Kanye Omari West
Background information
Birth name	Kanye West
Born	June 8, 1977 (1977-06-08) (age 31) Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Origin	Chicago, Illinois, United States
Genre(s)	Hip hop Alternative hip hop Chicago hip hop
Occupation(s)	Producer, rapper
Instrument(s)	Vocals, percussion, piano
Years active	2000–present
Label(s)	GOOD Music, Roc-A-Fella, Def Jam
Associated acts	Child Rebel Soldier, Jay-Z, Common, John Legend, Consequence, Lupe Fiasco, Pharrell, Mos Def, Talib Kweli
Website	Official Website

Kanye Omari West (pronounced /ˈkɑnjɛj/) (born June 8, 1977)^[1] is an American rap artist and hip hop producer. Events 68 - The Roman Senate accepts emperor Galba. 536 - St Silverius becomes Pope (probable Also 1977 (album by Ash. Year 1977 ( MCMLXXVII) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays The State of Georgia ( is a state in the United States and was one of the original Thirteen Colonies that revolted against British rule The United States of America —commonly referred to as the Chicago (ʃɪˈkɑːgoʊ is the largest City by population in the state of Illinois and the American Midwest of the United States. The State of Illinois ( roughly ill-i-NOY is a state of the United States of America, the 21st to be admitted to the Union. The United States of America —commonly referred to as the A music genre is a categorical and typological construct that identifies musical sounds as belonging to a particular category and type of music that can be distinguished from other Hip hop music, also referred to as rap music, is a Music genre typically consisting of a rhythmic vocal style called rap which is accompanied with Alternative hip hop (also known as alternative rap) is a genre that is defined in greatly varying ways The Hip hop scene in Chicago Illinois has produced a distinct group of artists and styles In the Music industry, a record producer or music producer has many roles among them controlling the recording sessions coaching and guiding the musicians organizing Rapping (also known as emceeing, MCing, spitting, or just rhyming) is the Rhythmic spoken delivery of Rhymes wordplay and A musical instrument is a device constructed or modified for the purpose of making Music. Singing is the act of producing musical sounds with the voice, which is often contrasted with Speech. The piano is a Musical instrument played by means of a keyboard that produces sound by striking steel strings with Felt covered hammers In the Music industry, a record label can be a Brand and a Trademark associated with the Marketing of music recordings and Music GOOD Music is a hip hop and R&B Record label founded by music producer and rapper Kanye West. Roc-A-Fella Records is a United States record label founded by Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter. Def Jam Recordings is a United States based hip-hop Record label, owned by Universal Music Group, and operates as a part of The Island Child Rebel Soldier, shortened CRS, is a hip hop super group comprised of hip hop artists Lupe Fiasco (The Child Pharrell Shawn Corey Carter (born December 4 1969 better known as Jay-Z, is an American Rapper and former CEO of Def Jam Recordings and Roc-A-Fella Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr (born March 13 1972) better known by his Stage name Common (and previously known as Common Sense) is an John Stephens (born December 28, 1978) better known by his Stage name John Legend, is a Grammy Award winning American soul Consequence (born Dexter Raymond Mills Jr on June 14, 1977) is an American hip hop artist from Queens New York Wasalu Muhammad Jaco (born February 16 1982 better known by his Stage name Lupe Fiasco, is a Grammy -winning American rapper. Dante Terrell Smith (born December 11, 1973) better known by his stage name Mos Def, is an American MC and Actor. Talib Kweli Greene (born October 3, 1975) better known as Talib Kweli, is an American MC from Brooklyn, New Events 68 - The Roman Senate accepts emperor Galba. 536 - St Silverius becomes Pope (probable Also 1977 (album by Ash. Year 1977 ( MCMLXXVII) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays The United States of America —commonly referred to as the Rapping (also known as emceeing, MCing, spitting, or just rhyming) is the Rhythmic spoken delivery of Rhymes wordplay and Hip hop production is the creation of Hip hop music. Modern hip hop production utilizes samplers, sequencers, Drum machines, Synthesizers He released his debut album The College Dropout in 2004, his second album Late Registration in 2005, and his third album Graduation in 2007. The College Dropout is the debut album by Rapper and producer Kanye West, released February 10 2004 Late Registration is the critically acclaimed second studio album by Chicago hip hop artist Kanye West. Graduation is the third Studio album by Rapper Kanye West, released on September 11 2007 on Roc-A-Fella Records. His first three albums have received numerous awards (including nine Grammys),^[2][3][4] critical acclaim,^[5] and commercial success. West also runs his own record label GOOD Music. GOOD Music is a hip hop and R&B Record label founded by music producer and rapper Kanye West. ^[6] West's mascot and trademark is "Dropout Bear," a teddy bear, which has appeared on the covers of his three albums as well as the singles cover for his songs "Stronger" and "Homecoming. The teddy bear is a stuffed Toy Bear. It is an enduring traditional form of a Stuffed animal, often serving the purpose of comforting children " Stronger " is the second single from Kanye West 's album Graduation. "^[7]

West's parents divorced when he was three years old, and he and his mother moved to Chicago, Illinois. Chicago (ʃɪˈkɑːgoʊ is the largest City by population in the state of Illinois and the American Midwest of the United States. The State of Illinois ( roughly ill-i-NOY is a state of the United States of America, the 21st to be admitted to the Union. He enrolled at Chicago State University but later dropped out to continue pursuing his music career. Chicago State University (CSU is a State university in Chicago, Illinois. He later gained fame by producing hit singles for musical artists including Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, and Janet Jackson. Shawn Corey Carter (born December 4 1969 better known as Jay-Z, is an American Rapper and former CEO of Def Jam Recordings and Roc-A-Fella Alicia J Augello-Cook (born January 25 1981 professionally known as Alicia Keys, is an American R&B, soul, and Neo soul Janet Damita Jo Jackson (born May 16 1966 is an American recording artist and entertainer West's style of production often utilizes pitched-up vocal samples, usually from soul songs, with his own drums and instruments. The soul, according to many religious and philosophical beliefs is the self-awareness, or Consciousness, unique to a particular living 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. A benefit concert is a Concert, show or gala featuring musicians comedians or other performers that is held for a charitable purpose often directed at a specific Hurricane Katrina of the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season was the costliest hurricane, as well as one of the five deadliest in the history of the United States George Walker Bush ( born July 6 1946 is the forty-third and current President of the United States. "

