Kanye West's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Kanye West. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Kanye West, also known as Ye, is a highly influential American rapper, singer, and record producer recognized for his significant impact on hip-hop. Celebrated for his innovative and evolving musical style, he is often considered one of the greatest rappers ever. However, West's artistic achievements are frequently juxtaposed with his controversial public image and often polarizing commentary on cultural and political issues.

Sections (6)

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

2002: Complex names Graduation the best album released

Complex named Kanye West's "Graduation" the best album released between 2002 and 2012

February 2004: 'The College Dropout' Released

In February 2004, 'The College Dropout' was officially released, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard 200. The single "Through the Wire" peaked at No. 15, and "Slow Jamz" became a No. 1 hit.

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2005: Late Registration Success

By the end of 2005, Kanye West's album 'Late Registration' had sold over 2.3 million units in the United States. It was also considered the only successful major album release of the fall season due to declining CD sales.

2005: "Gold Digger" tops the charts

In 2005, Kanye West's single "Gold Digger" topped the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking another achievement in his music career.

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2005: Time Magazine names Kanye one of the most influential people

In 2005, Time magazine recognized Kanye West as one of the 100 most influential people in the world.

September 2007: Graduation Album Release

In September 2007, Kanye West released his third studio album, 'Graduation', which debuted at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart, selling 957,000 copies in its first week. The album's lead single, "Stronger", became his third number-one hit.

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2007: "Stronger" hits number one

In 2007, Kanye West's single "Stronger" reached the number one spot on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying his success in the music industry.

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2008: First Solo Artist with Album of the Year Nominations

In 2008, Kanye West became the first solo artist to have his first three albums receive nominations for Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards, marking a significant achievement in his career.

November 2010: Release of My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy

In November 2010, Kanye West released his fifth studio album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, to widespread critical acclaim. Many critics considered it his best work and a solid comeback. The album featured international hits such as "All of the Lights", as well as Billboard hits like "Power", "Monster", and "Runaway".

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2011: "E.T." tops Billboard

In 2011, Kanye West was a featured artist on the song "E.T.", which reached the number one spot on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

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2012: Complex names Graduation the best album released

Complex named Kanye West's "Graduation" the best album released between 2002 and 2012

2014: Named Third Most Influential Artist in Music by NME

In 2014, NME named Kanye West the third most influential artist in music, recognizing his significant impact on the industry.

May 2015: Honorary Doctorate from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago

In May 2015, Kanye West was awarded an honorary doctorate by the School of the Art Institute of Chicago for his contributions to music, fashion, and popular culture.

2015: Winner of the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award

In 2015, Kanye West became the third rap act to win the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, recognizing his impact and contributions to music videos.

2015: Time Magazine includes Kanye in the 100 most influential list again.

In 2015, Time magazine again named Kanye West as one of the 100 most influential people in the world, solidifying his continued impact.

2016: Conviction Expunged from Criminal Record

In 2016, Kanye West's conviction related to the 2014 altercation with a paparazzo was expunged from his criminal record following an appeal.

2020: Rolling Stone includes several of West's albums on the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list

In 2020, Rolling Stone included 'The College Dropout', 'Late Registration', 'Graduation', '808s & Heartbreak', and 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy' on its 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list.

2020: Albums Included on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums List

In 2020, Rolling Stone included Kanye West's first six solo studio albums on its list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, recognizing their critical acclaim and cultural impact.