Kid Cudi is responding to criticism surrounding his decision to reunite with Ye onstage during the rapper’s Chicago homecoming concert. Cudi joined Ye at Soldier Field on Sept. 4, marking the first time the two longtime collaborators had performed together publicly in years.
Cudi appeared near the end of Ye’s three-hour set and performed “Father Stretch My Hands, Pt. 1,” “Ghost Town” and “Pursuit of Happiness (Nightmare).” The appearance was one of several high-profile reunions during Ye’s second Chicago show, which also featured Big Sean, Common, Travis Scott, Don Toliver, Young Thug, Chief Keef, Rick Ross, Twista and other guests.
Following the performance, Cudi faced criticism from some fans and commentators who questioned his decision to publicly support Ye after the rapper’s past antisemitic statements and other controversial behavior. New York radio personality Peter Rosenberg criticized the broader wave of artists and fans embracing Ye during his Chicago performances, saying he was disappointed by people supporting the rapper so soon after his past conduct.
Cudi responded directly to Rosenberg on social media on Sept. 5, explaining that his relationship with Ye was different from that of outside observers. He described Ye as his “brother” and pointed to nearly two decades of friendship and musical collaboration between them. Cudi also said he had personally held Ye accountable during their previous conflicts and believed the apology Ye issued was sincere.
Cudi further said that his recent conversations with Ye reminded him of the relationship they had when Cudi first signed with G.O.O.D. Music, adding that he believed Ye was doing better after years of mental health struggles. He said he believed people deserved grace within family relationships while acknowledging that those outside the relationship could have a different view of the situation.
The reunion comes after years of tension between the two artists. Their relationship deteriorated publicly in the early 2020s, with Cudi distancing himself from Ye following disputes surrounding Ye’s comments and Cudi’s friendship with Pete Davidson. Cudi had previously said in 2022 that it would take a major change for the two to become friends again.
Ye issued an apology in January 2026 addressing his previous antisemitic statements and behavior, including a public statement acknowledging the consequences of his actions and committing to accountability and treatment. Cudi referenced that apology when explaining why he believes their relationship could be rebuilt.
After the Chicago performance, Cudi also posted about the reunion, calling the night another memorable experience with his longtime collaborator and referring to Ye as his “big bro.” The two had previously collaborated extensively, including on their 2018 joint project Kids See Ghosts, and their Soldier Field appearance represented their return to the stage together after years apart.
The Chicago reunion has continued to generate discussion as Ye’s two-night homecoming run brought together artists from different periods of his career, with Cudi’s appearance becoming one of the most closely discussed moments following the concerts.