On May 16, 2008, Kanye West was crowned by MTV as the year's #1 "Hottest MC In The Game. MTV ( Music Television) is an American Cable television network based in New York City. "^[8]

Contents 1 Life and career 1.1 The Blueprint (2001) 1.2 The College Dropout (2002–2004) 1.3 Late Registration (2005) 1.4 Awards and controversy (2006) 1.5 Graduation and Glow in the Dark Tour (2007 – present) 2 Political views 2.1 Hurricane Katrina fundraiser controversy 3 Mother's death 4 Discography 5 Awards 6 References 7 External links

Life and career

Kanye West was born in Atlanta, Georgia,^[9] where he lived with both of his parents. When he was three years old (as mentioned in "Hey Mama") his parents divorced, and he and his mother moved to Chicago, Illinois. Chicago (ʃɪˈkɑːgoʊ is the largest City by population in the state of Illinois and the American Midwest of the United States. The State of Illinois ( roughly ill-i-NOY is a state of the United States of America, the 21st to be admitted to the Union. ^[10] His father was Ray West, a former Black Panther who was one of the first black photojournalists at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and is now a Christian counselor. The Black Panther Party (originally the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense) was a Marxist / Maoist African-American organization established Photojournalism is a particular form of Journalism (the collecting editing and presenting of news material for publication or broadcast that creates images in order to tell The Atlanta Journal-Constitution is the only major daily Newspaper in Atlanta Georgia, USA and its suburbs. ^[10] West's late mother, Dr. Donda West, was a Professor of English at Clark Atlanta University, and the Chair of the English Department at Chicago State University before retiring to serve as West's manager. Clark Atlanta University (CAU is a private, historically black university in Atlanta, Georgia. Chicago State University (CSU is a State university in Chicago, Illinois. He was raised in an upper-middle-class background, attending Polaris High School^[11] in suburban Oak Lawn, Illinois after living in Chicago. The upper middle class is a sociological concept referring to the Social group constituted by higher-status members of the Middle class. Oak Lawn is a village in Cook County, Illinois, United States. Chicago (ʃɪˈkɑːgoʊ is the largest City by population in the state of Illinois and the American Midwest of the United States. ^[12]

West took some art classes at the American Academy of Art, a Chicago art school, and also enrolled at Chicago State University, but dropped out due to poor grades and a primary interest in working on his music career. The American Academy of Art is a professional accredited fine arts school located in downtown Chicago Illinois. Chicago State University (CSU is a State university in Chicago, Illinois. ^[13] While attending school, West produced for local artists. He later gained fame by producing hit singles for major hip hop/R&B artists, including Jay-Z, Talib Kweli, Cam'ron, Paul Wall, Common, Mobb Deep, Jermaine Dupri, Scarface, The Game, Alicia Keys, Janet Jackson and John Legend among others. Shawn Corey Carter (born December 4 1969 better known as Jay-Z, is an American Rapper and former CEO of Def Jam Recordings and Roc-A-Fella Talib Kweli Greene (born October 3, 1975) better known as Talib Kweli, is an American MC from Brooklyn, New Cameron Giles (born February 4 1976) better known by his Stage name Cam'ron, is a Rapper, Songwriter, and Actor Paul Slayton, better known by his Stage name Paul Wall, was born March 11, 1981. Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr (born March 13 1972) better known by his Stage name Common (and previously known as Common Sense) is an Mobb Deep is a hip hop duo that consists of Havoc and Prodigy. Jermaine Dupri, also known as JD, (born Jermaine Dupri Mauldin) is an American Record producer and Rapper. Brad Jordan, better known by his Stage name Scarface (and formerly Akshen) is an American Rapper originally known for his work Jayceon Terrell Taylor (born November 29 1979 better known by his Stage name The Game, is an American Rapper. Alicia J Augello-Cook (born January 25 1981 professionally known as Alicia Keys, is an American R&B, soul, and Neo soul Janet Damita Jo Jackson (born May 16 1966 is an American recording artist and entertainer John Stephens (born December 28, 1978) better known by his Stage name John Legend, is a Grammy Award winning American soul He also "ghost-produced" for his mentor Deric Angelettie, according to his song "Last Call" and the credits of Nas' "Poppa Was a Playa. Deric Michael Angelettie, otherwise known as "D-Dot" "Papa Dot" and "The Madd Rapper" (born July 31, 1968 in Adelphi Hospital Nasir Jones, nɑːˈsiər (born September 14 1973 better known by his Stage name Nas, nɑːz formerly Nasty Nas, is an American rapper "^[13]

West's style of production often utilizes pitched-up vocal samples, usually from soul songs, with his own drums and instruments. Soul music is a Music genre that combines Rhythm and blues and Gospel music, originating in the United States. ^[14] The first major label song he produced was The Truth by Beanie Sigel, and his first major release featuring his trademark vocal sampling style was "This Can't Be Life," a track from Jay-Z’s The Dynasty: Roc La Familia. The Truth is the debut album by Philadelphian rapper Beanie Sigel. Dwight Grant (born on March 6, 1974) also known as Beanie Sigel, is an American Rapper from Philadelphia Pennsylvania The Dynasty Roc La Familia is the 5th studio album released by East Coast hip hop artist Jay-Z. West said he sped up the drum beat of Dr. Dre's "Xxplosive" to use as a replacement for his drums on "This Can't Be Life. Andre Romelle Young (born February 18 1965 primarily known by his stage name Dr "^[15]

