Photo Credit: David Lezcano
Following the severing of his relationship with Adidas, several companies are continuing damage control. Kanye West’s antisemitic statements and the fallout continues.
“Def Jam’s relationship with Ye as a recording artist, Def Jam’s partnership with the GOOD Music label venture and Ye’s merchandise agreement with Bravado all ended in 2021,” says a Universal Music Group spokesperson. “There is no place for antisemitism in our society. We are deeply committed to combating antisemitism and every other form of prejudice.”
Following a contentious relationship with clothing company Gap Inc., the company has also released an official statement condemning Kanye’s words.
“In September, GAP announced ending its Yeezy GAP partnership. Our former partner’s recent remarks and behavior further underscore why. We are taking immediate steps to remove Yeezy GAP product from our stores and we have shut down YeezyGap.com,” the statement reads.
“Antisemitism, racism, and hate in any form are inexcusable and not tolerated in accordance with our values. On behalf of our customers, employees, and shareholders, we are partnering with organizations that combat hate and discrimination.”
Both Adidas and Foot Locker have committed to stopping the sale of Yeezy products.
Adidas’ statement says, “After a thorough review, the company has taken the decision to terminate the partnership with Ye immediately, end production of Yeezy branded products, and stop all payments to Ye and his companies. Adidas will stop the Adidas Yeezy business with immediate effect.”
Foot Locker joined in with a statement saying the company “Does not tolerate any form of antisemitism, or hateful and discriminatory behavior. While we remain a partner with Adidas and carry a wide assortment of their collections – we will not be supporting any future Yeezy product drops.”
Following the end of his Adidas partnership, Forbes estimates Kanye West lost around $400 million in net worth. Forbes valued the Adidas deal as adding $1.5 billion to the rapper’s net worth.