained that their time working together was driven by hope and big dreams.

“He was full of so much energy and creativity and optimism and we really believed that we were starting a new movement in music, and being a part of that was inspiring,” he recalled. “It was truly inspiring. That’s why it’s sad now because we did amazing things together as a collective, as a movement. Just think about all the amazing music that came from it. The G.O.O.D. Fridays, all the things that happen during the first 10 years of his career, just thrilling and to be part of that was amazing. I have no regrets. Even though he’s gone completely left now, I’m so glad that we did what we did together.”

He explained that his personal relationship with Ye never included any political conversations. Legend mentioned that while they worked closely, he didn’t know much about Ye's views on historical or political matters. The way Ye’s public image and opinions have shifted in recent years, according to Legend, came as a surprise.

Although they’ve grown apart, John Legend said he feels no regrets about their collaborations. He acknowledged the importance of the music they made together and the mark it left.

Ye's representatives haven't responded to the interview. John Legend's comments come as he continues touring in celebration of a major milestone in his career, while reflecting on both the highs and complexities of past creative partnerships.