West has said that Wu-Tang Clan producer RZA influenced him in his style,^[12][16] and has said on numerous occasions that Wu-Tang rappers Ghostface Killah and Ol' Dirty Bastard were some of his all-time favorites. Robert F Diggs (born July 5, 1969) better known as RZA (pronounced) is an American Music producer, Rapper, and occasional Dennis Coles, better known by his Stage name Ghostface Killah, is an American rapper and member of the Wu-Tang Clan. Russell Tyrone Jones ( November 15 1968 – November 13 2004) was an American Rapper who went by the Stage name Said by Kanye West: "Wu-Tang? Me and my friends talk about this all the time… We think Wu-Tang had one of the biggest impacts as far as a movement. From slang to style of dress, skits, the samples. Similar to the [production] style I use, RZA has been doing that. "^[17]

The Blueprint (2001)

West’s sound was featured heavily on Jay-Z's critically acclaimed album The Blueprint, released on September 11, 2001. Shawn Corey Carter (born December 4 1969 better known as Jay-Z, is an American Rapper and former CEO of Def Jam Recordings and Roc-A-Fella The Blueprint is the sixth Studio album by Rapper Jay-Z. It was released on September 11 2001 (a week earlier than planned Events 9 - The Battle of the Teutoburg Forest ends 506 - The Bishops of Visigothic Gaul Year 2001 ( MMI) was a Common year starting on Monday according to the Gregorian calendar. ^[14] His work was featured on the lead single "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" and a diss track against Nas and Mobb Deep named "Takeover"; West has worked with Mobb Deep and Nas since the track's release. " Izzo (HOVA " (often referred to as " H to the Izzo " was a single released from Jay-Z in 2001 from his sixth album The Nasir Jones, nɑːˈsiər (born September 14 1973 better known by his Stage name Nas, nɑːz formerly Nasty Nas, is an American rapper Mobb Deep is a hip hop duo that consists of Havoc and Prodigy. "Takeover" is an Album track recorded by Jay-Z for his 2001 hip hop album The Blueprint. ^[14] West soon became a major name in hip hop production following the release of the album, but struggled to find a way to get a record deal. Jay-Z admitted that Roc-A-Fella was initially reluctant to support West as a rapper, claiming that he saw him as a producer first and foremost. Roc-A-Fella Records is a United States record label founded by Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter. ^[18] Multiple record companies pushed him aside because he was not the stereotypical hip hop artist. ^[19] Companies felt he was not as marketable as rappers who portray the "street image" prominent in hip hop culture. ^[15]

The College Dropout (2002–2004)

On October 23, 2002, West was involved in a near fatal car crash while driving home from the recording studio. Events 4004 BC - Creation of the world begins according to the calculations of Archbishop James Ussher 42 BC - See also 2002 (disambiguation Year 2002 ( MMII) was a Common year starting on Tuesday of the Gregorian calendar. The crash provided inspiration for West's first single, "Through the Wire. " Through the Wire " is a hip hop song performed by Rapper Kanye West for his debut album The College Dropout (2004 "^[20] West's faith is apparent in many of his songs, such as "Jesus Walks," which became a staple at his benefit performances, such as the Live 8 concert. " Jesus Walks " was the third single from Kanye West 's debut album The College Dropout. Live 8 was a string of Benefit concerts that took place on 2 July, 2005, in the G8 states and in South Africa. These songs were featured on West's debut album, The College Dropout, which was released on Roc-A-Fella Records in February 2004, and went on to receive critical acclaim. The College Dropout is the debut album by Rapper and producer Kanye West, released February 10 2004 Roc-A-Fella Records is a United States record label founded by Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter. The album also defined the style for which West would become known, including wordplay and sampling. In Music, sampling is the act of taking a portion or sample, of one Sound recording and reusing it as an instrument or element of a new recording ^[20] The album went certified triple platinum. Guest appearances included Jay-Z, Ludacris, GLC, Consequence, Talib Kweli, Mos Def, Common, and Syleena Johnson. Shawn Corey Carter (born December 4 1969 better known as Jay-Z, is an American Rapper and former CEO of Def Jam Recordings and Roc-A-Fella Talib Kweli Greene (born October 3, 1975) better known as Talib Kweli, is an American MC from Brooklyn, New Dante Terrell Smith (born December 11, 1973) better known by his stage name Mos Def, is an American MC and Actor. Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr (born March 13 1972) better known by his Stage name Common (and previously known as Common Sense) is an Syleena Johnson (born September 2, 1972 in Harvey Illinois) is a Grammy -nominated R&B Singer and Songwriter The album also featured the singles, "All Falls Down" and "The New Workout Plan," as well as Twista's single, "Slow Jamz. " All Falls Down " is the second single from Kanye West 's debut album The College Dropout. " The New Workout Plan " is a fast paced dance song from Kanye West 's debut album The College Dropout. " Slow Jamz " is the Grammy-nominated first single from Twista 's album Kamikaze. "^[21]

West was involved in a financial dispute over Royce Da 5'9"'s song "Heartbeat," produced by West and released on Build & Destroy: The Lost Sessions. Ryan Montgomery (born July 5, 1977) is an MC known by his Stage name Royce Da 5'9". West maintains that Royce never paid for the beat, but recorded to it and released it; hearing him on the beat, the original customers decided not to buy it from West. After the disagreement, West vowed to never work with Royce again. ^[22] Other Kanye West-produced hit singles during the period The College Dropout was released included "I Changed My Mind" by Keyshia Cole, "Overnight Celebrity" by Twista and "Talk About Our Love" by Brandy. " I Changed My Mind " is the debut single from American R&B Singer, Keyshia Cole from her platinum Debut album, Keyshia Michelle Cole (born October 15 1981 is an American Grammy -nominated R&B Singer-songwriter, and Record producer known " Overnight Celebrity " is the second single off Twista 's 2004 album Kamikaze. Carl Terrell Mitchell, (born Novermber 27 1973 better known by his Stage name Twista, is an American hip-hop emcee who once held the title of fastest emcee in the " Talk About Our Love " is an R&B song performed by American entertainer Brandy, co-written by producers Kanye West and Harold Lilly ^[20]

