Kanye West Sets the Record Straight, ‘Next Nelson Mandela’ Statement False

Although platinum-selling rapper Kanye West is known for his outspoken nature and esteemed arrogance, there’s one particular case where he’s not owning it, because he didn’t say it.

For those who missed it, West landed in hot water over an alleged comment that left fans appalled by what was said. The comment came shortly after the death of prominent South African politician, Nelson Mandela. While millions around the world mourned the significant loss, West was accused of having a different perspective.

The Daily Currant published a column on Friday that chronicled West’s recent interview with Chicago radio station WGCI. During the interview in question, the Currant claims that West was asked, in so many words, who he felt could be a substantial replacement for someone of Mandela’s leadership caliber.

The publication stated that West responded by saying that he would be the ‘next Nelson Mandela’. While that one statement in particular was enough to send the media into a frenzy, it only got worse as the statement went on.

Here’s the full quote:

“I am the next Nelson Mandela,” West responded. “I’m only 36 years old, and when I look at everything I’ve accomplished, it’s the only comparison that makes any sense. By the time I’m 95, I’m going to be a bigger hero than he ever was,” said West.

“Nelson Mandela did a lot of good work don’t get me wrong. But I think I’m on track to do something even bigger. I liberate minds with my music. That’s more important than liberating a few people from apartheid or whatever. Not to say Mandela wasn’t for real. I have mad respect. I just think we need to keep things in perspective here. Anyone can be replaced. And I think I’m well on my way towards being the next great black leader. I’m already worshiped around the world. And there’s more to come.”

In light of Mandela’s death, West suffered a severe level of backlash, as the alleged comments were deemed highly disrespectful, as if he had absolutely no regard for Mandela’s legacy. Fans also expressed a high level of disdain for the New Slaves rapper on Twitter.

So, West decided to speak out and refute the claims in an effort to set the record straight. The “Yeezus” rapper took to Twitter to silence all of the chatter and negative flack he’s been receiving in light of the false statement. It’s definitely safe to say he wasn’t a happy camper.

According to the SFGate, the entire interview was actually fake. There was also no actual audio of the alleged interview to authenticate the statement. So, although West is known for outlandish, over-the-top statements, the only typical ‘Kanye West’ action in this particular matter was the Twitter rant to clear it all up.