Challenges in the Life of Kanye West in a Detailed Timeline

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Kanye West. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Kanye Omari West, known as Ye, is a highly influential American rapper and record producer renowned for his innovative musical style and often controversial public persona. He gained prominence as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, contributing to albums like Jay-Z's 'The Blueprint' before launching his own successful recording career with 'The College Dropout' in 2004. This album and subsequent singles, including 'Slow Jamz,' 'Gold Digger,' and 'Stronger,' achieved significant commercial success, solidifying his position as a leading figure in hip-hop and pop culture. Beyond music, West's ventures include fashion and design, though his career is also marked by controversy due to his outspoken views and public behavior.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

August 2003: The College Dropout postponed

In August 2003, Kanye West's album 'The College Dropout' was initially scheduled for release but was postponed three times.

December 2006: Evel Knievel Sues Kanye West

In December 2006, Robert "Evel" Knievel sued Kanye West for trademark infringement related to West's video for "Touch the Sky." Knievel claimed the video damaged his reputation and sought monetary damages and an injunction to stop its distribution.

Loading Video...

November 2007: Mother's Death

In November 2007, Kanye West was profoundly affected by the death of his mother, Donda West, and the end of his engagement to Alexis Phifer.

2014: Sentenced to probation for battery

In 2014, Kanye West was sentenced to two years' probation for a misdemeanor battery conviction after an altercation with a paparazzo at the Los Angeles Airport. He was also required to attend anger management sessions, perform community service, and pay restitution.

November 19, 2016: Hospitalization at UCLA Medical Center

On November 19, 2016, Kanye West abruptly ended a concert and was subsequently committed to the UCLA Medical Center due to hallucinations and paranoia. The episode was initially described as "temporary psychosis" caused by dehydration and sleep deprivation. He was released from the hospital on November 30.

November 21, 2016: Cancellation of Saint Pablo Tour and Hospitalization

On November 21, 2016, Kanye West cancelled the remaining 21 dates on the Saint Pablo Tour, following erratic behavior. He was subsequently admitted to UCLA Medical Center for psychiatric observation.

2016: Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis

In 2016, Kanye West was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, although the diagnosis was not made public until his 2018 album Ye. The diagnosis was later questioned by West.

2018: Opioid Addiction Revelation

In a 2018 interview, Kanye West revealed that he had become addicted to opioids after they were prescribed following liposuction. He suggested this addiction may have contributed to his nervous breakdown in 2016.

January 2019: Coachella Pullout

In January 2019, Kanye West withdrew from headlining that year's Coachella festival due to disagreements over stage design.

September 2020: Hiatus Announcement

In September 2020, Kanye West announced that he would not release any further music until he was "done with [his] contract with Sony and Universal."

2020: Unsuccessful presidential campaign

In 2020, Kanye West ran an unsuccessful independent presidential campaign in the United States.

June 29, 2022: Copyright Infringement Lawsuit Filed

On June 29, 2022, a complaint was filed in U.S. District Court in New York claiming copyright infringement due to the unauthorized use of a sample on Kanye West's song "Flowers". The complaint alleges that West sampled Marshall Jefferson's 1986 house track "Move Your Body" without permission or compensation.

Loading Video...

July 2022: Sued by David Casavant Archive

In July 2022, Kanye West was sued for $416,000 by the fashion rental company, David Casavant Archive. The lawsuit claimed West failed to make payments and return 13 rented clothing pieces.

October 2022: Net Worth Decline

In October 2022, Forbes estimated Kanye West's net worth had dropped to $400 million, largely due to Adidas's termination of their partnership following his public antisemitic statements.

2022: Antisemitic Statements

In late 2022, Kanye West made a series of antisemitic statements, leading to the termination of his collaborations, sponsorships, and partnerships with several companies including Vogue, Universal Music Group, CAA, Balenciaga, Gap, and Adidas.

2022: Condemnation for antisemitic views

Starting in 2022, Kanye West faced widespread condemnation and lost sponsors and partnerships due to his antisemitic views.

August 2024: Allegations of Nitrous Oxide Addiction

In August 2024, Kanye West's former Chief of Staff Milo Yiannopoulos stated in an affidavit that West was addicted to nitrous oxide. He alleged that dentist Thomas Connelly was supplying the drugs at a cost of $50,000 a month after moving into West's building.

2024: Lawsuits for Wrongful Termination and Sexual Assault

In 2024, Kanye West faced multiple lawsuits. One was for wrongful termination, sexual harassment, and breach of contract by a former assistant, which West denied. Additionally, he was sued by a former model for sexual assault and strangulation, who claimed he choked and gagged her during a music video set.