Late Registration (2005)

On August 30, 2005, West released his second album Late Registration. Events 1363 - Beginning date of the Battle of Lake Poyang; the forces of two Chinese rebel leaders— Chen Youliang and Year 2005 ( MMV) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. Late Registration is the critically acclaimed second studio album by Chicago hip hop artist Kanye West. Reviews were mostly favorable, with Rolling Stone commenting that "Late Registration is an undeniable triumph,"^[23] and with Spin mentioning it is "As ornate and bloated as West's ego. Rolling Stone is a United States -based Magazine devoted to Music, Politics, and Popular culture that is published Spin is a Music Magazine that reports on Music for Life Founded in 1985 by publisher Bob Guccione Jr "^[24] With the help of producer samples in different ways along with compositions of strings and other sounds, the record earned the number one spot on the Village Voice's Pazz & Jop critics' poll of 2005. This article is about a New York newspaper For the Ottawa Hills Ohio magazine see The Village Voice of Ottawa Hills. ^[25] The first two singles from Late Registration were "Diamonds from Sierra Leone" (which features vocals from Shirley Bassey's "Diamonds Are Forever") and "Gold Digger" featuring Jamie Foxx, (which contains an interpolation of Ray Charles's "I Got a Woman"). " Diamonds from Sierra Leone" was the first single from Kanye West 's second album Late Registration. Dame Shirley Veronica Bassey DBE (born 8 January 1937 Cardiff, Wales) is a Welsh Singer. " Gold Digger " is a song recorded by American rapper Kanye West featuring guest vocals by Jamie Foxx. Jamie Foxx (born Eric Marlon Bishop; December 13, 1967) is an Academy Award -winning American Actor, Singer Ray Charles Robinson ( September 23, 1930 – June 10, 2004) known by his Stage name Ray Charles, was an American " I Got a Woman " was a career-defining song for American R&B musician Ray Charles when released as a single in December of 1954. The album sold over 860,000 copies in its first week,^[26] and earned eight Grammy Award nominations including Album of the Year and Record of the Year for the song "Gold Digger. The Grammy Awards (originally called the Gramophone Awards)—or Grammys —are presented annually by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences " Gold Digger " is a song recorded by American rapper Kanye West featuring guest vocals by Jamie Foxx. "^[27] The album also included "My Way Home," a track that sampled Gil Scott-Heron's mournful "Home Is Where The Hatred Is. Gil Scott-Heron (born April 1 1949) is an American Poet, Musician, and Author known primarily for his late 1960s and " The album is certified triple platinum. ^[28] Guest appearances include Lupe Fiasco, Jamie Foxx, Adam Levine, Paul Wall, GLC, Cam'ron, Common, Brandy, Jay-Z, Consequence, The Game, and Really Doe. Wasalu Muhammad Jaco (born February 16 1982 better known by his Stage name Lupe Fiasco, is a Grammy -winning American rapper. Jamie Foxx (born Eric Marlon Bishop; December 13, 1967) is an Academy Award -winning American Actor, Singer Adam Noah Levine (born March 18 1979) is an American Singer - Songwriter and Guitarist. Paul Slayton, better known by his Stage name Paul Wall, was born March 11, 1981. Leonard Harris, most commonly known as GLC, which stands for Gangsta L Cameron Giles (born February 4 1976) better known by his Stage name Cam'ron, is a Rapper, Songwriter, and Actor Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr (born March 13 1972) better known by his Stage name Common (and previously known as Common Sense) is an Shawn Corey Carter (born December 4 1969 better known as Jay-Z, is an American Rapper and former CEO of Def Jam Recordings and Roc-A-Fella Consequence (born Dexter Raymond Mills Jr on June 14, 1977) is an American hip hop artist from Queens New York Jayceon Terrell Taylor (born November 29 1979 better known by his Stage name The Game, is an American Rapper. ^[29]

In September 2005, West announced that he would release his Pastelle Clothing line in spring 2006:^[30] "Now that I have a Grammy under my belt and Late Registration is finished, I am ready to launch my clothing line next spring. Pastelle Clothing is a clothing label founded by music producer and rapper Kanye West. " The current status of this project is unknown. In that year, West produced the hit singles "Go" by Common and "Dreams" by The Game. Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr (born March 13 1972) better known by his Stage name Common (and previously known as Common Sense) is an " Dreams " is the third official (fourth overall single by Rapper The Game, taken from his Debut album, The Documentary Jayceon Terrell Taylor (born November 29 1979 better known by his Stage name The Game, is an American Rapper. ^[31]

Awards and controversy (2006)

In January 2006, West again sparked controversy when he appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone in the image of Jesus wearing a crown of thorns. Rolling Stone is a United States -based Magazine devoted to Music, Politics, and Popular culture that is published ^[32] He also sings in one of his songs, "I throw up historical subjects in a way that makes kids want to learn about them," West claimed, "[I'm] definitely in the history books already. " ^[33]

After the 2006 Grammy nominations were released, West said he would "really have a problem" if he didn't win the Album of the Year because of the comments, saying "I don't care what I do, I don't care how much I stunt — you can never take away from the amount of work I put into it. The Grammy Awards (originally called the Gramophone Awards)—or Grammys —are presented annually by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences I don't want to hear all of that politically correct stuff. "^[34] West won several Grammy awards, including Best Rap Album, but did not win the Album of the Year Award. ^[35] The award instead went to U2's How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb. How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb is the eleventh studio album by Irish rock band U2, released in November 2004 Coincidentally, in November 2006, West was the opening act for U2 during the fifth leg of their Vertigo Tour in Australia and New Zealand. ^[35]

