Kanye West doubles down on being called Ye as he shut downs Instagram account

Kanye West has doubled down on his name change and vowed to switch up his social media accounts.

The controversial rapper, 46, filed a petition to change his name to Ye in August 2021 citing “personal reasons”. A Los Angeles judge then approved the request in October that year, legally changing his name from Kanye Omari West to Ye, with no middle or last name.

Now, Ye has taken to Instagram to announce he is closing his Kanye West account and hit out at those trying to “force” him to use his old name. In a screenshot of a message sent to Justin LaBoy, Ye said: “I’m closing my Kanye West instagram account.

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Kanye West became Ye in 2021
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Kanye West/Instagram)

He wants to be recognised by his new name
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Getty Images for Fast Company)

“My name is Ye. No brand or numbers gonna force me to call myself what they want me to still be.” In the caption, he added: “Name being changed to Ye on insta shortly.”

In a follow-up post, Ye shared a message he received from Justin. It read: “Instagram has approved. They just got into the office and called immediately. Waiting on info they need to make it happen today.”

It’s unclear if the Kanye West Instagram account will simply be renamed, or if he will create a whole new account. Fans were supportive of the announcement, with one person writing: “I hope you get what you want brother! You deserve it!”

The Instagram change is believed to be getting pushed through today
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AFP via Getty Images)

Another fan insisted: “ig knows how important ye is,” while someone else commented: “Periodt!!! Don’t play w him.” Another fan added: “You inspire me.”

The Instagram announcement comes after Ye called on his fans to boycott Adidas. He claimed the company is “selling fake Yeezys” and he “never made these colour ways”. Kanye further claimed that Adidas is suing him, likely referring to a 2023 lawsuit filed against the rapper which attempted to freeze $75million (£59.2million) of Yeezy funds.

While Adidas dropped the suit, the two parties are believed to still be moving forward in private arbitration. Ye also called celebrities hypocrites for looking the other way. “All these celebrities and the public will stand against a T-shirt or the colour of my hat. But when yall see me have my children hidden from me or see an actual Fortune 500 company r*pe one of your heroes in real life don’t nobody say nothing or do nothing,” he claimed.