Kanye West drops controversial new song featuring daughter North and Sean 'Diddy' combs

Kanye West has once again made headlines with the release of a new song, "Lonely Roads Still Go to Sunshine," featuring his 11-year-old daughter North West and music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs. The track, which West shared on X (formerly Twitter) on March 15, also includes contributions from Combs’ 26-year-old son, King, and musician Jasmine Williams, a rising artist from Chicago signed under West’s Yeezy label.

The song opens with a voice recording of what appears to be a phone conversation between West, 47, and Combs, 55. In the heartfelt exchange, Combs expresses gratitude to West, saying, "I wanna just thank you so much for just taking care of my kids, man. Ain’t nobody reach out to them, ain’t nobody call them." West responds, "Absolutely, I love you so much, man. You raised me. Even when I ain’t know you, know what I’m saying?"

North, who has occasionally showcased her musical abilities in the past, delivers a striking verse in the song, rapping, "When you see me shining, then you see the light."

The song’s release has sparked controversy, particularly with West’s ex-wife, Kim Kardashian. According to TMZ, Kardashian attempted to block the song by trademarking their eldest daughter’s name. West later shared now-deleted screenshots of a text exchange in which Kardashian reportedly reminded him that they had previously agreed to trademark their children's names at birth to prevent unauthorized usage.

In the heated conversation, West accused Kardashian of trying to control their daughter’s involvement in music. "I’m never speaking with you again," he allegedly texted her. In response, Kardashian clarified, "I asked you at the time if I can trademark her name. You said yes. When she’s 18, it goes to her. So stop. I sent paperwork over so she wouldn’t be in the Diddy song to protect her. One person has to trademark!" West, in turn, issued a stark warning: "Amend it or I’m going to war. And neither of us will recover from the public fallout. You’re going to have to kill me."

The track’s release is further complicated by Combs' legal troubles. The music producer is currently in jail, awaiting trial for alleged federal sex crimes, including charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. He pleaded not guilty to all charges in September 2024 and has been denied bail. West has publicly defended Combs, claiming that authorities are "trying to make an example out of Puff."

West's statements have reignited backlash over his history of making inflammatory and anti-Semitic remarks. His previous controversial social media activity led to severe professional consequences, including being dropped by his talent agency and having his clothing website shut down by Shopify after attempting to sell T-shirts featuring swastikas.

This latest dispute adds another layer to West and Kardashian’s ongoing co-parenting tensions. An insider previously told PEOPLE that Kardashian is "pretty much a single mom" to their four children, as West is "not around very much."

Despite the controversy, "Lonely Roads Still Go to Sunshine" has already generated significant buzz, with fans divided over its artistic merits and ethical implications. As West continues to navigate personal and professional turmoil, the song serves as yet another example of his unfiltered approach to music and public life.