Ye released *BULLY* through his own YZY imprint partnered with Gamma, an independent distributor founded in 2023 by ex-Apple Music execs. No major label (UMG, Sony, Warner) involved—no traditional contract, no radio push, no big-label marketing. He handled creative control, pre-orders, merch, and direct-to-fan sales himself, with Gamma just handling streaming/distribution logistics. That's about as independent as it gets in 2026.
After years of lawsuits and controversy, it appears there is still very much an audience for Ye—or, at least, his music, as 'Bully' opened at Number Two on the album charts https://t.co/3gAa1ZUZY7
Jay-Z did what hip hip was doing well, KanYe changed Jay-Z's sound, then he defeated gangsta rap, then he invented Drake, Travis et al on 808s then he made rap orchestral then he made it industrial then he took rap into the streaming era with Pablo then he made it gospel
In 2015, Ye headlined Glastonbury despite 135,000 signatures demanding his removal. He walked onto the Pyramid Stage alone, opened with “Cold,” and performed anyway 🐐.
An African father, who worked tirelessly in a mine, saved every penny he earned and surprised his children by buying them a television.
He captured their reaction on video as they watched it for the first time their eyes wide open, unblinking, filled with pure wonder and overwhelming joy ❤️