Full History Of Kanye West In Timeline From 1977

June 8, 1977: Birth of Kanye West

Kanye Omari West was born on June 8, 1977, in Atlanta, Georgia.

1986: Release of "Move Your Body"

Marshall Jefferson released the house track "Move Your Body" in 1986, which would later become the subject of a copyright infringement lawsuit against Kanye West.

1996: First Official Production Credits

At age nineteen, Kanye West received his first official production credits for eight tracks on Grav's debut album, "Down to Earth", in 1996.

1997: Begins Art Studies

In 1997, Kanye West received a scholarship to attend the American Academy of Art in Chicago and began taking painting classes. He later transferred to Chicago State University to study English.

1998: Signs with Hip Hop Since 1978

In 1998, Kanye West became the first producer signed to the management-production company Hip Hop Since 1978.

1998: Inspiration for Late Registration

In 1998, the release of Portishead's live album "Roseland NYC Live" with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra inspired Kanye West to incorporate string arrangements into his hip-hop production, influencing his second album, "Late Registration".

1999: Release of "World Record Holders" and Production on "Chyna Doll"

In 1999, Kanye West's group, the Go-Getters, released their only studio album "World Record Holders". West also produced a track on Foxy Brown's album "Chyna Doll".

2000: Begins Producing for Roc-A-Fella Records

In 2000, Kanye West started working as an in-house producer for Roc-A-Fella Records.

2001: Kanye West Co-Produces Jay-Z's "The Blueprint"

In 2001, Kanye West co-produced Jay-Z's critically acclaimed album "The Blueprint", significantly contributing to the revitalization of Jay-Z's career.

2001: Produces for Roc-A-Fella Artists and Others

In 2001, Kanye West produced songs for various artists on Roc-A-Fella Records and other labels, while also facing challenges in securing his own record deal as a rapper.

December 2002: Car Accident, "Through the Wire", and "The College Dropout" Announcement

Following a car accident in 2002, Kanye West recorded "Through the Wire" with his jaw wired shut. He also announced his debut album, "The College Dropout", with its theme of independent decision-making.

2002: Critical Acclaim for Albums

Between 2002 and 2012, Kanye West's albums received significant critical acclaim, with "The College Dropout" named the best album of the 2000s by Entertainment Weekly and "Graduation" named the best album released between 2002 and 2012 by Complex.

2002: Relationship with Alexis Phifer Begins

Kanye West began his on-and-off relationship with designer Alexis Phifer in 2002.

August 2003: The College Dropout Initial Release Date

In August 2003, Kanye West's debut album, "The College Dropout," was initially slated for release. However, it was leaked prematurely, leading West to use the opportunity to revise and refine the album.

2003: Kanye West Foundation Founded

Kanye West and his mother founded the Kanye West Foundation in Chicago in 2003 to combat illiteracy and school dropout rates.

February 2004: The College Dropout Release and Success

In February 2004, Kanye West's debut album, "The College Dropout," was officially released after several delays. It reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200, and its singles, "Through the Wire" and "Slow Jamz," achieved considerable chart success, marking a significant milestone in West's career.

2004: GOOD Music Founded

Kanye West founded GOOD Music in 2004 in conjunction with Sony BMG. The label launched with artists such as John Legend and Common.

2004: Release of "The College Dropout"

Kanye West released his debut studio album, "The College Dropout", in 2004. The album received critical acclaim and featured the hit single "Slow Jamz".

2005: Kanye West Criticizes George Bush Over Hurricane Katrina Response

In 2005, Kanye West publicly criticized George Bush's response to Hurricane Katrina, stating that the president "doesn't care about black people."

2005: Late Registration Release and Commercial Success

In 2005, Kanye West released his second album, "Late Registration," which sold over 2.3 million units in the United States. The album was a commercial success, and was noted by industry observers as one of the only major successful releases of the fall season.

2005: Release of "Late Registration" and "Gold Digger"

In 2005, Kanye West released his second studio album, "Late Registration", which debuted at the top of the Billboard 200. The album included the hit single, "Gold Digger".

