Kanye & Ty Dolla $ign's Chicago livestream of "Vultures": Glitch, controversy, disappointed Fans

Balenciaga : Outside Arrivals - Paris Fashion Week - Womenswear Spring/Summer 2023
Balenciaga : Outside Arrivals - Paris Fashion Week - Womenswear Spring/Summer 2023 / Anthony Ghnassia/GettyImages
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Ye and Ty Dolla $ign recently treated fans to an exclusive sneak peek at their highly anticipated joint project, 'Vultures,' during the 'Vultures Listening Experience' held in Chicago. Despite the event's electrifying atmosphere and promises of a memorable night, several unexpected twists left attendees and virtual viewers in shock and disappointment. Here are the key highlights from the event that stirred conversations and controversy across the music world:

6 key highlights: Ye & Ty Dolla $ign’s ‘Vultures listening experience’ in Chicago

1. Eager anticipation: Enthusiastic fans thronged the United Center, brimming with excitement for an exclusive preview of the much-anticipated album. Despite numerous shifts in the release dates, the air buzzed with fervent anticipation, heightening the sense of expectation.

2. Sought-after affair: The 'Vultures Listening Experience,' hailed as the ultimate album release celebration, witnessed a swift sell-out within mere hours. Fans clamored to secure their coveted tickets, eager to partake in what promised to be a historic occasion.

3. Visual splendor: Attendees didn't just anticipate music; they hungered for a visual extravaganza. True to form, Kanye West  delivered a mesmerizing spectacle, enveloping the stage in a mystical fog punctuated by fluttering white flags adorned with the Vultures emblem, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

4. Grand arrival by Chance the Rapper: Local luminary Chance the Rapper graced the event with a grand entrance, acknowledging the adoration of his fans with a wave. His presence amplified the evening's energy, adding an extra layer of excitement and hometown pride.

5. Exclusive Merchandise:  Within the venue's confines, enthusiasts indulged in the opportunity to procure official Vultures merchandise, ranging from sleek black tees to cozy white sweatpants and shorts adorned with the album's emblematic logo, cementing their connection to the musical phenomenon.

6. A Long-Awaited Unveiling: Despite the electrifying atmosphere, the elusive album remained just out of reach. Initially slated for release on December 15, then December 31, and subsequently January 12, the collaborative masterpiece between the two artists continued to elude eager fans, leaving them hungering for more.

The impending release of the Vultures album holds the promise of a transcendent collaboration, melding the unique talents of Ye and Ty Dolla $ign into a harmonious symphony that is sure to captivate audiences, igniting their passion for musical innovation.

Live stream interruption: Kanye West’s ‘Vultures’ album cuts out following rapper's antisemitic remark

During the live event, Veeps, the streaming service responsible for broadcasting the occasion, abruptly terminated the stream following Kanye West's performance of a controversial lyric in which he referred to himself as an "antisemite".

This lyric was part of a song that also contained derogatory references to historical figures such as Hitler, Cosby, R. Kelly, and Diddy. West's inclusion of such inflammatory content reignited criticism from both Jewish organizations and his fan base, echoing previous backlash stemming from similar antisemitic remarks made by the artist in October 2022, which he later apologized for in December 2023. 

West further underscored the challenges he faced in securing venues for his album events, citing his controversial reputation as a hindrance. He disclosed that only the United Center, located in his hometown, had agreed to host the event, prompting him to announce an additional event at UBS Arena in Elmont, NY, scheduled for Friday, February 10, 2024.

Outrage as Kanye West's 'Vultures' album fails to release on schedule, fans accuse rapper of deception

Kanye West's fans are feeling frustrated and betrayed as the rapper's highly anticipated album Vultures has failed to materialize on its scheduled release date of February 9, 2024. The album, which is a collaboration with singer Ty Dolla Sign, was supposed to be the first of a three-part series, with the other two volumes slated for March and April. 

However, despite multiple listening events, teasers, and trailers, the album has not been uploaded to any streaming platforms or made available for purchase. Fans have taken to social media to express their anger and disappointment, accusing West of lying to them again and playing with their emotions.

Some have even compared the situation to the infamous delays and controversies that surrounded West's previous album Donda, which was released in 2021 after several postponements and revisions. West has not offered any explanation or apology for the missing album, leaving his loyal supporters in the dark and wondering if Vultures will ever see the light of day. 

As fans await clarity and closure, the saga surrounding Kanye West's 'Vultures' album underscores the complexities and challenges inherent in the intersection of art, celebrity, and public perception. Whether 'Vultures' will eventually soar to new heights or remain grounded in controversy remains to be seen, leaving fans on the edge of anticipation and uncertainty.

Check out a selection of the music videos unveiled from the album.

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