Sunday, September 13, MTV aired the annual Video Music Awards. During the show, country music star, Taylor Swift, won the VMA for best female video of the year.
While she was gushingly thanking everyone, artist Kanye West stormed the stage, asked for the mic, and proclaimed:
"Taylor, I'm really happy for you, and I'm gonna let you finish, but Beyonce had one of the best videos of all time!"
He then handed the mic back to a stunned and defeated looking Taylor Swift. Beyonce, who was also nominated in the best female video category, looked mortified. She did not need that kind of attention, nor does she seem like the type of person that would ever want it.
Beyonce Acts with Elegance, while Kanye Acts Belligerent
What was learned from Kanye’s outburst? For one, Kanye’s outburst showed that Beyonce is an exemplary person. Towards the end of the show, Beyonce was on stage to accept a different award and she asked Taylor Swift to join her on stage so that Taylor could have her moment.
Taylor appeared pleasantly shocked and thanked Beyonce for being so gracious. Another learning from Kanye’s outburst is that just because one is a celebrity, does not mean he should be given a “free pass” to be rude. Kanye is outspoken, but ruining another entertainer’s moment is taking it too far.
Kanye’s mother recently passed away, which is undoubtedly a painful experience, however this should not be used as an excuse. Being a celebrity means being constantly viewed under a microscope. This can be a challenging way to live, especially when one is going through a hard time. If Kanye were to act quietly, focus on his music and talent (of which he has an abundance), then he would be able to mourn in peace.
Outbursts, such as the one at the VMA’s, simply portray Kanye as an egotistical celebrity who says and does whatever he wants, despite who he might offend. Kanye is a smart and talented artist and a potential role model; therefore, he needs to think before he acts.
Race is Not the Answer
The whole Kanye West / Taylor Swift episode has once again brought to light the fact that America seems fixated with race. For example, just a few weeks ago, Conservative talk show host, Glenn Beck called President Obama a racist. Also, music fans writing on blogs and entertainment sites have been quick to label Kanye a racist.
It is unfortunate that so many people want to bring up race in discussing a moment that had nothing to do with race. Kanye’s ridiculous behavior at Sunday’s Video Music Awards does not prove that he is a racist; it proves that he is immature and has a big ego.
Kanye is a man who is proud of his race and stands up for his race when he sees atrocities that have occurred. There is nothing wrong with doing this and it is unfortunate that if someone is proud of his race, then he is also labeled a racist. Being proud of one’s race, does not a racist make.
Kanye’s Apology
After the VMA incident, many celebrities were quick to criticize Kanye and stand up for Taylor Swift. Former American Idol, Kelly Clarkson, wrote an adamant rant to Kanye on her blog. She stated:
“I've seen you do some pretty s----- things, but you just keep amazing me with your tactless, ass--- ways. .... It's absolutely fascinating how much I don't like you. I like everyone,”
It seems that Kanye has taken these words, as well as the criticism of others to heart. He appeared on The Jay Leno Show Monday night and acted extremely quiet and remorseful. He apologized and acted victimized. However, he is not a victim. Kanye chose his actions and if he wants to avoid awkward conversations and leg pats from Jay Leno, then he needs to think before he acts in such a hasty manner.
Time will tell if Kanye lives by his apology and stops acting without the thought of consequences. If he does this, his music and the messages he delivers through it, are what people will remember. After all, his music, instead of his arrogance, should be his legacy.
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