Kanye West covered his face during an incognito outing in Beverly Hills without his wife Bianca Censori – after announcing his retirement from ‘professional music’ because he ‘didn’t know what else to do’

Following Kanye West’s suggestion on Wednesday that he is prepared to leave the music business, the Vultures began to circle.

The innovative musician was instrumental in redefining hip-hop in the 2000s and 2010s, but his reputation has been damaged by claims of antisemitism and his outspoken endorsement of divisive former US President Donald Trump.

Later this year, West, 47, is anticipated to release Vultures 2, the second of his three albums with Ty Dolla Sign.

However, a recently leaked text exchange purporting to be between West and fellow rapper Rich The Kid says he’s prepared to call it quits on his two decades in the music business. 

Social media users’ reactions to the news of West’s likely retirement from the public eye were predictably divided: some admirers begged him to keep going, while others expressed satisfaction at the prospect of West’s retirement.