YouTube's Head of Global Music Lyor Cohen has written an open letter to Kanye West, addressing the rapper's recent antisemitic behavior and controversial actions.

The letter comes in response to West's escalating controversies, including his Super Bowl weekend advertising campaign directing users to Yeezy.com, where a t-shirt featuring a swastika was being sold. West is currently facing a lawsuit from a former employee alleging verbal abuse and citing text messages where the rapper praised Hitler.

Recent consequences of West's actions include:

• 33 & West talent agency dropping him after nine months
• Shopify removing his Yeezy.com merchandise shop
• Growing criticism from industry leaders

Cohen's letter emphasizes several key points:

• Disappointment in West's use of Nazi symbols and antisemitic rhetoric
• The responsibility that comes with West's influence
• The historical collaboration between Jewish and Black communities in music
• A call for West to use his platform more constructively

The full letter concludes with a plea for reflection and understanding, urging West to recognize the impact of his words on Jewish communities and those who oppose hate.

Cohen, who previously worked with West as CEO of Def Jam Recordings, maintains a significant position in the music industry as YouTube's Head of Global Music, making his statement particularly noteworthy within the industry context.

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