John Legend Speaks on Kanye West: ‘It Is Sad to See His Devolution’
Kanye West and John Legend used to be collaborators and friends. West was once credited with discovering Legend and helping him launch his career. During the early 2000s, they were spotted together often, but that friendship has since cooled. Legend and West stopped speaking over their political beliefs, and Legend’s refusal to endorse West for president. While the former friends are no longer on speaking terms, Legend is still gripped by what is happening to his former collaborator. He recently opened up about West’s spiral, insisting the entire situation is very sad.
John Legend says Kanye West’s ‘devolution’ makes him sad
John Legend recently sat down for a chat with The Times of London. During the conversation, Legend talked about his early career, which quickly led to talks of Kanye West. Legend seemed apprehensive about discussing West’s controversial 2025, but he did note that he never saw a hint of what West would become in the early 2000s. He said that when they were working together, West was filled with optimism and dreamt big for himself and those around him. He said, “It is sad to see his devolution.”
Legend was careful not to throw around psychology labels while talking about West. He said he wanted to be careful not to psychoanalyze the hip-hop star. Still, he thinks he may have more insight than most into where West went astray. Legend said that, while he didn’t expect West to turn into who he has become, he felt a shift after the death of Donda West in 2007. Legend thinks the spiral may have begun way back then. The public didn’t get the first hints of the problem until years later.
Legend’s insight does make a fair bit of sense. While West had spent years in the spotlight, he didn’t begin to make odd decisions or rant openly until after his mother’s sudden death. While West has openly mourned the tragic loss, he hasn’t personally suggested his personality shift is directly related to his mother’s death.
How did Donda West die?
Donda West died on November 10, 2007. Donda, an English professor, died just one day after a cosmetic procedure. According to several sources, Donda received a breast reduction, tummy tuck, and liposuction. Dr. Jan Adams performed the procedures.
Donda West was sent home after the procedure to recover, but she began experiencing chest pain and other complications. She was rushed to an area hospital, where she later died. According to a report by the Los Angeles County Coroner’s office, Donda West died from coronary artery disease and multiple post-operative factors.
In response to her death, California passed the “Donda West Law” in 2009. The law requires patients to undergo a physical examination and receive medical clearance before elective cosmetic surgery. Dr. Adams’ surgical prowess was called into question after West’s death.
