Though the North American leg of his Yeezus Tour has ended, it’s clear that Kanye West is still itching to perform.
‘Ye appeared on last night’s episode of Late Night With Seth Meyers to deliver an unexpected medley of singles, ranging from “Jesus Walks” to “Black Skinhead.” He played one song from each of his solo LPs, plus a hook from Cruel Summer’s “Mercy.” It was a much-needed jump start for Meyers’ new show, which has appeared flat through two episodes.
“It’s fun to be able to express something you created,” West said about his nationwide run that finished Sunday in New York. “You feel like a new artist again.”
That urgency was certainly on display Tuesday night. West bobbed and weaved through the thundering bass of “Mercy,” displayed impressive tonal versatility on “Stronger” and tossed a mic stand at the end of “Black Skinhead.” Flashing strobe lights and silhouettes accompanied the five-minute performance, which also included “Touch the Sky,” “Heartless” and “All of the Lights.” It served as a healthy reminder of what we can expect at Bonnaroo this summer.
During a sit-down with Meyers, West touched on his aspirations in the fashion industry and his anticipated change in subject matter now that he’s a father. “I give you sonic paintings. I have synesthesia…I can see sound. When I do fashion, I want to do sculptures,” he said. “But as a celebrity, people expect you to do a certain thing. Your shoe starts to get a little tight, and you do everything you can to get a bigger shoe to walk further and run faster…The walls that Michael Jackson and Jay Z broke down for you are suddenly done.”
Not everything was as heavy. Meyers threw back to an SNL skit from 2007, where West rushed on stage to interrupt a girl winning a state fair pumpkin contest. Meyers also briefly hosted Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, and bantered with former SNL cast member Fred Armisen.
Peep ‘Ye’s whole performance here.