On August 5, 2006, West headlined the second day of the Lollapalooza music festival in his hometown of Chicago. Events 642 - Battle of Maserfield - Penda of Mercia defeats and kills Oswald of Bernicia. Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Lollapalooza is an American music festival featuring Alternative rock, hip hop, and Punk rock bands Dance and Comedy performances Chicago (ʃɪˈkɑːgoʊ is the largest City by population in the state of Illinois and the American Midwest of the United States. Later that month, People magazine reported that West became engaged to his girlfriend Alexis while spending two weeks overseas with her. People (full name People Weekly) is a weekly American Magazine of Celebrity and human interest stories, published ^[36]

On November 2, 2006, when "Touch the Sky" failed to win Best Video at the MTV Europe Music Awards, West went onto the stage as the award was being presented to Justice and Simian for "We Are Your Friends" and argued that he should have won the award instead. Events 1570 - A Tidal wave in the North Sea devastates the coast from Holland to Jutland, killing more than 1000 Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. " Touch the Sky" is the fourth single released from Kanye West 's second Album, Late Registration. Justice is a Grammy -nominated French electronic music duo consisting of Gaspard Augé (b Simian were an English electro-rock band best-known for their song "La Breeze" which was featured in the Peugeot 1007 Advertisement and in the ^[37][38] Hundreds of news outlets worldwide criticized the outburst. On November 7, 2006, West apologized for this outburst publicly during his performance as support act for U2 for their Vertigo concert in Brisbane, Australia. Events 1492 - The Ensisheim Meteorite the oldest Meteorite with a known date of impact strikes the Earth around noon in a Wheat Year 2006 ( MMVI) was a Common year starting on Sunday of the Gregorian calendar. Brisbane ( is the state capital of Queensland. Brisbane is the third most populous city in Australia and the most populous city of Queensland For a topic outline on this subject see List of basic Australia topics. ^[39]

In December 2006, Robert "Evel" Knievel sued West for trademark infringement in West's video for "Touch the Sky. This article is about the stunt performer For the wooden roller coaster by the same name see Evel Knievel (roller coaster Robert Craig "Evel" Knievel " Knievel is taking issue with a "sexually-charged video" in which West takes on the persona of "Evel Kanyevel" and attempts flying a rocket over a canyon. The suit filed in federal court claims infringement on his trademarked name and likeness. Knievel also claims the "vulgar and offensive" images depicted in the video damage his reputation. The suit seeks damages and to stop distribution of the video. ^[40]

This year he was also rumored to be working on Michael Jackson's next album, which was scheduled for late 2007, along with his cousin Devo Springsteen and John Legend. Michael Joseph Jackson (born August 29 1958 is an American musician entertainer and businessman Devon Harris (born December 9, 1977 in Columbus GA) better known as Devo Springsteen, is a Grammy Award winning producer John Stephens (born December 28, 1978) better known by his Stage name John Legend, is a Grammy Award winning American soul ^[41]

Graduation and Glow in the Dark Tour (2007 – present)

In 2007, it was announced that West would be starring in a series directed by Larry Charles. Stadium Negara is a Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and was the first indoor stadium in the country Kuala Lumpur (ˈkwɑːləlʊmˈpʊər Malay /kwɑlɑlʊmpʊ/ and locally /kwɑləlʊmpɔ/ or even /kɔlɔmpɔ/ or often abbreviated as K Larry Charles ( February 20, 1956) is an American Emmy Award -winning writer director and producer He has been working on the pilot episode for the past two years with Larry Charles and Rick Rubin. Frederick Jay "Rick" Rubin (born March 10 1963 in Lido Beach New York) is an American Record producer and is currently He also had this to say on January 14: "I wouldn't do something as cliché as a reality show. Events 1129 - Formal approval of the Order of the Templar at the Council of Troyes. At least give me the credit for being more creative than that. It's a situational half-hour comedy. It's fictional, and loosely based on my life. "^[42] West recently collaborated with Japanese hip hop group Teriyaki Boyz to produce the single "I Still Love H. Teriyaki Boyz is a j-hip hop group from Tokyo Japan. The four MCs in the group are Ilmari and Ryo-Z from Rip Slyme, VERBAL from M-flo, E. R. ," a reference to Common's 1994 single "I Used to Love H.E.R.. Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr (born March 13 1972) better known by his Stage name Common (and previously known as Common Sense) is an " I Used to Love HER " is a hip hop song by the Chicago -born rapper Common. " It is rumored that West's introductory lines preceding his verse are a thinly-veiled jab at producer and rapper Danny!, who was mercilessly compared to West in the beginning of his career

Further to this, during a radio appearance in early 2007, West, like many of his peers, recorded an impromptu freestyle to the popular song "Throw Some D's. Danny!, also known as D Swain (born Daniel Keith Swain August 18, 1983 in Killeen Texas) is an American Hip-hop " West's version became extremely popular because of the different stance he took. The song that to all other rappers was about automobile rims, was used by West to comically refer to D-cup breasts. Because of the unexpected success of the song, West went on to make a video for the freestyle, in which he is seen playing his 'Old Ass Cousin. '^[43]

West was also featured in a new song called "Classic (Better Than I've Ever Been). " It was believed to be a single from his upcoming album, Graduation, because he is featured on the track, but Nike quickly explained that it was for the Nike Air Force 1's anniversary. Graduation is the third Studio album by Rapper Kanye West, released on September 11 2007 on Roc-A-Fella Records. Nike Inc ('naɪki ( is a major publicly traded sportswear and equipment supplier based in the United States. The Air Force 1 Athletic shoe, is a product of Nike Inc created by designer Bruce Kilgore It was meant only to be an exclusive track for the company. ^[44]