2005: Time's 100 Most Influential People

In 2005, Kanye West was named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people.

2005: Cameo in "State Property 2"

Kanye West made a cameo appearance in the film "State Property 2" in 2005.

2005: Hurricane Katrina Benefit

Kanye West participated in a Hurricane Katrina benefit concert in 2005.

August 2006: Engagement to Alexis Phifer

Kanye West and Alexis Phifer got engaged in August 2006 after dating on and off for four years.

November 7, 2006: Apology for MTV Europe Music Awards Outburst

On November 7, 2006, Kanye West publicly apologized for his outburst at the 2006 MTV Europe Music Awards during a U2 concert in Brisbane, where he was the supporting act.

December 2006: Lawsuit by Evel Knievel

In December 2006, Robert "Evel" Knievel filed a lawsuit against Kanye West for trademark infringement related to his "Touch the Sky" music video, where West portrayed a character named "Evel Kanyevel". Knievel claimed the video damaged 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: Clothing Line Launch

Kanye West launched his own clothing line in the spring of 2006.

January 2007: First Sneaker Collaboration Release

Kanye West's first sneaker collaboration, a special-edition Bapesta with A Bathing Ape, was released in January 2007.

September 2007: Graduation Release and Sales Competition

In September 2007, Kanye West released his third studio album, "Graduation," which outsold 50 Cent's "Curtis" in a highly publicized sales competition. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200.

September 2007: Saturday Night Live Spoof

In September 2007, Kanye West spoofed his MTV Europe Music Awards outburst on the 33rd-season premiere of Saturday Night Live.

November 2007: Loss of Mother and End of Engagement

In November 2007, Kanye West experienced significant personal challenges, including the death of his mother, Donda West, and the end of his engagement to Alexis Phifer.

November 2007: Settlement with Evel Knievel

In November 2007, shortly before his death, Evel Knievel settled his lawsuit with Kanye West amicably after West visited him.

2007: Partnership with Strong American Schools

In 2007, the Kanye West Foundation partnered with Strong American Schools to promote education.

2007: Appearance on "Entourage"

Kanye West made a cameo appearance on the TV show "Entourage" in 2007.

2007: Release of "Graduation" and "Stronger"

Kanye West released his third studio album, "Graduation", in 2007. It became his most commercially successful album to date and featured the hit single "Stronger".

August 2008: Fatburger Franchise Plans

In August 2008, Kanye West revealed plans to open 10 Fatburger restaurants in Chicago.

September 2008: First Fatburger Opens

Kanye West opened his first Fatburger restaurant in Orland Park, Chicago, in September 2008.

November 2008: 808s & Heartbreak Release

In November 2008, Kanye West released his fourth album, "808s & Heartbreak," which featured a distinctive production style using Auto-Tune. Although initially met with mixed reactions, the album has had a notable impact on hip-hop music.

2008: Digital Success and Streaming Milestones

Between 2008 and 2018, Kanye West achieved significant digital success, including being the sixth most streamed artist on Spotify.

2008: Foundation Renamed

Following his mother's death in 2008, the Kanye West Foundation was renamed The Dr. Donda West Foundation.

2008: Grammy Nominations and Recognition

In 2008, Kanye West achieved the distinction of being the first solo artist to have his first three albums nominated for Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards.

2008: Breakup with Phifer, Relationship with Amber Rose Begins

In 2008, Kanye West and Alexis Phifer ended their 18-month engagement, stating they remained friends. West then began dating model Amber Rose.

2008: Expresses Spiritual Beliefs

In 2008, Kanye West described himself as a "vessel" chosen by God, indicating his spiritual beliefs.

2008: Glow in the Dark Tour

In 2008, following personal losses, Kanye West embarked on the "Glow in the Dark Tour".

2008: Cameo in "The Love Guru"

Kanye West appeared in the film "The Love Guru" in 2008.

January 2009: Second Fatburger Opens

In January 2009, Kanye West's second Fatburger location opened.

January 2009: Louis Vuitton Shoe Line Introduction

West introduced his shoe line designed for Louis Vuitton at Paris Fashion Week in January 2009.

2009: States Belief in God but Not Religion

In 2009, Kanye West expressed his belief in God but stated he didn't feel connected to any specific religion.

2009: MTV Video Music Awards Incident

In 2009, Kanye West interrupted Taylor Swift's acceptance speech at the MTV Video Music Awards, leading to widespread criticism and controversy.

2009: Fendi Internship

Kanye West interned at Fendi in Rome in the fall of 2009, contributing ideas to their men's collection.

2009: "We Were Once a Fairytale"

Kanye West starred in the short film "We Were Once a Fairytale" in 2009.

November 2010: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy Release

In November 2010, Kanye West released his fifth studio album, "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy," which received widespread critical acclaim and is considered by many to be his best work.

November 2010: Comments on 2009 MTV Incident

In November 2010, Kanye West revisited the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards incident, seemingly retracting his previous apologies and describing his actions as "selfless".

December 2010: GOOD Fridays Concludes

In December 2010, Kanye West concluded his "GOOD Fridays" music program, which offered free downloads of unreleased songs from August to December 2010.

2010: Kanye West Apologizes to George Bush

Kanye West apologized in 2010 for his 2005 comment about George Bush, admitting he lacked justification for calling him racist.

2010: "Runaway" Film

Kanye West wrote, directed, and starred in the short film "Runaway" in 2010.

2010: Breakup with Amber Rose

Kanye West's relationship with Amber Rose ended in mid-2010. Following the breakup, Rose accused West of "bullying" and "slut-shaming" her during their relationship.

March 2011: Silk Scarves Collaboration

In March 2011, West collaborated with M/M Paris on a series of silk scarves featuring artwork from My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.

August 2011: Watch the Throne Release

In August 2011, Kanye West and Jay-Z released their collaborative album, "Watch the Throne," using a unique digital-first release strategy.

October 2011: Watch the Throne Tour Begins

In October 2011, Kanye West and Jay-Z kicked off their co-headlining "Watch the Throne Tour."

October 2011: Women's Fashion Label Premiere

Kanye West premiered his women's fashion label at Paris Fashion Week in October 2011.

2011: Release of "Watch the Throne"

In 2011, Kanye West and Jay-Z released their collaborative album, "Watch the Throne".

2011: Featured on "E.T."

In 2011, Kanye West was featured on Katy Perry's hit single, "E.T.".

2011: Fatburger Closure

In 2011, Kanye West's Orland Park Fatburger location closed due to poor sales.

2011: Foundation Ceases Operations

The Dr. Donda West Foundation ceased operations in 2011.

January 2012: Donda Founded

Kanye West founded the creative content company Donda in January 2012, named after his late mother.

March 2012: Second Fashion Line Premiere

West's second fashion line premiered at Paris Fashion Week in March 2012, receiving better reviews than his debut show.

April 2012: Kanye West and Kim Kardashian Begin Dating

Kanye West and Kim Kardashian began dating in April 2012 after a long-standing friendship.

June 2012: Watch the Throne Tour Ends and Cruel Summer Released

In June 2012, the "Watch the Throne Tour" concluded. In the same year, Kanye West released the compilation album "Cruel Summer," featuring artists from his GOOD Music label.

September 2012: Donation to Obama Campaign

In September 2012, Kanye West donated to Barack Obama's re-election campaign.

2012: Critical Acclaim for Albums

By 2012, several of Kanye West's albums had garnered substantial critical acclaim and recognition for their innovation and impact.

2012: "Cruel Summer" Film

Kanye West co-directed the short film "Cruel Summer," which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2012.

2012: Hurricane Sandy Benefit

Kanye West performed at a Hurricane Sandy benefit concert in 2012.

2012: Voice Acting on "The Cleveland Show"

Kanye West provided voice acting for the character "Kenny West" on "The Cleveland Show" from 2010 to 2012.

May 2013: Interest in Architecture

In May 2013, Kanye West expressed interest in expanding into architecture and product design.

June 2013: Birth of North West

North West, the first child of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, was born in June 2013.

June 18, 2013: Yeezus Release

On June 18, 2013, Kanye West released his sixth studio album, "Yeezus," which received positive reviews but had lower opening week sales than his previous solo albums.

September 2013: Yeezus Tour Announcement

In September 2013, Kanye West announced his first solo tour in five years, the Yeezus Tour, to support his album "Yeezus". Kendrick Lamar was the supporting act.

October 2013: Kanye West and Kim Kardashian Get Engaged

Kanye West and Kim Kardashian got engaged in October 2013.

November 2013: Start of New Album Work

In November 2013, Kanye West began working on his next studio album, with producers Rick Rubin and Q-Tip, initially aiming for a mid-2014 release.

November 2013: Architectural Goals

Kanye West presented his architectural goals during a visit to Harvard Graduate School of Design in November 2013.

December 3, 2013: Adidas Collaboration Confirmation

Adidas officially confirmed a shoe collaboration deal with Kanye West on December 3, 2013, leading to the release of the Adidas Yeezy Boosts.

2013: Kanye West Voices Anti-Abortion Stance

In 2013, Kanye West expressed his opposition to abortion.

2013: Critical Acclaim for Yeezus

In 2013, Kanye West's album "Yeezus" was recognized as the most critically acclaimed album of the year according to Metacritic.

2013: Donda's House Founded

Kanye West co-founded Donda's House, Inc. in 2013 to support at-risk youth in Chicago.

2013: Cameo in "Anchorman 2"

Kanye West made a cameo appearance in "Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues" in 2013.

May 2014: Kanye West and Kim Kardashian's Wedding

Kanye West and Kim Kardashian married in a highly publicized ceremony in Florence, Italy in May 2014.

October 2014: Donation to Democratic National Committee

In October 2014, Kanye West donated to the Democratic National Committee.

2014: Identifies as Christian

During a concert in 2014, Kanye West publicly identified as a Christian.

2014: Yeezus II Album Announcement

In 2014, Kanye West initially announced a new album called "Yeezus II," planned for release that year.

2014: Critical Acclaim and Influence

In 2014, Kanye West was recognized as a highly influential artist, with NME ranking him the third most influential in music.

2014: Paparazzo Altercation and Probation

In 2014, Kanye West was sentenced to two years' probation, anger management sessions, and community service after an altercation with a paparazzo at Los Angeles Airport.

March 2015: So Help Me God Album Announcement

In March 2015, Kanye West announced the tentative title of his new album, "So Help Me God," which was initially titled "Yeezus II."

March 2015: Co-owner of Tidal

In March 2015, Kanye West became a co-owner of the music streaming service Tidal.

April 2015: North West's Baptism

In April 2015, North West was baptized in the Armenian Apostolic Church in Jerusalem.

May 2015: Honorary Doctorate

In May 2015, Kanye West received an honorary doctorate from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, recognizing his influence on music, fashion, and popular culture.

August 2015: Donation to Clinton Campaign

In August 2015, Kanye West donated to Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign.

November 2015: Pusha T appointed President of GOOD Music

In November 2015, Kanye West appointed Pusha T as the new president of his record label, GOOD Music.

December 2015: Birth of Saint West

Saint West, the second child of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, was born in December 2015.

2015: Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award

In 2015, Kanye West received the prestigious Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, further solidifying his impact on music and culture.

2015: Settlement with Paparazzo

Kanye West settled a civil lawsuit with the paparazzo involved in the 2014 Los Angeles Airport altercation.

2015: Yeezy Clothing Line Unveiling

Kanye West unveiled his Yeezy clothing line in collaboration with Adidas in 2015.

2015: Time's 100 Most Influential People (Again)

Kanye West was again named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in 2015.

January 2016: Swish Album and New Songs

In January 2016, Kanye West announced the release date of his album "Swish" as February 11, and released the songs "Real Friends" and a snippet of "No More Parties in LA."

January 26, 2016: Album Title Change to Waves

Kanye West renamed his upcoming album from "Swish" to "Waves" on January 26, 2016.

February 14, 2016: The Life of Pablo Release

On February 14, 2016, Kanye West released "The Life of Pablo" exclusively on Tidal after premiering it at Madison Square Garden. He continued to modify the album post-release, calling it a "living breathing changing creative expression."

February 2016: Turbo Grafx 16 Album Announcement

In February 2016, Kanye West announced plans for a summer album tentatively titled "Turbo Grafx 16," inspired by the video game console.

June 2016: Adidas Contract Extension

Adidas and Kanye West expanded their Yeezy collaboration with a new long-term contract in June 2016.

June 2016: "Champions" Release and "Famous" Video

In June 2016, Kanye West released "Champions" from the upcoming GOOD Music album "Cruel Winter" and the controversial video for "Famous."

August 2016: Saint Pablo Tour Begins

The Saint Pablo Tour, supporting "The Life of Pablo," began in August 2016, featuring a unique mobile stage.

November 19, 2016: Hospitalization for Psychosis

On November 19, 2016, Kanye West was hospitalized for a temporary psychosis reportedly brought on by sleep deprivation and dehydration after abruptly ending a concert. This incident led to the cancellation of 21 concerts. Though formally undiagnosed, it was speculated that his wife's robbery in Paris might have contributed to his paranoia.

November 21, 2016: Saint Pablo Tour Cancellation and Hospitalization

On November 21, 2016, Kanye West cancelled the remaining Saint Pablo Tour dates and was hospitalized for psychiatric observation due to temporary psychosis caused by sleep deprivation and dehydration.

December 2016: Meeting with Donald Trump

Kanye West met with President-elect Donald Trump in December 2016 to discuss social issues, and later stated he would have voted for Trump.

2016: Conviction Expunged

A judge granted Kanye West's appeal to have his misdemeanor battery conviction from the 2014 paparazzo incident expunged from his record.

2016: Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis and Breakdown

Kanye West was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2016, the same year he experienced a nervous breakdown.

February 2017: Distancing from Trump

In February 2017, Kanye West deleted his tweets supporting Trump, seemingly distancing himself from the president's policies.

May 2017: Recording in Wyoming

In May 2017, Kanye West began recording new music in Jackson Hole, Wyoming with various collaborators.

January 2018: Birth of Chicago West

Chicago West, the third child of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, was born via surrogate in January 2018.

April 2018: New Albums, Book, and Production Announcements

In April 2018, Kanye West announced two new albums, a solo album and "Kids See Ghosts" with Kid Cudi, a philosophy book "Break the Simulation," and production work for Pusha T, Teyana Taylor, and Nas.

April 2018: Reiterates Support for Trump

Kanye West reiterated his support for Donald Trump in April 2018.

May 2018: Yeezy Home Founded

Kanye West announced the launch of his architecture firm, Yeezy Home, in May 2018.

June 2018: Multiple Album Releases

In June 2018, Kanye West released his solo album "Ye," the collaborative album "Kids See Ghosts" with Kid Cudi, and completed production on Nas' "Nasir" and Teyana Taylor's "K.T.S.E."

June 2018: Yeezy Home Collaboration

In June 2018, the first Yeezy Home collaboration was announced, focusing on affordable housing.

September 2018: Yandhi and Good Ass Job Announcements, Name Change

In September 2018, Kanye West announced his album "Yandhi," a collaboration with Chance the Rapper titled "Good Ass Job," and his stage name change to "Ye."

September 2018: Kanye West Announces Move to Chicago

Kanye West announced in September 2018 that he planned to move back to Chicago permanently to establish his Yeezy headquarters there, a move which ultimately did not occur.

September 2018: Half Beast, LLC Founded

Kanye West founded the film production company Half Beast, LLC in September 2018.

October 2018: Donation to Amara Enyia

Kanye West donated to Amara Enyia's campaign for Chicago mayor in October 2018.

2018: Digital Success and Streaming Milestones

By 2018, Kanye West reached significant streaming milestones on Spotify, reflecting his continued popularity.

2018: Opioid Addiction and Mental Health Struggles

In 2018, Kanye West revealed his struggles with opioid addiction following liposuction, as well as his battles with depression and anxiety.

2018: Kanye West First Mentions Desire for Name Change

Kanye West first publicly expressed his desire to change his name to "Ye" in 2018, explaining its biblical significance.

January 6, 2019: Sunday Service Begins

Kanye West launched his weekly "Sunday Service" events on January 6, 2019, featuring gospel-inspired versions of his and others' songs.

January 2019: Donation to Roden Crater

Kanye West donated $10 million to the completion of the Roden Crater project in January 2019.

January 2019: Coachella Cancellation

Kanye West withdrew from headlining Coachella 2019 in January due to disagreements over stage design.

May 2019: Birth of Psalm West

Psalm West, the fourth child of Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, was born via surrogate in May 2019.

September 2019: Kim Kardashian Comments on West's Faith

Kim Kardashian described Kanye West's renewed faith and being "born again" in September 2019.

October 2019: West Discusses His Faith Journey

In October 2019, Kanye West talked about his past struggles with serving "multiple gods" like ego, money, and fame and how he now loves Jesus Christ and Christianity.

October 25, 2019: Jesus Is King Release

On October 25, 2019, Kanye West released "Jesus Is King," which topped multiple Billboard charts simultaneously, including gospel, Christian, rap, R&B/Hip-Hop, and the Billboard 200.

November 2019: Kanye West Announces 2024 Presidential Bid

In November 2019, Kanye West first announced his intention to run for president in the 2024 election.

December 25, 2019: Jesus Is Born Release

Kanye West and Sunday Service released "Jesus Is Born" on December 25, 2019, a 19-song album featuring reworked versions of older West songs.

2019: Acceptance and Questioning of Bipolar Diagnosis

By 2019, Kanye West reportedly accepted his bipolar diagnosis but later questioned its accuracy.

June 2020: Donations to Victims of Police Brutality

In June 2020, Kanye West donated $2 million to the families of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor.

June 30, 2020: "Wash Us in the Blood" Release

On June 30, 2020, Kanye West released the single "Wash Us in the Blood," featuring Travis Scott, along with its music video. This was initially planned as the lead single from his album Donda.

July 4, 2020: Presidential Run Announcement

Kanye West announced his candidacy for the 2020 US presidential election on July 4, 2020.

July 15, 2020: Kanye West Files Paperwork for Presidential Run

On July 15, 2020, Kanye West officially filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission to run for president under the "BDY" Party, amid speculation about his campaign's seriousness and potential withdrawal.

July 2020: Kanye West Reveals Past Consideration of Abortion

During a campaign rally in July 2020, Kanye West revealed he and Kim Kardashian considered abortion during her first pregnancy but that he now holds anti-abortion views.

July 2020: Kanye West Holds First Presidential Rally

In July 2020, Kanye West held his first presidential campaign rally, outlining his platform based on a consistent life ethic. He advocated for various issues including environmentalism, arts support, religious organizations, and a "America First" diplomatic approach. He also admitted to lacking knowledge on certain policy areas.

July 2020: Marital Disputes and Divorce Discussions Emerge

In July 2020, Kanye West publicly acknowledged the possibility of Kim Kardashian ending their marriage due to his anti-abortion views. He also claimed on Twitter that he had been trying to divorce her and accused the Kardashian family of trying to "lock him up".

September 2020: Music Release Halt Announcement

Kanye West declared in September 2020 that he would cease releasing music until his contracts with Sony and Universal concluded.

November 4, 2020: Kanye West Concedes Presidential Election

Kanye West conceded the 2020 presidential election on November 4, 2020, after receiving a small percentage of the vote in the states where he had ballot access.

2020: Unsuccessful Presidential Campaign

In 2020, Kanye West launched an unsuccessful independent presidential campaign.

2020: Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time

In 2020, Kanye West's first six solo albums were included in Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list. He was also named one of the 100 Greatest Songwriters of All Time.

2020: Inclusion in Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time

In 2020, Kanye West's first six solo studio albums were included in Rolling Stone's list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

January 4, 2021: Alleged Pressure on Georgia Election Worker

On January 4, 2021, a publicist reportedly linked to Kanye West allegedly pressured a Georgia election worker to confess to false claims of election tampering, in an effort to support Donald Trump's allegations of election interference.

January 2021: Divorce Proceedings Begin

In January 2021, news sources reported that Kanye West and Kim Kardashian were in divorce discussions. Kim Kardashian officially filed for divorce a month later, citing "irreconcilable differences".

May 2021: Yeezy Gap Deal

Kanye West signed a 10-year deal with GAP to create Yeezy Gap in May 2021.

August 2021: Kanye West Files to Legally Change Name to "Ye"

In August 2021, Kanye West filed a request to legally change his name to "Ye."

August 29, 2021: Donda Release

After multiple delays and listening parties held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium throughout the summer, Kanye West's album Donda was released on August 29, 2021. West later claimed its release was premature and unauthorized.

October 2021: Kanye West's Name Change Approved

A Los Angeles court approved Kanye West's request to change his legal name to "Ye" in October 2021.

October 2021: Kanye West Sells Wyoming Ranch

Kanye West began the process of selling his Wyoming ranch in October 2021.

November 14, 2021: Donda Deluxe Edition Release

A deluxe edition of Donda, featuring five new songs, was released on November 14, 2021.

December 2021: Unreported Campaign Finances Revealed

In December 2021, reports emerged that Kanye West's 2020 presidential campaign received substantial unreported financial support from a network of Republican operatives, raising concerns about transparency and campaign finance regulations.

2021: "Jeen-Yuhs" Documentary Announced

A documentary about Kanye West's life, titled "Jeen-Yuhs," was announced in 2021.

2021: Kanye West's Peak Net Worth

In 2021, Kanye West's net worth reached a high of $1.8 billion.

January 5, 2022: Coachella Headliner Announcement

On January 5, 2022, Kanye West was announced as a headliner for the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.

January 2022: Relationship with Julia Fox and Continued Disputes with Kim Kardashian

In January 2022, Kanye West began dating actress Julia Fox. During this time, he publicly expressed his desire to reconcile with Kim Kardashian and criticized her then-boyfriend, Pete Davidson. West's behavior towards Kardashian and Davidson was widely criticized as harassment and abuse, leading to him being dropped as a performer from the 64th Annual Grammy Awards. Less than two months later, Fox confirmed that she and West had broken up, though they remained on good terms.

Kanye West was sued for copyright infringement for allegedly using an unauthorized sample of Marshall Jefferson's "Move Your Body" in his song "Flowers".

July 2022: Lawsuit by Fashion Rental Company

Kanye West faced a lawsuit from fashion rental company the David Casavant Archive for unpaid fees and unreturned clothing items, totaling $416,000.

September 2022: Yeezy Gap Deal Termination

Kanye West terminated the Yeezy Gap deal in September 2022.

October 2022: Adidas Partnership Termination

Adidas ended its partnership with Kanye West in October 2022 due to his antisemitic remarks.

October 2022: Antisemitic Statements and Loss of Partnerships

In October 2022, Kanye West made a series of antisemitic statements, leading to widespread condemnation and the loss of numerous sponsorships and partnerships.

October 2022: Agreement to Acquire Parler

In October 2022, Kanye West reached an agreement to acquire the social network Parler.

October 2022: Kanye West's Net Worth Drops Due to Loss of Partnerships

Kanye West's net worth significantly decreased in October 2022, largely due to the termination of his partnership with Adidas following his antisemitic statements.

November 2022: Divorce Finalized

In November 2022, Kanye West and Kim Kardashian's divorce was finalized. West was ordered to pay $200,000 in monthly child support and cover half of their children's medical, educational, and security expenses.

November 2022: Kanye West Officially Launches 2024 Campaign

Kanye West officially launched his 2024 presidential campaign in November 2022, including claiming to have asked Donald Trump to be his running mate.

December 2022: "Someday We'll All Be Free" Release

Following a period of controversy, Kanye West released the song "Someday We'll All Be Free" on Instagram in December 2022.

December 2022: Possible Autism Diagnosis

In December 2022, Kanye West suggested that he may be autistic.

2022: Kanye West's Comments on Slavery

In 2022, Kanye West made controversial remarks about the history of slavery, later apologizing for the comments.

2022: Kanye West's Antisemitic Statements Lead to Loss of Partnerships

In late 2022, Kanye West made several antisemitic statements, causing many brands to end their partnerships with him.

2022: "Jeen-Yuhs" Released

The documentary "Jeen-Yuhs" was released in 2022.

January 2023: Unofficial Marriage to Bianca Censori and Potential Visa Issues

In January 2023, Kanye West reportedly married Bianca Censori, an architect working for his Yeezy brand, in a private ceremony. The marriage was not legally binding. West's subsequent trips to visit Censori's family in Australia raised concerns about potential visa issues due to his past antisemitic remarks.

July 2023: Kanye West's Twitter Ban Reversed

In July 2023, Twitter lifted Kanye West's ban after he reportedly gave assurances about not posting harmful content.

August 25, 2023: New Album Recording Reported

Reports surfaced on August 25, 2023, indicating that Kanye West was working on his eleventh studio album, with sources suggesting a release was imminent.

October 2023: Kanye West Withdraws from 2024 Race

In October 2023, Kanye West's attorney stated that he was no longer a candidate for the 2024 presidential election.

November 22, 2023: "Vultures" Single Release

The single "Vultures," featuring Bump J, and the lead single for the collaborative album with Ty Dolla Sign, was released on November 22, 2023.

December 2023: Kanye West Apologizes for Antisemitic Remarks, Makes Further Controversial Claims

In December 2023, Kanye West apologized for his antisemitic statements but then made additional controversial claims in an interview.

January 2024: Dental Procedure and Alleged Start of Nitrous Oxide Addiction

In January 2024, Kanye West underwent a dental procedure involving permanent titanium prosthodontics, which allegedly marked the beginning of his nitrous oxide addiction.

February 10, 2024: Vultures 1 Release

Following a listening party at UBS Arena, the first volume of the Vultures trilogy, Vultures 1, was officially released on February 10, 2024, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200.

June 29, 2024: Visit to Moscow and "Enemy of Ukraine" Label

On June 29, 2024, Kanye West visited Moscow to celebrate fashion designer Gosha Rubchinskiy's birthday. This trip resulted in him being labeled an "enemy of Ukraine".

August 2024: Alleged Nitrous Oxide Addiction

In August 2024, allegations surfaced about Kanye West's addiction to nitrous oxide, supplied by his dentist.

2024: "In Whose Name?" Documentary Announced

A documentary called "In Whose Name?" was announced in 2024, with a planned debut in 2025.

2024: Lawsuits for Wrongful Termination, Sexual Harassment, and Assault

In 2024, Kanye West faced multiple lawsuits. A former assistant sued him for wrongful termination, sexual harassment, and breach of contract. Separately, a former model filed a lawsuit against him for sexual assault and strangulation during a music video set. West denied the allegations.

2024: Releases and Collaborations

In 2024, Kanye West released the singles "Carnival" and the collaborative albums "Vultures 1" and "Vultures 2" with Ty Dolla Sign.

2024: Kanye West's Intended Presidential Run

Kanye West stated his intention to run for president in 2024, although this did not ultimately materialize.

February 2025: Autism Diagnosis Confirmed

Kanye West stated that he received a professional diagnosis of autism in February 2025.

2025: "In Whose Name?" Release Date

The documentary "In Whose Name?" is planned for release in 2025.

History of Kanye West in Timeline