Kanye West Announces Retirement to Rich The Kid Before Dropping New Track
4 min read
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In a surprising turn of events, Kanye West, now known as Ye, informed fellow rapper and collaborator Rich The Kid that he is retiring from professional music. The revelation came via a text message exchange shared by Rich The Kid on his Instagram Story on Tuesday, July 9. Ye’s unexpected announcement has left fans and peers in shock, especially given his continued influence and presence in the music industry.
In the shared screenshot, Ye’s message to Rich The Kid was clear: “I’m retiring from professional music. Not sure what else to do.” This statement prompted an immediate response from Rich The Kid, who expressed disbelief and concern over Ye’s decision. “Retire? Why? The ppl NEED you. The music you & Ty & we have made was the BIGGEST STAMP in culture to this date. In 2024,” he wrote. Rich The Kid further urged Ye to reconsider, suggesting a hiatus instead of a complete retirement. “Drop Ye about mine & V2 and we do it all over again. The kids need you, big bra fasho. Maybe some time to chill but retiring ain’t it.”
Kanye West says he’s retiring from music 😳
— NFR Podcast (@nfr_podcast) July 9, 2024
“I am retiring from professional music”
“Not sure what else to do” pic.twitter.com/DLXTZcQkrn
While the initial announcement shocked many, it’s unclear if Ye is serious about his retirement plans or if this could be a strategic move ahead of new releases. The timing of this revelation is particularly intriguing, as it came just before the announcement of his new song with Consequence, titled “No Apologies,” set to drop on July 12.
Rich The Kid’s Instagram Story went viral, causing a stir among fans and media alike. Some fans expressed their disbelief and disappointment on social media platforms like X, with one user writing, “BOOOOOOOOOO NEVER Ngl I never thought I would hear him use the word retirement in life.” Another added, “That’s what happens when people don’t respect your genius. If it is true yeah should be mentioned with the greats of all time. An artist before anything.”
my goat retiring with Vultures as his last album please say sike rn pic.twitter.com/x7PZ9fxoBx
— WhosBreezy 🇵🇰 (@WhosBreezyUK) July 9, 2024
However, skepticism remains high, with some believing that this could be a marketing ploy leading up to Ye’s next big project. Rich The Kid quickly followed up his initial post by promoting his upcoming album, “Life’s a Gamble,” set to release on July 19. The album features Kanye West on two tracks, “Gimme a Second 2” and “Plain Jane,” along with contributions from other prominent artists such as Ty Dolla $ign, Offset, French Montana, Takeoff, and Quavo.
Not mad at it tbh. I know he’s lying but if he actually did quit it would be a good time to bow out
— King Wow (@wowthatshiphop) July 9, 2024
He’s my goat, but the time has come
— Thornhill 🍉 (@Thornhill4747) July 9, 2024
Adding to the confusion, Ty Dolla $ign announced plans for a listening party in South Korea for the “Vultures” album experience, slated for August 23 at Goyang Stadium. Tickets for this event are expected to go on sale later in July, further indicating that Ye’s involvement in music might not be over yet.
Ye’s impact on the music industry is undeniable, and his collaborations with artists like Rich The Kid have left a significant mark on the cultural landscape. Despite his controversial statements and actions in recent years, Ye’s music continues to resonate with a vast audience. His last project, “Vultures,” topped the Billboard 200 in February, marking his 11th project to reach the chart’s apex.
ACTUALLY WE DROPPING FRIDAY 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 7/19 https://t.co/OhbZHLXeYd pic.twitter.com/RjFzpGvhQ6
— Rich The Kid (@richthekid) July 9, 2024
The back-and-forth between Kanye West and Rich The Kid highlights the deep respect and admiration within the music community for Ye’s work. Whether or not Ye’s retirement from professional music becomes a reality, his influence and contributions will undoubtedly continue to shape the industry for years to come. For now, fans eagerly await the release of “No Apologies” and Rich The Kid’s new album, hoping for more musical gems from the enigmatic artist known as Ye.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