On March 25, 2007, he and his father Ray West supported World Water Day by having a "Walk for Water" rally. Events 1199 - Richard I is wounded by a crossbow bolt while fighting France which leads to his death on April 6. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. In 1993 the United Nations General Assembly declared March 22 as World Day for Water (also known as World Water Day) This day was first formally ^[45] After a two-year break, West has returned to being a fashion columnist in lifestyle magazine Complex. Complex is a metropolitan men's style/lifestyle magazine founded by Marc Ecko in 2002 ^[46] On July 7, 2007 West performed with The Police and John Mayer at the American leg of Live Earth. Events 1456 - A retrial verdict acquits Joan of Arc of heresy 25 years after her death Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. The Police were a three-piece rock band consisting of Sting ( vocals, Bass guitar) Andy Summers ( Guitar, John Clayton Mayer (; born October 16 1977 is an American musician Running order In order of appearance Live Earth is an annual event developed to to combat climate change. ^[47] West hosted the August 17 edition of British comedy-variety show The Friday Night Project. Events 986 - A Byzantine army was destroyed in the pass of Trajan's Gate by the Bulgarians under the Comitopuli Comedy (from the Greek κωμωδίαkomodia has a popular meaning (any discourse generally intended to amuse especially in Television, Film, and A variety show or variety entertainment is an entertainment made up of a variety of acts especially Musical performances and Comedy Skits and ^[48] In May 2007, West split from long-time model girlfriend Alexis Rainey. ^[49]

In July 2007, West changed the release date of Graduation, his third album, from September 18, 2007, to the same release date as 50 Cent's album Curtis, September 11, 2007. Graduation is the third Studio album by Rapper Kanye West, released on September 11 2007 on Roc-A-Fella Records. Events 96 - Nerva is proclaimed Roman Emperor after Domitian is assassinated Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Curtis is the third Studio album by Rapper 50 Cent. Released on September 11 2007 the album features production from Dr Events 9 - The Battle of the Teutoburg Forest ends 506 - The Bishops of Visigothic Gaul Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ^[50] 50 Cent later claimed that if Graduation were to sell more records than Curtis, he would stop releasing solo albums. ^[51] However, 50 Cent would later dispel his comments. ^[52] The album has been certified double platinum. Guest appearances included T-Pain, Mos Def, & Lil Wayne. Faheem Rasheed Najm (born September 30, 1985 in Tallahassee, Florida) better known by his Stage name T-Pain, is an Dante Terrell Smith (born December 11, 1973) better known by his stage name Mos Def, is an American MC and Actor. Dwayne Michael Carter Jr (born September 27 1982 better known by his Stage name Lil Wayne, is an American Rapper. ^[53]

“

When I heard that thing about the debate, I thought that was the stupidest thing. When my albums drops and 50's album drops, you're gonna get a lot of good music at the same time. [54]

”

Like its predecessors, West's Graduation contained extensive sampling of music by eclectic and often obscure artists, including "Champion," taking its hook from a snippet of Steely Dan's "Kid Charlemagne," and "The Glory," which uses as its foundation Laura Nyro's "Save the Country. Graduation is the third Studio album by Rapper Kanye West, released on September 11 2007 on Roc-A-Fella Records. Steely Dan is a American rock band centered on core members Walter Becker and Donald Fagen. " Kid Charlemagne " is a song by the Rock group Steely Dan, which was released as a single from their 1976 album The Royal Scam Laura Nyro (born Laura Nigro) ( October 18, 1947 – April 8, 1997) was an American Composer, Lyricist " On August 26, 2007, West appeared as himself on the HBO television show Entourage which he used as a platform to premier his new single "Good Life" during the end credits. Events 1071 - Battle of Manzikert: The Seljuk Turks defeat the Byzantine Army at Manzikert. Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Entourage is an Emmy Award -winning HBO original series created by Doug Ellin that chronicles the rise of Vincent Chase — a " Good Life " is the Grammy Award nominated third single from Rapper Kanye West 's album Graduation. In September 2007, West suggested that his race had to do with his being overlooked for opening the MTV Video Music Awards in favor of Britney Spears; he claimed, "Maybe my skin’s not right. September 2007 is the ninth month of that year It began on a Saturday The MTV Video Music Awards were established in the end of the summer of 1984 by MTV to celebrate the top Music videos of the year Britney Jean Spears (born December 2 1981 is an American recording artist and entertainer "^[55] On September 9, 2007, West performed at the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards. Events 1000 - Battle of Svolder, Viking Age. 1379 - Treaty of Neuberg, splitting the Austrian Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. The 2007 MTV Video Music Awards, honoring the best Music videos from July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2007, took place September On that night, he lost all 5 awards that he was nominated for, including Best Male Artist and Video of the Year. After the show, he was visibly upset that he had lost at the VMA's 2 years in a row, stating that he would not come back to MTV ever again. He also appeared on several radio stations saying that when he made the song "Stronger" that it was his dream to open the VMA's with it. " Stronger " is the second single from Kanye West 's album Graduation. He has also stated that Britney Spears hasn't had a hit in a long period of time and that MTV exploited her for ratings. ^[56]

Following the MTV stint, West was nominated in 8 Grammy Award categories for the 50th annual Grammy Awards. The 50th Annual Grammy Awards took place at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, on February 10 2008 starting at 8PM EST. ^[57] He won four of them,^[4] including Best Rap Album for Graduation and Best Rap Solo Performance for "Stronger" from Graduation. Graduation is the third Studio album by Rapper Kanye West, released on September 11 2007 on Roc-A-Fella Records. " Stronger " is the second single from Kanye West 's album Graduation. During the four-hour televised Grammy Awards ceremony, West also performed two songs: "Stronger" (with Daft Punk) and "Hey Mama" (in honor of his recently deceased mother). Daft Punk ^[58]

Kanye West and designer Alex Phifer ended their 18-month engagement in 2008. The couple had been dating on and off since 2002, with Kanye eventually proposing in August 2006. According to a friend, the couple's relationship had been straining, significantly influenced by the sheer amount of time and attention West was dedicating to his current concert tour. "Its always sad when things like this end, and we remain friends," Phifer told People. People (full name People Weekly) is a weekly American Magazine of Celebrity and human interest stories, published ^[59]

