Kanye West

Kanye West (born June 8, 1977) is an American rap artist and hip hop producer. He released his debut album The College Dropout in 2004, his second album Late Registration in 2005, and his third album Graduation in 2007. His first three albums have received numerous awards (including nine Grammys), critical acclaim, and commercial success. West also runs his own record label GOOD Music.

West's parents divorced when he was three years old, and he and his mother moved to Chicago, Illinois. He enrolled at Chicago State University but later dropped out to continue pursuing his music career. He later gained fame by producing hit singles for musical artists including Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, and Janet Jackson.

Some controversy has also surrounded West, such as an incident during a live telecast of a benefit concert for Hurricane Katrina relief, when he deviated from the script and told the audience, "George Bush doesn't care about black people."

On October 23, 2002, West was involved in a near fatal car crash while driving home from the recording studio. The crash provided inspiration for West's first single, "Through the Wire." West's faith is clear in many of his songs, such as "Jesus Walks," which became a major at his benefit performances, such as the Live 8 concert. These songs were featured on West's debut album, The College Dropout, which was released on Roc-A-Fella Records in February 2004.

On August 30, 2005, West released his second album Late Registrationwhich got good reviews and received critical acclaim.

On September 11 2007 he released his third album, Graduation. Like his previous albums, West's Graduation contained extensive sampling of music by eclectic and often obscure artists. The album has been certified double platinum. Guest appearances included T-Pain, Mos Def, & Lil Wayne.

West was nominated in 8 Grammy Award categories for the 50th annual Grammy Awards. He won four Grammy including Best Rap Album for Graduation and Best Rap Solo Performance for "Stronger" from Graduation.

Read more »