John Legend Reveals How a Heartbreaking Event Triggered Kanye West’s ‘Sad Devolution’ and Their Friendship Fallout

John Legend recently shared his thoughts on Kanye West’s troubling changes over the years. In a conversation with The Sunday Times, he reflected on their friendship and West’s current situation, which has sparked significant backlash due to his antisemitic remarks.

Legend, who is 46, recalled how West, now 47, once inspired him with his passion and creativity. Back in 2004, their collaboration on West’s album, *The College Dropout*, propelled Legend’s career. “He was optimistic and full of dreams,” Legend noted. “It’s hard to watch him change so much.”

He emphasized that he never saw signs of West’s current troubling views. “It’s sad to see his decline,” Legend said, mentioning that he felt shattered by the transformation.

When asked why West changed, Legend hesitated to diagnose him, saying, “We’re not qualified to psychoanalyze him.” However, he pointed out a shift after West’s mother, Donda, passed away in 2007. Her sudden death, following cosmetic surgeries, seemed to mark a turning point for West. Legend said that her loss profoundly affected him, and he feels West’s struggles have gotten more intense over time.

Kanye has honored his mother in various ways, naming his albums *Donda* (2021) and *Donda 2* (2022) after her. He also established Donda Academy, a private school in California, in her memory.

Legend reminisced about how West’s early success helped his journey. “Kanye’s rise began with his work on Jay-Z’s album, *The Blueprint*, in 2001,” he shared. “I was part of that momentum, opening doors for my own music.” The success of *The College Dropout*, which sold 400,000 copies in its first week, led to widespread recognition for Legend.

While their professional bond flourished, their friendship faced challenges. In 2022, Legend acknowledged that differing political views had strained their relationship. West’s support for Donald Trump created a rift. Legend explained, “He was disappointed when I didn’t endorse his presidential run.” Their friendship has become distant since then, with Legend indicating that they are now on different paths.

This reflection on West’s journey not only highlights personal experiences but also serves as a snapshot of a larger cultural shift. Many observers have noted how celebrity influence can shape public discourse. As the music industry continues to evolve, the narratives surrounding artists like Kanye West provide crucial insights into the impact of fame and personal struggles on their lives and careers.

In summary, John Legend’s memories of Kanye West reveal a complex tale of friendship, loss, and the challenges of growing apart. It’s a reminder of how deeply personal experiences can shape public figures and their choices.

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