On April 16, Kanye kicked off the Glow In The Dark Tour in Seattle at the Key Arena. The Glow In The Dark Tour is a critically acclaimed world Concert tour by Kanye West, which featured various high profile support acts including Lupe Fiasco KeyArena at Seattle Center, also known as KeyArena is located north of downtown Seattle, USA on the grounds of Seattle Center (the site of 1962 The tour, which ends in June in Cincinnati, features three opening acts: Lupe Fiasco, Rihanna, and N.E.R.D. Kanye is now supported by three times DMC World Champion: DJ Craze after his usual tour DJ: A-Trak decided to take a break to focus on his solo career. Wasalu Muhammad Jaco (born February 16 1982 better known by his Stage name Lupe Fiasco, is a Grammy -winning American rapper. Rihanna (pronounced /riːˈɑːnə/ born Robyn Rihanna Fenty; February 20 1988 is a Barbadian singer, model and Fashion designer NERD (alternatively written as N*E*R*D) is an Alternative rock, Funk, and hip hop band formed in 2001 DJ Craze ( November 19, 1977 - born Aristh Delgado, is a Nicaraguan American DJ who plays hip hop, Breaks A-Trak (born Alain Macklovitch March 30, 1982) is a Montreal -based DJ and Turntablist.

Political views

In the song "Crack Music," West rapped, "How [did] we stop the Black Panthers?/Ronald Reagan cooked up an answer," a reference to the conspiracy allegation that the Reagan administration intentionally placed crack cocaine in the ghettos of the United States. The Black Panther Party (originally the Black Panther Party for Self-Defense) was a Marxist / Maoist African-American organization established The United States Presidency of Ronald Reagan, also known as the Reagan Administration, was a Republican administration headed by Crack cocaine or crack is a solid smokable form of Cocaine. It is a freebase form of cocaine that can be made using baking soda ( Sodium bicarbonate A ghetto is described as a "portion of a city in which members of a minority group live especially because of social legal or economic pressure ^[60] In the song "Roses," West rapped about his grandmother's struggle against AIDS and expressed his outrage at the limited availability of treatment: "If Magic Johnson got a cure for AIDS / And all the broke mothafuckas passed away / You telling me if my grandma was in the NBA / Right now she would be okay?. " This is also a reference to Johnson's highly publicized battle with the HIV virus. Human immunodeficiency virus ( HIV) is a Lentivirus (a member of the Retrovirus family that can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome Demonstrating his views against George W. Bush, in a 2006 live orchestral performance of "All Falls Down", West replaced "the White man gets paid off of all of that" with "George Bush gets paid off of all of that. George Walker Bush ( born July 6 1946 is the forty-third and current President of the United States. "^[61]

On August 22, 2005, the MTV special All Eyes On Kanye West aired, in which West spoke out against homophobia in hip-hop. Events 392 - Arbogast has Eugenius elected Western Roman Emperor. Year 2005 ( MMV) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. MTV ( Music Television) is an American Cable television network based in New York City. BenPhelpsJPG|thumb|right|Westboro Baptist Church picket signs with Ben Phelps grandson of Fred Phelps He claimed that hip-hop has always been about "speaking your mind and about breaking down barriers, but everyone in hip-hop discriminates against gay people. Homosexuality refers to sexual behavior with or attraction to people of the same sex or to a Homosexual orientation. "^[60] He then reflected on a personal experience. He said that he had a "turning point" when he realized one of his cousins was gay. He said regarding this experience: "This is my cousin. I love him and I've been discriminating against gays. " He drew comparison between African Americans' struggle for civil rights and today's gay rights movement. Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender social movements share related goals of social acceptance of Homosexuality, Bisexuality and Transgenderism Lesbian The following year, in an interview with Entertainment Weekly, West further expounded his experiences with and views on the relationship between the black and gay communities:

“

. Entertainment Weekly (sometimes abbreviated as EW) is a Magazine published by Time Inc . . Well, my level of consciousness has since raised. And I actually think that standing up for gays was even more crazy than bad-mouthing the president. In the black community, someone could label you gay and bring your career down. But that was me showing what black people are really about today, or at least what we need to be about. [62]

”

Hurricane Katrina fundraiser controversy

On September 2, 2005, during a benefit concert for Hurricane Katrina relief on NBC, A Concert for Hurricane Relief, West was a featured speaker. Events 44 BC - Pharaoh Cleopatra VII of Egypt declares her son co-ruler as Ptolemy XV Caesarion. Year 2005 ( MMV) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays full calendar of the Gregorian calendar. A benefit concert is a Concert, show or gala featuring musicians comedians or other performers that is held for a charitable purpose often directed at a specific Hurricane Katrina of the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season was the costliest hurricane, as well as one of the five deadliest in the history of the United States The National Broadcasting Company ( NBC) is an American Television network headquartered in the GE Building in New York City's A Concert for Hurricane Relief was an hour-long celebrity-driven benefit concert broadcasted live Controversy arose when West was presenting, as he deviated from the prepared script:

“

I hate the way they portray us in the media. You see a black family, it [the media] says, 'they're looting'. You see a white family, it says, 'they're looking for food'. And, you know, it's been five days [waiting for federal help] because most of the people are black. And even for me to complain about it, I would be a hypocrite because I've tried to turn away from the TV, because it's too hard to watch. I've even been shopping before even giving a donation, so now I'm calling my business manager right now to see what's, what is the biggest amount I can give, and just to imagine if I was, if I was down there, and those are, those are my people down there. So anybody out there that wants to do anything that we can help — with the set up, the way America is set up to help, the poor, the black people, the less well-off, as slow as possible. I mean, this is, the Red Cross is doing everything they can. The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is an International humanitarian movement with approximately 97 million volunteers worldwide who stated We already realize a lot of people that could help are at war right now, fighting another way — and they've given them permission to go down and shoot us![63]

