Kanye West first announced his ‘bible-themed’ opera early last week, but it turned out to be much less than what paying fans were expecting.
West held an unexpected opera at the Los Angeles Hollywood Bowl on Sunday, November 24th.
West’s first opera named ‘Nebuchadnezzar’, and was based on a biblical tale from the Book of Daniel. The show was undoubtedly motivated by the recent change in West’s personal faith.
On the stage were hundreds of dancers, singers, and performers. Cast as the main character was Mobama rapper, Sheck Wes. He was dressed in a shining purple robe that set himself apart from the rest of the cast who were draped in more muted tones.
Prior to the show, fans had to wait just over two hours for it to begin. Many did not end up sticking around for the whole time to see West’s ensemble take the stage.
The show was originally expected to have two and a half jam-packed hours of beautiful harmony, but to most, it sounded more like a loud mumbling and fans weren’t able to appreciate the distinct gospel voices of the singers on stage. The production altogether also only lasted for a mere 50 minutes.
The reaction of those who stuck around despite the delay was quite mixed. Avid West fans were accepting and appreciative of the show that he put on while others felt that it was a waste of time.
Man love the opera or hate it. Literally no one in Hip Hop is doing art like this. Absolutely no one. This is why we love Kanye in the first place. This ain’t my cup of tea but wow this is impressive. #Nebuchadnezzar
— Oscar (@oscararriaga76) November 25, 2019
This is bad!!!! Beautiful voices are not enough to save it. And the performance started more than 2 hours late. Also, why are they singing in Latin, a language which didn’t exist for 700 years after Neb’s death, and that in a completely different continent? #Nebuchadnezzar #Kanye
— Vox Operae (@voxoperae) November 25, 2019
It seems that West is on a journey of a new awakening in his personal and career life. If anyone is tired of his new-found path, then it may be too late to complain. West has already announced Jesus is King II, which will be produced by legendary rapper, Dr. Dre.
