Yesterday, controversial MC Kanye West released his proposed album cover for his upcoming fifth LP. His album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy has been heavily talked about; from the moving portrait of “Power”, the lengthly and unique album title, the red suited performances, and now the album cover. The album cover features a painting by George Condo (who also provided both the “Power” and “Runaway” single artwork), depicting Kanye West holding a brewsky getting rode by a topless “phoenix” with no arms and a polka-dotted tail.

The album cover was banned in the United States by Wal-Mart. After releasing the artwork to his fans via Twitter, Kanye West had this to say about his artwork being banned:

“In the 70s album covers had actual nudity… It’s so funny that people forget that… Everything has been so commercialized now.”
“In all honesty … I really don’t be thinking about Wal-Mart when I make my music or album covers #Kanyeshrug! ”
“So Nirvana can have a naked human being on they cover but I can’t have a PAINTING of a monster with no arms and a polka dot tail and wings”

While Wal-Mart and other outlets may not have agreed with Ye’s artistic expression, he did have this to say about the reception:

“I know that cover just blew yall minds … I wish yall could see how hard I’m smiling right now!!!”

Kanye’s My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy will be in stores November 22nd!