”

The actor Mike Myers, with whom West was paired to present, spoke next and continued to read the script. Michael John "Mike" Myers (born May 25, 1963) is a Canadian Actor, Comedian, Screenwriter and Film producer Once it was West's turn to speak again, he told the audience: "George Bush doesn't care about black people. " At this point, telethon producer Rick Kaplan cut off West's microphone and cut away to an unprepared Chris Tucker, but West's comments still reached much of the United States. Rick Kaplan, who served as President of CNN (1997-2000 and Senior Vice-President of ABC News (2003 was named President of MSNBC in February 2004 Christopher "Chris" Tucker (born August 31, 1972) is an American Actor and Comedian most widely known for his roles ^[64]

Mother's death

On Saturday, November 10, 2007, West's mother, Donda West, died due to complications from cosmetic surgery involving a tummy tuck and breast reduction procedure. Events 1444 - Battle of Varna: The crusading forces of King Vladislaus III of Varna (aka Ulaszlo I of Hungary and Wladyslaw Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Plastic surgery is a medical specialty interested in the correction of form and function Abdominoplasty or "tummy tuck" is a Cosmetic surgery procedure used to make the Abdomen more firm Breast reduction or reduction mammoplasty is an Outpatient surgical procedure which involves the reduction in the size of Breasts by excising ^[65] TMZ reported that Beverly Hills physician Andre Aboolian had advised Donda West not to have surgery because she had higher risk due to a health condition that could lead to a heart attack. TMZcom is a celebrity gossip and news website the result of a collaboration between AOL and Telepictures Productions, a division of Warner Bros Myocardial infarction ( MI or AMI for acute myocardial infarction) also known as a heart attack, occurs when the blood supply ^[65] Aboolian referred her to another internist. ^[65] Donda never met with the doctor recommended by Aboolian and had the procedures performed by a third doctor, Jan Adams. January Rudalgo Adams, known as Dr Jan Adams, is an American Cosmetic surgeon from Middletown Ohio who practices in Beverly Hills California ^[65]

Dr. Jan Adams sent condolences to Donda West's family but declined to publicly discuss the procedure because of confidentiality. ^[66] He had been under scrutiny by the medical board. ^[67][68][69] Dr. Adams appeared on Larry King Live on November 20, 2007 but left before speaking. Larry King Live is an American talk show hosted by Larry King on CNN. Events 284 - Diocletian was chosen as Roman Emperor. 762 - Bögü Khan of the Uyghurs, Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. Two days later, he appeared again, with his attorney, stating he was there to "defend himself. " He stated the recently released autopsy results "spoke for themselves. " ^[70] The final coroner's report January 10, 2008 said Donda West died of "coronary artery disease and multiple post-operative factors due to or as a consequence of liposuction and mammoplasty. Events 49 BC - Julius Caesar crosses the Rubicon, signaling the start of civil war. 2008 ( MMVIII) is the current year in accordance with the Gregorian calendar, a Leap year that started on Tuesday of the Common "^[71]

The funeral and burial for West's mother, Donda West, was held in Oklahoma City on November 20, 2007. Oklahoma City is the capital and largest city of the US state of Oklahoma. Events 284 - Diocletian was chosen as Roman Emperor. 762 - Bögü Khan of the Uyghurs, Year 2007 ( MMVII) was a Common year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar in the 21st century. ^[72] West held his first concert following the funeral at The O2 in London on November 22. The O2 is a large entertainment district including an indoor arena a music club a cinema an exhibition space piazzas and bars and restaurants built within a large dome-shaped He dedicated a performance of "Hey Mama," as well as a cover of Journey's "Don't Stop Believing," to his mother, and has done so on all other dates of his Glow in the Dark tour. Journey is an American rock band formed in San Francisco, California in 1973 " Don't Stop Believing " is a song by the American rock band Journey. ^[73] West also sang a performance of "Hey Mama" at the 50th Grammy Awards. The 50th Annual Grammy Awards took place at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California, on February 10 2008 starting at 8PM EST. West first referred to his mother's death in his lyrics in Young Jeezy's song "Put On. Jay Jenkins (born October 12 1977 better known by his Stage name Young Jeezy, is an American Rapper. " Put On " is the first single off Rapper Young Jeezy 's third studio album The Recession. "

Discography

Main articles: Kanye West discography and Kanye West production discography

• The College Dropout (2004)
• Late Registration (2005)
• Graduation (2007)

Awards

Main article: List of Kanye West awards

References

External links

• KanyeWest.com
• Kanye Wests Blog
• "Kanye Live!" Kanye West Website
• Kanye West at Rocafella Records
• Kanye West's iTunes Celebrity Playlist
• Kanye West at People.com
• Allmusic.com artist page
• Kanye West discography at MusicBrainz
• Kanye West at the Internet Movie Database
• Kanye West Tabs at Homemusician.net
• Tiny Mix Tapes on Kanye
• Kanye's new album, Graduation, at Power 105.1 - NYC
• West's meltdown at the 2007 VMAS
• Kanye West at "VIBE"

Persondata
NAME	Kanye West
ALTERNATIVE NAMES
SHORT DESCRIPTION	Rapper
DATE OF BIRTH	June 8, 1977
PLACE OF BIRTH	Atlanta, Georgia, United States
DATE OF DEATH
PLACE OF DEATH

People (full name People Weekly) is a weekly American Magazine of Celebrity and human interest stories, published MusicBrainz is a project that aims to create an Open content Music database Vibe is a Magazine, launched 1993 by founder Quincy Jones and funded by Time Inc Events 68 - The Roman Senate accepts emperor Galba. 536 - St Silverius becomes Pope (probable Also 1977 (album by Ash. Year 1977 ( MCMLXXVII) was a Common year starting on Saturday (link displays The State of Georgia ( is a state in the United States and was one of the original Thirteen Colonies that revolted against British rule The United States of America —commonly referred to as the

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