The American president previously called the rapper a "jackass" for interrupting Taylor Swift's acceptance speech at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards.
In a profile on West for The Atlantic, Obama insisted that he likes West in spite of his remarks.
"I like Kanye," he said. "He's a Chicago guy. Smart. He's very talented."
"He is a jackass," Obama continued. "But he's talented."
West is rumoured to be dating Kim Kardashian, who he reportedly considers to be "his Beyoncé".
> Barack Obama Kanye 'jackass' audio leaks
Watch the video for Kanye West's 'Power' below:
