History of Kanye West in Timeline
Kanye West, now known as Ye, is a multi-faceted American artist involved in rapping, singing, songwriting, record production, and fashion design. His significant cultural influence and controversial public persona have made him a prominent figure in modern pop culture.
June 8, 1977: Birth of Kanye West
Kanye Omari West was born on June 8, 1977, in Atlanta, Georgia.
1996: Kanye West's First Official Production Credits
Kanye West received his first official production credits at age 19 in 1996, producing eight tracks on "Down to Earth," the debut album of Chicago rapper Grav.
1997: Kanye West Attends American Academy of Art
Kanye West received a scholarship to attend the American Academy of Art in Chicago in 1997, where he took painting classes.
1998: Release of Portishead's "Roseland NYC Live"
English trip hop group Portishead released their live album, "Roseland NYC Live," in 1998. This album would later inspire Kanye West's work on "Late Registration."
1998: Kanye West Signs with Hip Hop Since 1978
In 1998, Kanye West became the first producer signed to the management-production company Hip Hop Since 1978.
1999: Release of "World Record Holders" and Production on "Chyna Doll"
The Go-Getters, a hip-hop group featuring Kanye West, released their only studio album, "World Record Holders," in 1999. That same year, West produced a track on Foxy Brown's album "Chyna Doll."
2000: Kanye West Begins Producing for Roc-A-Fella Records
Kanye West began working as an in-house producer for Roc-A-Fella Records in 2000.
2001: Kanye West Contributes to Jay-Z's "The Blueprint"
Kanye West made significant contributions to Jay-Z's album "The Blueprint" in 2001, which is considered a classic hip-hop album.
December 2002: Release of "Get Well Soon..." Mixtape and Car Accident
Following a car accident that shattered his jaw, Kanye West recorded "Through the Wire" and released his debut mixtape, "Get Well Soon...," in December 2002.
2002: Kanye West and Alexis Phifer Begin Relationship
Kanye West and Alexis Phifer began their on-and-off relationship in 2002. The couple's relationship lasted for several years and included a period of engagement.
2002: The Rise of a Hip-Hop Icon
Kanye West began his ascent to hip-hop greatness, with his debut album, The College Dropout, setting the stage for a career marked by critical and commercial success.
August 2003: "The College Dropout" Initial Release Date
August 2003 was the initial planned release date for Kanye West's debut album, "The College Dropout," though it was later delayed.
2003: Establishment of the Kanye West Foundation
In 2003, Kanye West and his mother established the Kanye West Foundation in Chicago. The foundation's mission was to address dropout and illiteracy rates, partnering with community organizations to provide access to music education for underprivileged youth.
February 2004: Release of "The College Dropout"
After multiple delays, Kanye West's debut album, "The College Dropout," was released in February 2004 to critical acclaim.
2004: Release of "The College Dropout"
Kanye West released his debut album, "The College Dropout," in 2004.
2004: "The College Dropout" Release and Defining West's Style
Kanye West's debut album, "The College Dropout," was released in 2004. The album showcased his unique style, blending intricate hip-hop beats with thought-provoking lyrics that touched upon a wide range of topics like education, materialism, societal issues, and personal struggles.
2004: GOOD Music Founded
Shortly after the release of his debut album, Kanye West founded the record label and production company GOOD Music in 2004. The label was established in partnership with Sony BMG.
2005: Success of "Late Registration"
Kanye West's second album, "Late Registration," was a commercial success in 2005, selling over 2.3 million units by the end of the year.
2005: "Late Registration" and Exploration of Chamber Pop
West's second studio album, "Late Registration," came out in 2005 and demonstrated his willingness to experiment with different genres. The album incorporated elements of chamber pop, further showcasing his musical versatility.
2005: Release of "Late Registration"
Kanye West released his second studio album, "Late Registration," in 2005.
2005: Participation in Hurricane Katrina Benefit Concert
In 2005, Kanye West showed solidarity with communities impacted by Hurricane Katrina by performing at a benefit concert.
2005: Kanye West Criticizes Government Response to Hurricane Katrina
In 2005, Kanye West sparked controversy by criticizing the media and the government's handling of Hurricane Katrina. He famously stated on live television that "George Bush doesn't care about black people."
2005: Cameo Appearance in "State Property 2"
Kanye West made a cameo appearance as himself in the film "State Property 2" in 2005.
August 2006: Kanye West and Alexis Phifer's Engagement
Kanye West and his then-girlfriend, designer Alexis Phifer, announced their engagement in August 2006 after several years of dating.
November 7, 2006: West Apologizes for MTV EMA Outburst
On November 7, 2006, Kanye West publicly apologized for his outburst at the MTV Europe Music Awards, where he interrupted Justice and Simian's acceptance speech for "We Are Your Friends" to argue that his song "Touch the Sky" should have won. He apologized while performing as a support act for U2 during their Vertigo concert in Brisbane.
December 2006: Lawsuit by Robert "Evel" Knievel
In December 2006, stuntman Evel Knievel filed a lawsuit against West for trademark infringement due to his portrayal of "Evel Kanyevel" in the "Touch the Sky" music video. Knievel considered the video's content "vulgar and offensive", harming his reputation.
2006: Ray West Opens Good Water Store and Café
In 2006, Kanye West's father, Ray West, opened the Good Water Store and Café in Lexington Park, Maryland, with financial support from Kanye.
2006: Launch of Clothing Line
Kanye West's interest in fashion materialized in the spring of 2006 when he launched his own clothing line. The line ran for four years before being discontinued in 2009.
January 2007: First Sneaker Collaboration
January 2007 marked Kanye West's first foray into the sneaker world with the release of a special-edition Bapesta in collaboration with A Bathing Ape.
September 2007: Graduation Released, Outsells 50 Cent's Curtis
In September 2007, Kanye West released his third studio album, "Graduation," which became a massive commercial success, outselling 50 Cent's "Curtis" by a significant margin. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200.
September 2007: West Spoofs MTV EMA Outburst on SNL
In September 2007, Kanye West spoofed his infamous MTV Europe Music Awards outburst during the 33rd-season premiere of Saturday Night Live, showing a humorous take on the incident.
November 2007: West's Mother Passes Away
Kanye West experienced a personal tragedy in November 2007 when his mother passed away. This event, along with the end of his engagement, profoundly impacted him.
November 2007: Settlement with Evel Knievel
In November 2007, shortly before his death, Evel Knievel settled the lawsuit against West after a personal visit from the rapper, expressing that he found West to be a "wonderful guy".
2007: Partnership with Strong American Schools
In 2007, the Kanye West Foundation collaborated with Strong American Schools for their "Ed in '08" campaign. Kanye West became the spokesperson and participated in public service announcements, culminating in a benefit concert.
2007: Release of "Graduation"
Kanye West released his third studio album, "Graduation," in 2007.
2007: Appearance on "Entourage"
Kanye West made a guest appearance as himself in an episode of the television show "Entourage" in 2007.
2007: "Graduation" and the Fusion of Arena Rock and Europop
In 2007, Kanye West released his third studio album, "Graduation." The album saw him embracing elements of arena rock and europop, creating a sonically ambitious and impactful project.
August 2008: Fatburger Restaurant Plans Revealed
Kanye West revealed his plans to open 10 Fatburger restaurants in the Chicago area in August 2008. His company, KW Foods LLC, acquired the rights to the chain in Chicago.
September 2008: First Fatburger Restaurant Opens
The first of Kanye West's planned Fatburger restaurants opened in Orland Park, Chicago in September 2008.
November 2008: 808s & Heartbreak Released
Kanye West's fourth studio album, "808s & Heartbreak," was released in November 2008. The album, known for its use of Auto-Tune and departure from his previous style, was a significant departure for West, showcasing his emotional vulnerability and experimentation with electronic sounds.
2008: Glow in the Dark Tour Commences
In 2008, shortly after the death of his mother and the end of his engagement, Kanye West embarked on his "Glow in the Dark Tour."
2008: Cameo Appearance in "The Love Guru"
Kanye West made another cameo appearance as himself in the film "The Love Guru" in 2008.
2008: Release of "808s & Heartbreak"
Kanye West released his fourth studio album, "808s & Heartbreak," in 2008.
2008: "808s & Heartbreak" and the Synth-Driven Era
Kanye West's fourth studio album, "808s & Heartbreak," dropped in 2008, marking a departure from his previous work. The album delved heavily into synth-driven electropop, exploring themes of heartbreak and vulnerability.
2008: West's Spiritual Awakening
West revealed his spiritual side, claiming to be "like a vessel" chosen by God and acknowledging Jesus as his savior, in an interview with The Fader.
2008: West Makes Grammy History
In 2008, West achieved a rare feat in Grammy history. He became the first solo artist to receive Album of the Year nominations for his first three albums, solidifying his impact on the music industry.
2008: West's Digital Dominance in the 2000s
By 2008, Kanye West had become a force in digital music. He was the fourth-highest certified artist in the US by digital singles sales, boasting 19 RIAA digital song certifications, the most for a male artist in the 2000s. This success established him as the fourth best-selling digital songs artist of that decade.
2008: Kanye West and Alexis Phifer End Engagement
Kanye West and Alexis Phifer ended their 18-month engagement in 2008. Phifer has stated that the breakup was amicable and that the two remain friends.
2008: Renaming to The Dr. Donda West Foundation
After the passing of Kanye West's mother in 2008, the foundation was renamed The Dr. Donda West Foundation.
January 2009: Second Fatburger Restaurant Opens
Following the opening of his first Fatburger location, Kanye West opened a second restaurant in January 2009.
January 2009: Nike Air Yeezy Collaboration
Kanye West made history in January 2009 when he collaborated with Nike to release the Air Yeezys, becoming the first non-athlete to secure a shoe deal with the sportswear giant.
2009: Internship at Fendi
Following his move to Rome in the fall of 2009, Kanye West took on an internship at the renowned Italian fashion house Fendi. During his time there, he contributed ideas to the brand's men's collection.
2009: West Acknowledges Belief in God
In an interview, West expressed his belief in God but admitted he wasn't ready to embrace any specific religion at that point in his life.
2009: Appearance in "We Were Once a Fairytale"
In 2009, Kanye West starred in the Spike Jonze-directed short film "We Were Once a Fairytale," portraying a version of himself.
2009: West Interrupts Taylor Swift at MTV VMAs
In a controversial incident at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, Kanye West interrupted Taylor Swift's acceptance speech for Best Female Video, grabbing the microphone to declare that Beyoncé deserved the award instead. This action sparked widespread criticism and became a major pop culture moment.
November 2010: West Comments on 2009 VMA Incident
In November 2010, Kanye West revisited his 2009 MTV Video Music Awards interruption of Taylor Swift during an interview, seemingly retracting his previous apologies and describing his actions as "selfless."
November 2010: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy Released
November 2010 marked the release of Kanye West's critically acclaimed fifth studio album, "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy." The album was a commercial and critical triumph, often cited as one of his best works.
December 2010: GOOD Fridays Concludes
Kanye West's "GOOD Fridays" promotional campaign concluded in December 2010. The campaign involved releasing a free song every Friday, building anticipation for "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy."
2010: Release of "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy"
Kanye West released his fifth studio album, "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy," in 2010.
2010: Release of "Runaway"
Kanye West wrote, directed, and starred in the musical short film "Runaway" in 2010. The film heavily featured music from his album "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy."
2010: Kanye West and Amber Rose's Relationship Ends
Kanye West's relationship with model Amber Rose ended in mid-2010. The split drew public attention, particularly after West's comments about taking "30 showers" before dating Kim Kardashian.
February 2011: Orland Park Fatburger Closes
In February 2011, Kanye West closed his Fatburger restaurant located in Orland Park, Chicago. Only two of the initially planned ten locations were opened.
March 2011: Silk Scarf Collaboration with M/M Paris
Kanye West teamed up with M/M Paris in March 2011 to release a series of silk scarves. The scarves featured artwork from his critically acclaimed album "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy."
August 2011: Watch the Throne Released
In August 2011, Kanye West and Jay-Z released their highly anticipated collaborative album, "Watch the Throne." The album was a commercial success, noted for its innovative release strategy of a digital release preceding the physical album.
October 2011: Watch the Throne Tour Begins
Kanye West and Jay-Z embarked on their co-headlining "Watch the Throne Tour" in October 2011, supporting their collaborative album.
October 2011: Debut Women's Fashion Show
Kanye West premiered his women's fashion label at Paris Fashion Week in October 2011. However, his debut show was met with mixed to negative reviews from critics.
2011: Release of "Watch the Throne"
Kanye West and Jay-Z released their collaborative album, "Watch the Throne," in 2011.
2011: Closure of The Dr. Donda West Foundation
The Dr. Donda West Foundation ceased operations in 2011.
January 2012: Kanye West Establishes Donda
In January 2012, Kanye West founded Donda, a creative content company named in honor of his mother. With ambitions to "pick up where Steve Jobs left off," West envisioned Donda as a design-focused entity dedicated to creating desirable and accessible products and experiences.
March 2012: Second Women's Fashion Show
In March 2012, Kanye West returned to Paris Fashion Week to showcase his second women's fashion line. This time, his collection received more positive feedback, with critics noting a significant improvement from his previous show.
April 2012: Kanye West and Kim Kardashian Begin Dating
Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, already long-time friends, embarked on a romantic relationship in April 2012. Their relationship quickly garnered significant media attention.
June 2012: Watch the Throne Tour Concludes
The "Watch the Throne Tour," featuring Kanye West and Jay-Z, concluded in June 2012 after a successful run.
September 2012: Donation to Obama Campaign
West donated to Barack Obama's re-election campaign, showing his early involvement in political contributions.
2012: West's Graduation to Critical Acclaim
West's album, Graduation, solidified his place as a hip-hop heavyweight, earning accolades such as being named the best album released between 2002 and 2012 by Complex.
2012: Premiere of "Cruel Summer" at Cannes
Kanye West's short film "Cruel Summer," which he wrote and directed, premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2012. The film was inspired by his compilation album of the same name.
2012: Performance at Hurricane Sandy Benefit Concert
Continuing his support for disaster relief, Kanye West performed at a benefit concert in 2012 following the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy.
May 2013: West Expresses Interest in Architecture
In May 2013, Kanye West expressed his desire to venture into architecture, stating his ambition to design beyond just clothing. He emphasized his identity as a "product person."
June 2013: North West is Born
Kanye West and Kim Kardashian welcomed their first child, daughter North West, in June 2013.
June 18, 2013: Yeezus Released
Kanye West's sixth studio album, "Yeezus," was released on June 18, 2013. Known for its experimental and industrial sounds, "Yeezus" received widespread critical acclaim. The album marked a departure from his previous work, embracing a more abrasive and minimalist aesthetic.
September 2013: Yeezus Tour Kicks Off
In September 2013, Kanye West embarked on his first solo tour in five years, the "Yeezus Tour," to support his album of the same name. The tour featured Kendrick Lamar as a supporting act and was met with critical acclaim for its ambitious stage production and West's artistry.
October 2013: Kanye West and Kim Kardashian's Engagement
Kanye West proposed to Kim Kardashian in October 2013. The highly publicized engagement further fueled public interest in their relationship.
November 2013: West Presents Architectural Vision at Harvard
Further solidifying his architectural aspirations, Kanye West delivered a presentation outlining his architectural goals during a visit to Harvard Graduate School of Design in November 2013.
November 2013: West Begins Work on New Album
Kanye West confirmed in November 2013 that he had started working on his next studio album, aiming for a mid-2014 release. This period marked the beginning of the sessions that would eventually lead to his seventh studio album.
December 3, 2013: Adidas Yeezy Collaboration Confirmed
After much speculation, Adidas officially announced a new shoe collaboration with Kanye West on December 3, 2013. The highly anticipated Adidas Yeezy Boosts were later released.
2013: "Yeezus" and the Industrial, Drill, and Trap Influences
With the release of "Yeezus" in 2013, Kanye West further pushed musical boundaries. The album incorporated elements of acid house, drill, industrial rap, and trap music, resulting in a dark and experimental sound.
2013: Yeezus: A Critical Milestone
West's experimental album Yeezus took the music scene by storm in 2013, garnering widespread critical acclaim and solidifying his reputation for pushing creative boundaries. It was considered the most critically acclaimed album of the year, according to Metacritic.
2013: Release of "Yeezus"
Kanye West released his sixth studio album, "Yeezus," in 2013.
2013: Kanye West Voices Opposition to Abortion
Kanye West publicly expressed his opposition to abortion in 2013, citing his religious beliefs and the Sixth Commandment.
2013: Cameo Appearance in "Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues"
Kanye West made a cameo appearance in the comedy film "Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues" in 2013.
2013: Founding of Donda's House, Inc.
Kanye West and Rhymefest co-founded Donda's House, Inc. in 2013. This program focused on providing support and opportunities to at-risk youth in Chicago.
May 2014: Kanye West and Kim Kardashian Wed in Lavish Ceremony
Kanye West and Kim Kardashian exchanged vows in a lavish wedding ceremony at Fort di Belvedere in Florence, Italy, in May 2014. The highly publicized event attracted global media coverage.
October 2014: Donation to Democratic National Committee
West donated to the DNC, solidifying his association with the Democratic party.
2014: West's Self-Identification as a Christian
During a concert, West publicly referred to himself as a Christian, marking a significant moment in his spiritual journey.
2014: Altercation with Paparazzo and Legal Consequences
In 2014, following an altercation with a paparazzo at LAX, West received a misdemeanor battery conviction, resulting in probation, anger management, community service, and restitution.
2014: Yeezus II Initially Announced
Kanye West initially announced a new album titled "Yeezus II," intended for a 2014 release. This project, however, would later evolve and transform into what would become "The Life of Pablo."
2014: Recognition as a Leading Artist of the 21st Century
Kanye West was recognized by NME as the third most influential artist in music, reflecting his significant cultural impact. Music critics and cultural commentators lauded him for his creativity, innovation, and influence on music and art in the 21st century.
March 2015: So Help Me God Announced
In March 2015, Kanye West revealed that his upcoming album, initially titled "Yeezus II," would be tentatively called "So Help Me God." This name change signaled a shift in artistic direction.
March 2015: West Becomes Co-Owner of Tidal
Kanye West, along with other prominent music artists, became a co-owner of the music streaming service Tidal in March 2015. The platform distinguished itself by offering lossless audio and high-definition music videos.
April 2015: North West Baptized in Jerusalem
In April 2015, Kanye West and Kim Kardashian traveled to Jerusalem to have their daughter North baptized in the Armenian Apostolic Church at the Cathedral of St. James.
May 2015: West Receives Honorary Doctorate
Kanye West received an honorary doctorate from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in May 2015, recognizing his significant contributions to music, fashion, and popular culture. The institution acknowledged his impact beyond the realm of music.
August 2015: Donation to Clinton Campaign
West donated to Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign, further demonstrating his support for Democratic candidates.
November 2015: Pusha T Appointed President of GOOD Music
In November 2015, Kanye West named rapper Pusha T as the new president of his record label, GOOD Music.
December 2015: Saint West is Born
Kanye West and Kim Kardashian celebrated the birth of their second child, son Saint West, in December 2015.
2015: West Honored with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award
West's influence on music video artistry was recognized in 2015 when he received the prestigious Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, becoming the third rap artist to achieve this honor.
2015: Yeezy Clothing Line Unveiled
Expanding beyond footwear, Kanye West unveiled the Yeezy clothing line in 2015. The line premiered in collaboration with Adidas and quickly gained popularity for its distinctive aesthetic.
2015: Settlement of Civil Lawsuit
In 2015, Kanye West settled a civil lawsuit with the paparazzo involved in the 2014 altercation at LAX, just before the trial was set to begin.
January 2016: Kanye West Announces SWISH and Releases New Music
In January 2016, Kanye West made significant moves in his music career, announcing the upcoming release of his album 'SWISH' on February 11th and dropping new tracks "Real Friends" and a snippet of "No More Parties in LA" featuring Kendrick Lamar.
January 26, 2016: Kanye West Renames Album to Waves
On January 26, 2016, Kanye West publicly announced the renaming of his upcoming album from 'SWISH' to 'Waves', marking a notable shift in the project's direction.
February 14, 2016: The Life of Pablo Released on Tidal
On February 14, 2016, Kanye West officially released his highly anticipated album, 'The Life of Pablo', exclusively on the streaming platform Tidal.
February 2016: Kanye West Announces Upcoming Album "Turbo Grafx 16"
In February 2016, Kanye West used Twitter to announce his plans for a summer album release, tentatively titled "Turbo Grafx 16," a reference to the classic video game console.
June 2016: Release of "Champions" and Controversial "Famous" Video
June 2016 marked a significant period in Kanye West's career. He released "Champions," the lead single from the highly anticipated GOOD Music album, "Cruel Winter." Additionally, West released a controversial music video for his song "Famous," featuring wax figures of notable celebrities, sparking widespread debate and discussion.
June 2016: Long-Term Adidas Contract and Yeezy Expansion
Kanye West and Adidas strengthened their partnership in June 2016 by signing a new long-term contract. The agreement expanded the Yeezy line to a wider range of stores and product categories, including sportswear for basketball, football, and soccer.
August 2016: Kanye West Embarks on Saint Pablo Tour
In August 2016, Kanye West kicked off his highly anticipated Saint Pablo Tour, known for its innovative stage design featuring a mobile stage suspended from the ceiling.
November 19, 2016: Hospitalization for Mental Health
After ending a concert prematurely, West was hospitalized for a mental breakdown attributed to temporary psychosis likely triggered by sleep deprivation and dehydration. The severity of his condition led to the cancellation of 21 concerts and was significant enough to be covered by his insurance. The incident raised concerns about his well-being.
November 21, 2016: Cancellation of Saint Pablo Tour and Hospitalization
On November 21, 2016, after a series of cancelled shows and public outbursts, Kanye West cancelled the remaining dates of his Saint Pablo Tour. Following the cancellation, he was hospitalized for psychiatric observation at UCLA Medical Center.
December 2016: Meeting with Donald Trump
West met with President-elect Donald Trump, sparking significant media attention and public debate about his political stance.
2016: Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis
West received a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, providing some context to his erratic behavior and emotional struggles. This diagnosis wasn't revealed publicly until the release of his album *ye* in 2018.
2016: "The Life of Pablo" and the Gospel and Christian Rap Influence
Kanye West's exploration of gospel and Christian rap became evident with the release of "The Life of Pablo" in 2016. The album's themes and musicality reflected his evolving spiritual journey.
2016: Conviction Expunged
A judge granted West's appeal to expunge his battery conviction from 2014 from his criminal record in 2016, according to TMZ.
February 2017: West Distances Himself From Trump
West deleted his tweets supporting Trump, expressing his disapproval of Trump's policies, notably the travel ban.
May 2017: Kanye West Starts Recording in Wyoming
In May 2017, news broke that Kanye West had begun recording new music in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, marking a new chapter in his creative process with a diverse group of collaborators.
January 2018: Chicago West is Born
Kanye West and Kim Kardashian's third child, daughter Chicago West, was born via surrogate in January 2018.
April 2018: West Voices Support for Trump
West reiterated his support for Donald Trump, generating further public discussion and controversy.
April 2018: Announcement of "Break the Simulation" and Upcoming Albums
April 2018 was a month of major announcements for Kanye West. He revealed his plans to write a philosophy book titled "Break the Simulation" and shared his thoughts on life coaching via Twitter. West also announced two new albums: a solo project and a collaborative effort with Kid Cudi under the moniker Kids See Ghosts, both slated for June release. Adding to his busy schedule, he confirmed his role as producer for upcoming albums by GOOD Music artists Pusha T and Teyana Taylor, along with Nas.
May 2018: Launch of Yeezy Home
In May 2018, Kanye West announced the establishment of Yeezy Home, an architecture firm operating under his Yeezy fashion brand.
June 2018: Releases of "Daytona," "Ye," and "Kids See Ghosts"
June 2018 was a prolific month for Kanye West as he released a string of albums. It began with Pusha T's critically acclaimed "Daytona," a project West produced. Following "Daytona," West released his eighth studio album, "Ye," which he reworked significantly before its release. He concluded the month with the release of "Kids See Ghosts," a collaborative album with Kid Cudi, named after their group. Beyond his own projects, West also completed production work on Nas's "Nasir" and Teyana Taylor's "K.T.S.E.," both released in June 2018.
June 2018: First Yeezy Home Collaboration
The inaugural collaboration for Yeezy Home was unveiled in June 2018, featuring a partnership with designer Jalil Peraza. The project teased an affordable, prefabricated concrete home intended for social housing.
September 2018: Launch of Half Beast, LLC
In September 2018, Kanye West announced the establishment of Half Beast, LLC, a film production company.
September 2018: Announcement of "Yandhi," Collaboration with Chance the Rapper, and Name Change
In September 2018, Kanye West made several significant announcements. He revealed his ninth studio album, "Yandhi," would be released by the end of the month, and a collaborative album with Chance the Rapper, titled "Good Ass Job," was in the works. Furthermore, West declared he would be changing his stage name to "Ye."
September 2018: Kanye West Announces Move to Chicago
Kanye West revealed his plans to relocate permanently to Chicago in September 2018, with the intention of establishing his Yeezy company headquarters there. However, these plans did not materialize.
October 2018: Donation to Amara Enyia's Campaign
West donated to Amara Enyia, a progressive Chicago mayoral candidate, demonstrating his support for progressive policies at the local level.
2018: Kanye West Starts Using "Ye" as a Nickname
Kanye West began using "Ye" as a nickname in the years leading up to his legal name change, explaining that it held biblical significance, representing "you" and "us."
2018: West Reveals Opioid Addiction
West opened up about his addiction to opioids, which were prescribed after a liposuction procedure. He linked the addiction to his 2016 breakdown, raising awareness about the opioid crisis and its impact on mental health.
2018: Release of "Kids See Ghosts"
Kanye West and Kid Cudi released their collaborative album, "Kids See Ghosts," in 2018.
2018: West's Streaming Success Story
By 2018, a decade into Spotify's existence, West's popularity was evident in his streaming numbers. He ranked as the sixth most streamed artist on the platform, achieving a billion streams faster than most artists, securing his place as the fourth fastest to reach this milestone.
2018: "Kids See Ghosts" and Psychedelic Experimentation
In 2018, Kanye West collaborated with Kid Cudi for the album "Kids See Ghosts." The album stood out for its psychedelic elements, further highlighting West's penchant for experimentation and genre-bending.
January 6, 2019: Launch of "Sunday Service" Events
On January 6, 2019, Kanye West launched his weekly "Sunday Service" events. These gatherings featured gospel-inspired renditions of West's songs and tracks by other artists, attracting numerous celebrities like the Kardashians, Charlie Wilson, and Kid Cudi.
January 2019: Kanye West Withdraws from Coachella and "Yandhi" Leaks Online
In January 2019, Kanye West withdrew from headlining the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival due to creative differences regarding the stage design. Later in July, unreleased songs from his album "Yandhi" were leaked online.
January 2019: Donation to Roden Crater Project
Kanye West made a significant donation of $10 million in January 2019 to support the completion of the Roden Crater, an artwork by James Turrell.
May 2019: Psalm West is Born
Kanye West and Kim Kardashian's fourth child, son Psalm West, was born via surrogate in May 2019.
September 2019: Kim Kardashian Confirms Kanye's Christian Faith
Kim Kardashian stated that Kanye had a spiritual evolution, being "born again" and "saved by Christ".
October 2019: West's Public Declaration of Faith
West publicly shared his newfound devotion to Christianity, expressing his love for Jesus Christ and his regret for past actions driven by ego, money, and fame. He stated, "I didn't even know what it meant to be saved" in reference to his past, but now "I love Jesus Christ. I love Christianity."
October 25, 2019: Release of "Jesus Is King" Album
On October 25, 2019, Kanye West released his highly anticipated album "Jesus Is King." The album marked a significant milestone in his career, becoming the first to simultaneously top the Billboard 200, Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, Top Rap Albums, Top Christian Albums, and Top Gospel Albums charts.
November 2019: Kanye West Jokes About 2024 Presidential Run
In November 2019, Kanye West joked at an event about running for president in 2024, suggesting he'd create so many jobs that he'd "walk" to victory. The comment drew laughter from the audience.
December 25, 2019: Release of "Jesus Is Born" Album with Sunday Service
On December 25, 2019, Kanye West and his Sunday Service Choir released the album "Jesus Is Born." This album featured 19 gospel-inspired tracks, including reinterpretations of some of West's earlier songs.
2019: West's Shifting Stance on Bipolar Diagnosis
While initially accepting his bipolar diagnosis, West later questioned its accuracy, highlighting the complexities of mental health and the challenges of diagnosis.
2019: "Jesus is King" and West's Gospel Direction
Further solidifying his commitment to gospel music, Kanye West released "Jesus is King" in 2019. The album was a full-fledged gospel record, featuring a more overtly religious and spiritual tone.
June 2020: Donations to Families Affected by Police Brutality
Following the murder of George Floyd and subsequent protests, Kanye West donated $2 million in June 2020. The funds were distributed among the families of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, covering legal fees and establishing a college fund for Floyd's daughter.
June 30, 2020: Release of "Wash Us in the Blood" with Travis Scott
On June 30, 2020, Kanye West released "Wash Us in the Blood," a single featuring Travis Scott and intended as the lead single for his tenth studio album, "Donda." The accompanying music video was also released on the same day.
July 4, 2020: Kanye West Announces Presidential Bid
Kanye West declared his candidacy for President of the United States on July 4, 2020, via Twitter.
July 2020: Kanye West Publicly Addresses Potential Divorce
In July 2020, Kanye West acknowledged the possibility of a divorce from Kim Kardashian, attributing it to their differing views on abortion.
July 2020: West's Presidential Campaign and Platform
Throughout July 2020, Kanye West's presidential campaign unfolded, with rallies held and his platform outlined. However, concerns about his grasp of political issues arose.
July 15, 2020: Official Filing for Presidency
Formal paperwork was submitted to the Federal Election Commission on July 15, 2020, officially declaring Kanye West's candidacy under the "BDY" Party affiliation.
July 2020: Kanye West Reveals Past Abortion Stance
During a presidential campaign rally in July 2020, Kanye West shared that he had previously considered abortion during Kim Kardashian's first pregnancy but had since adopted anti-abortion views.
September 2020: Kanye West Announces Hiatus Until Contract Completion
In a significant statement in September 2020, Kanye West declared his intention to halt music releases until fulfilling his contractual obligations with Sony and Universal. His announcement fueled discussions about artist contracts and industry practices.
October 24, 2020: Kanye West Expresses Interest in California Governorship
On October 24, 2020, during his presidential campaign, Kanye West revealed on Joe Rogan's podcast that he would be open to running for Governor of California.
November 4, 2020: Kanye West Concedes Presidential Election
Kanye West officially conceded the 2020 presidential election on November 4, 2020, after receiving a relatively small percentage of votes.
2020: Kanye West Launches Presidential Campaign
Kanye West launched an independent presidential campaign in 2020, advocating for a consistent life ethic.
2020: Kanye West's Albums Featured on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time
In 2020, Rolling Stone included Kanye West's first six solo albums on their list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.
2020: West's Enduring Legacy Cemented
By 2020, West's impact on music history was undeniable. Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list included his first six solo studio albums, a testament to his enduring influence.
January 4, 2021: Allegations of Election Interference Pressure
In January 2021, a publicist associated with Kanye West was accused of pressuring a Georgia election worker to fabricate claims of election tampering.
January 2021: Reports Surface of Kanye and Kim's Divorce Discussions
Reports emerged in January 2021, suggesting that Kanye West and Kim Kardashian were engaged in discussions about a potential divorce.
May 2021: Yeezy Gap Partnership Announced
May 2021 saw Kanye West venturing into a new partnership with GAP. The 10-year deal aimed to create Yeezy Gap, a line that would make West's designs more accessible to the masses.
May 19, 2021: Kanye West Explores 2024 Presidential Run
News broke on May 19, 2021, that Kanye West was exploring a potential presidential run in 2024. The Federal Election Commission had sent a Request for Further Information (RFAI) regarding an exploratory presidential committee. West's representatives confirmed the exploration but emphasized that no final decision had been made.
August 2021: Kanye West Legally Changes Name to "Ye"
In August 2021, Kanye West filed a petition to legally change his name to "Ye." He cited "personal reasons" for the change.
August 29, 2021: Release of "Donda" Album
On August 29, 2021, Kanye West's highly anticipated album "Donda" was released, after facing multiple delays and much anticipation. Notably, the release was shrouded in controversy, as West claimed the album was released early without his full consent and alleged that Universal Music Group had altered the tracklist.
October 2021: Kanye West Sells Wyoming Ranch
In October 2021, Kanye West initiated the process of selling his ranch in Cody, Wyoming, marking a shift in his real estate holdings.
November 14, 2021: Release of "Donda" Deluxe Edition
On November 14, 2021, Kanye West released a deluxe edition of his album "Donda." The expanded version included five new tracks, offering fans additional material and insights into the creative process behind the album.
December 2021: Reports of Undisclosed Campaign Funding
Reports emerged in December 2021 alleging that Kanye West's presidential campaign received significant financial support from a network of Republican operatives. These payments were reportedly not disclosed, raising concerns about transparency and potential violations.
2021: "Donda" and the Continuation of Gospel Influences
Continuing his exploration of gospel sounds, Kanye West released "Donda" in 2021. The album blended elements of gospel with his signature hip-hop style, showcasing his ongoing musical evolution.
2021: Release of "Jeen-Yuhs" Documentary
A documentary chronicling Kanye West's life, titled "Jeen-Yuhs," was released in 2021. The film, acquired by Netflix, featured footage spanning over two decades of West's life.
January 5, 2022: Kanye West Announced as Coachella Headliner
On January 5, 2022, Kanye West was revealed as one of the highly anticipated headliners for the upcoming Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, generating excitement among fans and festivalgoers.
January 2022: Relationship with Julia Fox and Public Feud with Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson
In January 2022, Kanye West confirmed his relationship with actress Julia Fox. However, the relationship was short-lived, and they split up less than two months later. During this time, West publicly expressed his desire to reconcile with his ex-wife, Kim Kardashian, and made negative comments about her boyfriend, Pete Davidson, which was widely criticized as harassment.
September 2022: End of Yeezy Gap Partnership
Kanye West announced in September 2022 that he was ending his partnership with GAP, effectively dissolving the Yeezy Gap venture.
October 2022: Termination of Adidas Partnership
In October 2022, Adidas made the decision to terminate its partnership with Kanye West due to his controversial antisemitic remarks.
October 2022: Kanye West Faces Backlash for Antisemitic Statements
In October 2022, Kanye West faced widespread condemnation and lost numerous partnerships after making a series of antisemitic statements, including praising Adolf Hitler and denying the Holocaust.
October 2022: Kanye West's Net Worth Plummets
Kanye West's net worth saw a dramatic decrease in October 2022. Forbes estimated it had dropped to $400 million, largely attributed to the termination of his partnership with Adidas following his controversial antisemitic statements.
October 2022: West's Attempted Acquisition of Parler
Following bans on social media platforms due to antisemitic remarks, Kanye West initiated a deal to purchase the alt-tech social network Parler in October 2022. The acquisition was later abandoned.
November 2022: Kanye West and Kim Kardashian Finalize Divorce
Kanye West and Kim Kardashian's divorce was finalized in November 2022. The settlement included joint custody of their children and a monthly child support payment of $200,000 from West.
November 20, 2022: Kanye West Announces 2024 Presidential Bid
On November 20, 2022, Kanye West officially announced his intention to run for president in the 2024 election.
December 2022: "Someday We'll All Be Free" Release
In December 2022, amidst ongoing controversy surrounding his antisemitic comments, Kanye West used his Instagram platform to release a new song titled "Someday We'll All Be Free".
December 2022: West Suggests Potential Autism
West suggested he might be autistic, adding to the complexity of his public image and personal struggles.
2022: Kanye West Faces Backlash for Antisemitic Statements
In late 2022, Kanye West faced severe consequences for a series of antisemitic remarks. He lost collaborations and partnerships with major brands, including Adidas, Gap, and Balenciaga. His comments were widely condemned, leading to significant professional and personal repercussions.
2022: Kanye West's Controversial Comments on Abortion
In 2022, Kanye West ignited further controversy with remarks on abortion, equating it to "genocide and population control" targeting Black people.
January 2023: Unofficial Marriage and Potential Visa Denial
Kanye West reportedly married Bianca Censori, an architect at his Yeezy brand, in an unofficial ceremony in January 2023. However, the lack of a marriage license made it legally void. Due to his past antisemitic comments, there was public discourse about denying West a visa to visit Censori's family in Australia.
June 2023: Erick Sermon Contributes to "Y3"
During a podcast interview in February 2024, Erick Sermon shared that he had initially worked on Kanye West's eleventh studio album, "Y3," between May and June 2023. However, his contributions shifted to the "Vultures" project later.
July 2023: Kanye West's Twitter Account Reinstated
In July 2023, Twitter lifted the ban on Kanye West's account, citing assurances from West that he would refrain from posting harmful content in the future.
August 25, 2023: West Begins Recording Eleventh Studio Album
Reports surfaced on August 25, 2023, indicating that Kanye West was actively working on his eleventh studio album. Sources close to West suggested an imminent release of new music.
October 2023: Kanye West Not Running in 2024
In October 2023, a legal representative for Kanye West announced that he would not be a candidate for any office in the 2024 election, contradicting his previous statements.
November 22, 2023: "Vultures" Release
On November 22, 2023, Kanye West and Ty Dolla Sign dropped "Vultures," the lead single from their collaborative album of the same name. The track features Bump J.
November 23, 2023: "Vultures" (Remix) Release
The day after the initial release, a remix of "Vultures" featuring Lil Durk alongside Bump J was released on November 23, 2023.
December 2023: Kanye West Apologizes for Antisemitic Remarks
In December 2023, Kanye West issued a written apology on Instagram for his previous antisemitic statements, weeks before the planned release of his new album.
December 2023: "Vultures Rave" Performances
Kanye West and Ty Dolla Sign hosted "Vultures Rave" performances in Miami and Las Vegas in December 2023 as part of the promotional efforts for their upcoming album, "Vultures."
January 2024: Kanye West Co-Signs 4Batz
In January 2024, Kanye West publicly endorsed rapper 4Batz, referring to him as his favorite new artist.
January 23, 2024: "Vultures" Trailer Release and Trilogy Announcement
Kanye West, using a trailer directed by Jon Rafman, revealed on January 23, 2024, that "Vultures" would be a trilogy of albums. The release dates were set for February 9, March 6, and April 5, 2024.
February 8, 2024: "Vultures" (Havoc Remix) Release
Kanye West and Ty Dolla Sign released a third version of their single "Vultures" on February 8, 2024. This remix was produced by Mobb Deep's Havoc.
February 9, 2024: "Talking / Once Again" and "Vultures Pack" Release
On February 9, 2024, Kanye West released "Talking / Once Again," the second single from the first volume of the "Vultures" trilogy. The track features his daughter, North West. A compilation pack titled "Vultures Pack", including three versions of the title track, was also released on this day.
February 10, 2024: "Vultures 1" Release and Chart Success
Following a listening party at UBS Arena, the first installment of "Vultures," titled "Vultures 1," was officially released on February 10, 2024. The album debuted at the top spot on the Billboard 200, marking Kanye West's eleventh consecutive number one album and Ty Dolla Sign's first.
April 5, 2024: "Vultures" Volume 3 Release (Expected)
As announced in the trailer released on January 23, 2024, the third volume of Kanye West and Ty Dolla Sign's "Vultures" trilogy is expected to drop on April 5, 2024.
2024: Release of "Vultures 1"
Kanye West and Ty Dolla Sign released their collaborative album, "Vultures 1," in 2024.