Who is Dave Blunts? The ghostwriter rapper behind Kanye West’s new album

American rap icon Kanye West, who now goes by the name Ye, has once again upended the music world with the announcement of his twelfth solo studio album, Cuck. But this time, it’s not just the album title or provocative themes that have sparked conversation—it’s the revelation that Ye didn’t write a single lyric on the record. Instead, all lyrical credit belongs to an emerging rapper named Dave Blunts.

Who is this 23-year-old from Utah whose pen now holds the weight of Ye’s next musical chapter? Here’s an in-depth exploration of Dave Blunts, his unconventional rise, and his creative role in shaping Cuck.

The Mysterious Rise of Dave Blunts

From Davion Blessing to Dave Blunts

Dave Blunts was born Davion Blessing in Utah, a state far removed from the usual hip-hop hotbeds like Atlanta, New York, or Los Angeles. Growing up in a region not known for rap innovation, Blunts leaned heavily on the internet to spread his work.

His stage name, like many aspects of his career, was born out of necessity and chance. In a podcast interview with No Jumper, Blunts revealed that repeated bans on his Facebook handles forced him to settle on a randomly generated alias—Dave Blunts. The name stuck, and so began his slow-burning career in underground rap.

Early Struggles in the Music Scene

Blunts began releasing music on social media in 2018. For nearly five years, he remained relatively unknown, struggling to carve out a fan base. He faced numerous obstacles—financial limitations, health issues, and a lack of mainstream connections. At one point, he admitted to nearly quitting music altogether.

Despite the setbacks, he continued creating, often posting unfiltered, vulnerable content that eventually resonated with niche internet communities. His authenticity, unusual stage presence, and confrontational style made him a magnet for virality—albeit not always in a flattering light.

Going Viral: A Defining Moment

The Juice WRLD Memorial Concert Incident

Blunts gained widespread attention following a performance at a memorial concert for the late rapper Juice WRLD. During his set, he performed while using an oxygen tank, sparking concern and curiosity. Videos of the performance quickly went viral, amassing millions of views across platforms like TikTok and X (formerly Twitter).

In addition to the striking imagery, the performance made waves for another reason—his public callout of rapper Snoop Dogg. The two had been engaged in a heated online exchange, with Snoop mocking Blunts’ weight. In response, Blunts leveraged the viral attention to paint himself as a misunderstood underdog—a narrative that quickly gained traction.

The Role of Health in His Public Image

Dave Blunts’ health has been a recurring topic in both media coverage and his music. At around 270 kilograms (nearly 600 pounds), he has been open about experiencing heart failure and multiple hospitalizations. The oxygen tank wasn’t a prop—it was a necessity.

His openness about his physical condition has earned him both criticism and admiration. Some fans appreciate the raw honesty, while others have voiced concern for his long-term health. Regardless, his appearance and vulnerability have become inseparable from his brand identity.

Breakthrough Success and First Studio Album

Signing with “Listen to the Kids”

Following his rise on TikTok, particularly with the track The Cup, Blunts caught the attention of industry insiders, including rapper Lil Yachty, who publicly endorsed the song. This sudden visibility led to a record deal with Los Angeles-based label Listen to the Kids.

This partnership led to the production of his first full-length studio album titled Well Dude Here’s My Thing. The album fused internet culture, aggressive lyrical content, and confessional themes into a sound uniquely his own. It didn’t chart nationally, but it solidified Blunts’ position as a distinctive voice in the rap world.

Follow-Up Albums and Increasing Fame

By December 2024, Blunts confirmed he was working on his third album. Initially titled Exactly So Shut Up, it was eventually released as You Can’t Say That—an apt title for an artist who seems determined to challenge social norms and hip-hop conventions.

Each of his albums features moments of brilliance, cringe, provocation, and raw storytelling, keeping fans and critics alike deeply divided yet fascinated.

The Kanye Connection

The Deleted X Video That Changed Everything

Speculation around Ye’s new album Cuck began to intensify in early 2025, particularly after a now-deleted video surfaced on X. In the video, Dave Blunts casually claimed he wrote every song on the album.

