This time it's for real.
Editor's note: this story has been updated with a confirmation of the release date and details on a listening party.
Kanye West has set a new release date for his delayed Jesus is King album. After several previous release dates for the gospel-influenced album came and went, it appears that the album will drop this Friday (Oct. 25), coinciding with the release of the accompanying documentary of the same name in Imax theaters around the world. In an early morning tweet on Monday (Oct. 21), 'Ye posted a blue vinyl copy of the album with the title and release date in the message; a spokesperson for West confirmed on Tuesday (Oct. 22) that Jesus is King is due out on Friday and that the rapper will premiere both the album and the accompanying IMAX film on Wednesday (Oct. 23) at a listening session at the Forum in Los Angeles.
Kim Kardashian West originally said Jesus was rising on Sept. 27, a date that was then pushed back two days, though no music was ever released. Fans were disappointed when West then held one of his Sunday Services and hosted several listening parties the following weekend without releasing the album, despite a spate of performances and appearances in support of the disc.
In a trailer for the film that dropped Saturday (Oct. 19), the rapper says, "We're here to spread the gospel. I'm not here for your entertainment." Following a passage from the Bible (Mark 1:15), West adds, "I'm an evangelist, so my music, my films, every conversation, every room I go in, we're here to save souls, save you from eternal damnation."
Directed by Nick Knight, the film will feature West's ongoing Sunday Service series that takes place in Roden Crater, an Arizona-based art installation by light and space artist James Turrell. Jesus Is King will feature 13 gospel songs arranged by West and performed by his Sunday Service choir, as well as new music from his upcoming album of the same title. Click here for information on IMAX theaters, showtimes and tickets.
Tickets for the Jesus is King Album & Film Experience screening will be free to the public on a first come, first served basis on Wednesday morning at 10 a.m. PDT here. Fans can secure first access to tickets by pre-ordering the album here. Jesus is King blue vinyl, CD and downloads can be pre-ordered at West's online store.
Watch the film trailer below.
