Rapper Kanye West is an extremely conflictual character in society today. Many in the rap industry think he is great while others think he is an immature cocky brat. So the question is, which one is it? To answer this, we must go to the reasons people use to describe him as bad in character or good.
Cocky
Critics are not the only ones saying Kanye West is cocky. He said this about himself (using a different word) in a song called "Classic" which was co written by Rakim, Nas, and KRS-one (all rappers). When he performs, his words are: "like a shiness, your highness is performing, look how long the line is…wonder what would take to be a legend like Nas is, that's so novice, I'm so polished, I got a right to be a little bit snobbish". In addition, a videotape backstage at the 2007 Grammys caught him cussing out the Grammys because he did not win. To top it off, he was quoted saying, "I'm definitely in the history books already.” Kanye West was even on Saturday Night Live for a parody on the issue. While it is funny, it does highlight that this is an issue. The other problem critics have is that he did not grow up with the same experiences that most of today's rappers have had; he did not grow up in "the hood.” A sharp contrast can be seen in rapper Jay-z who went (as he puts it) "from rags to riches.”
Confident
Kanye West has defended himself saying that what the media picks up as cocky is actually confidence. In addition, despite criticism, his music has been successful. He has released three albums and won nine Grammy awards. His success can be seen alone by the number of views his songs have had on Youtube. For the music video of his popular song "Stronger,” one post of it shows that over 35 million people have seen it. Two other songs, "Homecoming" and "Lollipop" (remix with lil wayne) have both had over 5 million views with "Flashing Lights" at just under 5 million. A song added 4 days ago reached over 80 thousand views ("Put On" with rapper Young Jeezy). Many others have over a million views or close to it. Kanye West would not be in the position he is in today without being good. This shows that he is not as cocky as portrayed because with "your highness is performing, look how long the line is…" is actually extremely accurate.
Conclusion
People's traits put them in "boxes.” It is easier to say that Kanye West is cocky or confident and a great musician. The truth is, Kanye West is both. You cannot say that you are going to be in history books, talk as if you are the best, and not be cocky. However, he is also confident, so essentially, he is a little cocky and confident. You cannot say that he is not confident when people actually do line up to see him perform. Kanye West is a cocky and sometimes immature person, but is also a confident and successful rapper who has made his mark in today's society.
