Kanye West Insists on Being Called 'Ye,' Cites Name Change as Legal and Personal

The artist formerly known as Kanye West has officially changed his name to 'Ye,' describing his previous moniker as a 'slave name' and seeking full self-determination.

• In a letter penned by chief of staff Milo Yiannopoulos, Kanye West demands the music industry and major platforms refer to him as 'Ye', his legally changed name.
• The name change, described by West as shedding a 'slave name', was legally formalized in October 2021.
• West, now 'Ye', emphasizes the change reflects his right to self-determination as a Black man in America.
• The artist has previously linked his chosen name 'Ye' to its common use in the Bible, suggesting a broader, inclusive identity.
• The move has precedent in the entertainment industry, with artists like Diddy and Prince having undergone similar public rebrandings.

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