On Saturday, March 15, Puff Daddy shared a new song titled "Lonely Roads Still Go to Sunshine" on the social media platform X, featuring an unexpected collaboration with King Combs, North West, and Jasmine Williams. Jasmine Williams is a newly signed Yeezy artist from Chicago, and the song marks her debut appearance. The release has quickly garnered attention due to the inclusion of North West and the ongoing legal issues surrounding Puff Daddy.
Puff Daddy, currently incarcerated while awaiting trial for alleged federal sex crimes, managed to share the song despite being denied bail. He was indicted in September 2024 on charges that include sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, with his trial slated to commence in May. The song opens with a voice recording of a conversation between Puff Daddy and Kanye West, who has been vocal in defending Puff Daddy and advocating for his release from prison. Kanye West has expressed belief that Puff Daddy should be set free.
The participation of North West, daughter of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, in the song has sparked discussions. Kim Kardashian had previously attempted to prevent the release of the track. Kardashian and West had an agreement to trademark their children's names at birth. This agreement has evidently been a point of contention between them.
"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," said Kim Kardashian.
Kanye West has faced scrutiny in the past for controversial social media activity, including a post referencing Elon Musk's one-armed salute. Musk responded to the post by describing it as part of a "sooo tired" narrative of comparing people to Hitler. This back-and-forth highlights West's penchant for provocative online behavior.
The song's release also shines a light on Jasmine Williams, an emerging artist from Chicago who is making her mark under the Yeezy label. Her involvement in the track alongside established names such as Puff Daddy and King Combs signals a promising start to her career.