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, now known as Ye, is a highly influential American rapper, singer, and record producer celebrated for his innovative musical style and often controversial public persona. He gained prominence as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, contributing to significant albums like Jay-Z's 'The Blueprint' before launching his own successful recording career. His debut album, 'The College Dropout' (2004), garnered critical acclaim and featured the chart-topping single "Slow Jamz". He went on to have multiple number-one hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including "Gold Digger," "Stronger," "E.T.," and "Carnival," solidifying his impact on popular music.

Sections (6)

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

2002: Complex Names Graduation the Best Album

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

February 2004: Release of The College Dropout

In February 2004, Kanye West released his debut album, "The College Dropout", which reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and received critical acclaim. His single "Through the Wire" peaked at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and his second single, "Slow Jamz" became a No. 1 hit.

Loading Video...

2005: Time's 100 Most Influential People

In 2005, Time Magazine named Kanye West one of the 100 most influential people in the world.

September 2007: Graduation Album Release

In September 2007, Kanye West's third studio album, "Graduation", was released, debuting at number one on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart and selling 957,000 copies in its first week, continuing his streak of critical and commercial successes. The album's lead single, "Stronger", became his third number-one hit.

Loading Video...

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.

November 2010: Release of My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy

In November 2010, Kanye West's fifth studio album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, was released. The album was met with widespread acclaim and seen as a comeback for West. It adopted a maximalist sound, a stark contrast to his previous minimalist work, and explored themes of celebrity and excess.

2012: Complex Names Graduation the Best Album

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

2013: Yeezus Critically Acclaimed

According to Metacritic, Kanye West's album Yeezus was the most critically acclaimed album of 2013.

2014: Named Third Most Influential Artist by NME

In 2014, NME (New Musical Express) named Kanye West the third most influential artist in music.

May 2015: Awarded Honorary Doctorate

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: Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award

In 2015, Kanye West became the third rap act to win the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.

2015: Time's 100 Most Influential People

In 2015, Time Magazine named Kanye West one of the 100 most influential people in the world for the second time.

2016: Conviction Expunged

In 2016, Kanye West's appeal to have his misdemeanor battery conviction from 2014 expunged from his criminal record was granted by a judge.

October 25, 2019: Release of Jesus Is King

On October 25, 2019, Kanye West released his album Jesus Is King. It became the first to ever top the Billboard 200, Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, Top Rap Albums, Top Christian Albums and Top Gospel Albums at the same time.