Rather than deny or downplay the claim, Ye responded directly, confirming it with the statement:
“This is true. We would talk for hours. Then he’d write three songs in a day.”

That interaction alone set social media ablaze. Fans and critics began piecing together clues about the collaboration, which, until then, had been kept tightly under wraps.

From Ghostwriter to Credited Lyricist

In an industry where ghostwriting is often a whispered rumor rather than a public announcement, Ye’s transparency shocked the community. Not only did he admit to not writing the lyrics himself—he openly praised Blunts for his contributions.

Although the tracklist, cover art, and official release date for Cuck remain unannounced, insiders suggest the lyrics are among Ye’s most abrasive and controversial yet. If true, it underscores the boldness and uncompromising nature of Blunts’ pen.

What Makes Dave Blunts a Unique Lyricist?

Writing Style and Themes

Blunts’ lyrical approach is unapologetically raw, bordering on offensive, and deliberately provocative. He tackles topics like obesity, depression, death, social hypocrisy, and internet fame with a kind of blunt-force trauma few other rappers dare emulate.

His writing lacks polish in the traditional sense, but it thrives on unpredictability and emotional truth. For an artist like Ye—who has increasingly veered toward the avant-garde—Blunts’ chaotic energy feels like a perfect creative match.

Influence of Internet and Meme Culture

Blunts’ sensibilities are deeply rooted in internet culture. From meme references to absurdist humor and Gen Z nihilism, his lyrics often feel like digital fever dreams. It’s this chaotic honesty that likely appealed to Ye, who has long embraced unconventional collaborators.

Touring and Health Updates

Current Tour Schedule

Despite recurring health issues, Blunts embarked on a national tour in April 2025. The tour started in Phoenix, Arizona, and is set to conclude on May 23, 2025, in Santa Ana, California.

The tour is modest in size but has drawn large, curious crowds eager to see the enigmatic rapper perform live. Some shows have sparked headlines for unpredictable onstage antics and health scares, but overall, the tour is a success and an emotional milestone for Blunts.

Ongoing Health Struggles

Blunts continues to battle serious health issues. He remains candid with his audience about his physical condition, often using live shows and social media to update fans. Recent posts suggest he’s making efforts to lose weight and improve his cardiovascular health.

Some insiders have speculated that Ye has offered to support Blunts financially in accessing advanced medical care, although this remains unconfirmed.

The Future of Dave Blunts

Continued Collaboration with Ye?

The music industry is buzzing with rumors about whether Cuck will be the beginning of a long-term partnership between Ye and Blunts. Given their reported creative synergy and Ye’s vocal praise, it’s possible that future projects will also bear Blunts’ lyrical signature.

Whether as a ghostwriter, credited co-writer, or even featured artist, Dave Blunts has clearly carved out a seat at one of hip-hop’s most exclusive tables.

Growing Influence in Hip-Hop

Blunts’ story is both unconventional and emblematic of a new generation of artists who sidestep the industry’s traditional pathways. He didn’t rise through label showcases or talent scouts—he built a brand through social media, controversy, and unfiltered expression.

His journey from obscure internet rapper to Kanye West’s ghostwriter is a case study in how virality, vulnerability, and raw talent can disrupt the mainstream.

Conclusion

Dave Blunts is more than a viral sensation or an internet curiosity—he’s a creative force reshaping how rap is written, performed, and perceived. From his early struggles in Utah to co-writing one of Ye’s most anticipated albums, Blunts’ story is a testament to perseverance, authenticity, and the unpredictable power of the digital age.

As Cuck prepares to make its debut, all eyes are on the man behind the pen. Whether you’re a fan, a skeptic, or simply curious, one thing is clear—Dave Blunts is no longer a footnote in hip-hop. He’s a headline.

Maximilian Hargreave

Maximilian Hargreave

Maximilian Hargreave is a Skincare Specialist dedicated to helping individuals achieve healthy and radiant skin. With expertise in skincare treatments and personalized routines, Maximilian provides trusted advice and solutions tailored to every skin type.

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