Kanye West, one of the most influential and controversial figures in contemporary music, once again captured public attention with a series of shocking revelations posted on April 21, 2025, on the X platform. In a public outburst, the rapper and mogul shared intimate details of his childhood, including traumatic experiences with his cousin, which inspired his new song titled “Cousins.” The track, blending confessional lyrics with raw emotional storytelling, addresses early exposure to pornographic magazines and the reenactment of acts seen in those publications, something West suggests left deep marks on his life. The song also connects these memories to his cousin’s trajectory, who is currently serving a life sentence for a serious crime. At the time of the post, West had already deleted the tweet, but the impact of his words reverberated globally, sparking debates about trauma, guilt, and the responsibility of public figures when addressing sensitive topics. The song, yet to be officially released, is already considered one of the most personal and disturbing works in the artist’s career, who has never shied away from using his art to expose vulnerabilities.
At 47, Kanye West continues to challenge cultural and artistic norms, using his platform to share reflections that blend autobiography, provocation, and introspection. In “Cousins,” he describes how, as a child, he found explicit magazines hidden in his mother’s closet, different from his father’s Playboy issues. These discoveries, according to him, led to experimentations with his cousin, who was only six at the time. The song’s lyrics, partially shared in the tweet, are blunt and unsettling, with lines like “That’s when I gave my cousin head” and pleas for his cousin to keep it a secret. West clarifies that he is not attracted to men but uses the song to explore the confusion and guilt tied to these childhood experiences.
The impact of the revelations extends beyond the music, reigniting discussions about the lasting effects of childhood trauma and early exposure to sexual content. The mention of his cousin’s fate, sentenced to life in prison at 17 for the murder of a pregnant woman, adds a layer of tragedy to the narrative. While West does not establish a direct link between the events, the juxtaposition suggests a reflection on how formative experiences can shape life paths. His decision to share these memories publicly, on a platform accessible to millions, underscores the complexity of Kanye West as a public figure, oscillating between artistic genius and personal controversies.
Context of the new song ‘Cousins’
The song “Cousins” emerges at a time of intense controversies in Kanye West’s career. In recent years, the artist has faced criticism for antisemitic remarks, disputes with other musicians, and a series of personal issues, including his divorce from Kim Kardashian. His choice to use music to address such an intimate and traumatic topic reflects the approach that has always defined his career: turning personal pain into art. The track, according to West himself, does not seek to justify or label his experiences but to offer an honest portrayal of memories that have haunted him for decades.
The lyrics of “Cousins” are particularly striking for their candor. West describes how he and his cousin, still children, attempted to replicate what they saw in the magazines, without fully understanding the implications of their actions. This experience, he says, generated shame and secrecy, feelings that echo in the song’s lines. The reference to his cousin’s later crime adds further weight to the narrative, suggesting that West carries a sense of responsibility, even if indirect, for the paths they both took.
Choosing to share snippets of the song on X, a platform known for its immediacy and reach, amplified the impact of the revelations. The post, which included a snippet of the track, quickly spread before being deleted, but screenshots ensured the content remained in circulation. Public reaction was mixed, with some praising West’s courage in tackling such a sensitive topic, while others questioned the appropriateness of exposing such intimate details so publicly.
- Timeline of Kanye West’s revelations:
- April 21, 2025: Kanye West posts tweet with “Cousins” snippets on X.
- Same date: Post is deleted, but screenshots circulate online.
- Years earlier: West’s cousin is sentenced to life in prison for murder.
- Decades ago: Traumatic childhood experiences described in the song.
Kanye West’s trajectory and recent controversies
Kanye West, born on June 8, 1977, in Atlanta, Georgia, has been a central figure in music and pop culture for over two decades. With albums like The College Dropout (2004), Late Registration (2005), and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (2010), he redefined hip-hop, blending soul, pop, and experimental elements. Beyond music, West has made his mark as a fashion designer, entrepreneur, and producer, launching the Yeezy brand, which became a global phenomenon. His fortune, estimated at over $1 billion, reflects his influence across multiple industries.
However, West’s career is also marked by controversies. In 2022, he faced harsh criticism for antisemitic comments, leading to the loss of partnerships with brands like Adidas and Balenciaga. His public appearances, including meetings with political figures like Donald Trump, have divided fans and critics. In 2025, West made headlines again for disputes with other artists, such as The Game, who accused him of betrayal, and for claims that he was blocked from performing at the Super Bowl. These controversies reinforce West’s image as a polarizing figure, capable of inspiring both admiration and backlash.
The song “Cousins” fits into this context of constant scrutiny. By choosing to address such a personal topic, West seems to seek catharsis, using art to process traumas and share his story. However, the decision to reveal such intimate details raises questions about the boundaries between artistic expression and overexposure, especially in an era of social media where every word can be amplified and distorted.
Psychological impact of childhood trauma
Kanye West’s revelations in “Cousins” touch on a universal theme: the lasting effects of childhood trauma. Early exposure to sexual content, as West describes, is recognized by experts as a factor that can generate confusion, guilt, and psychological issues in adulthood. Children who encounter explicit materials without proper guidance often try to process these images inappropriately, which can lead to risky behaviors or persistent feelings of shame.
In West’s case, the song suggests that the experiences with his cousin shaped his view of himself and his relationships. The line “Perhaps in my self-centered mess I felt it was my fault” reflects a common feeling among survivors of childhood trauma: internalizing guilt for events beyond their control. The connection to his cousin’s crime, though not explicit, raises questions about how formative experiences can influence future choices, particularly in contexts of violence or marginalization.
West’s decision to address this topic publicly also highlights the importance of discussing mental health and trauma in communities where these issues remain taboo. As an influential figure in African-American culture, his openness may encourage others to seek help or share their own stories, though the explicit tone of the song also raises concerns about its impact on younger or vulnerable listeners.
Public reaction and cultural debate
Kanye West’s post on X sparked a wave of reactions, with thousands of users commenting, sharing, and criticizing his words. Some fans praised the artist’s vulnerability, seeing “Cousins” as a courageous attempt to confront personal demons. Others, however, deemed the revelation unnecessary or sensationalist, questioning why West chose a public platform to share something so intimate. The mention of his cousin’s crime also stirred controversy, with critics arguing that linking the events could stigmatize trauma survivors.
The debate extends to the responsibility of public figures when addressing sensitive topics. Kanye West, with his global influence, has the power to shape cultural conversations but also faces the risk of his words being misinterpreted or exploited. The deletion of the original tweet suggests that West, or his team, recognized the potential negative impact of the post, but the content had already spread widely, fueling headlines and online discussions.
The song “Cousins” has not yet been officially released, but the shared snippets already position it as one of the most talked-about works of 2025. Its raw, unfiltered approach reinforces West’s reputation as an artist who doesn’t shy away from crossing boundaries, even if it means alienating part of his audience. The music industry’s response, including from artists like Cam’ron, who recently criticized West, will be crucial in determining the track’s impact on his career.
- Reactions to the song ‘Cousins’:
- Praise for the courage to address personal trauma.
- Criticism for the explicit and sensationalist exposure.
- Debates about the connection to the cousin’s crime.
- Anticipation for the official release of the track.
Cultural context and exposure to explicit content
The story told in “Cousins” reflects a broader issue: children’s exposure to explicit content in domestic environments. In the United States, where West grew up, studies indicate that about 70% of children encounter pornographic materials before age 12, often at home. The lack of proper guidance can lead to inappropriate behaviors, like those described by West, as children attempt to mimic what they see without understanding the implications.
In the 1980s, when West was a child, access to magazines like Playboy was common, but the psychological impact of such content on children was rarely discussed. Today, with the internet, exposure to explicit materials is even easier, making West’s message relevant to contemporary debates. Organizations like the National Center on Sexual Exploitation advocate for stricter regulation of access to pornography, especially to protect minors.
West’s song, by addressing this topic, contributes to a necessary conversation about how society handles early sexualization. His story, though personal, resonates with the experiences of millions who faced similar situations, highlighting the need for education and support for children exposed to inappropriate content.
Kanye West and mental health in the music industry
Mental health has been a recurring theme in Kanye West’s career, as he has openly discussed his bipolar disorder diagnosis and struggles with depression. In “Cousins,” he seems to use music as a form of therapy, processing traumas he has carried for decades. This approach is common among artists, who often turn pain into creative expression, but West’s case is unique due to its scale and visibility.
The music industry, known for its constant pressure and public exposure, can exacerbate mental health issues. In recent years, artists like Billie Eilish, Kid Cudi, and Demi Lovato have also shared their struggles, helping to reduce the stigma around the topic. West’s openness, though controversial, contributes to this trend, showing that even successful figures face deep vulnerabilities.
However, the way West addresses these issues, often impulsively and without filters, raises questions about the impact on his health and public perception. The deletion of the tweet suggests an attempt to mitigate damage, but it also reflects the challenge of balancing artistic expression with public responsibility.
Kanye West’s legacy and the future of ‘Cousins’
Kanye West is a figure who transcends music, influencing fashion, culture, and politics. His albums, like Yeezus (2013) and Donda (2021), are considered hip-hop landmarks, while his Yeezy brand revolutionized the footwear industry. However, his personal life and public statements often overshadow his artistic achievements, creating a complex narrative of genius and controversy.
The song “Cousins” has the potential to be a turning point in his career, depending on how it is received. If well-executed, the track could be seen as a masterpiece of vulnerability, comparable to songs like “Runaway” or “Jesus Walks.” On the other hand, its explicit content and the connection to his cousin’s crime could alienate listeners and reinforce criticism of his provocative tendencies.
The future of the song will depend on how West and his team manage its release and public perception.
