10 Defining Moments in the Life of Kanye West
Kanye West, also known as Ye, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, and fashion designer. He is one of the most influential and acclaimed musicians of the 21st century.
2004-02-10
2004-02-10
Debut Album 'The College Dropout' released
Kanye West released his critically acclaimed debut album 'The College Dropout,' which cemented his status as a major artist in hip-hop.
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music_release
2004-09-01
2004-09-01
Foundation of G.O.O.D. Music
West founded his own record label, G.O.O.D. Music, which has signed numerous successful artists.
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business_venture
2008-11-25
2008-11-25
Release of '808s & Heartbreak'
West released '808s & Heartbreak,' an album that significantly influenced hip-hop and pop music with its use of auto-tune and synth-heavy production.
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music_release
2009-09-13
2009-09-13
VMA incident with Taylor Swift
At the MTV Video Music Awards, West interrupted Taylor Swift's acceptance speech, claiming Beyoncé deserved the award, sparking widespread controversy.
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public_incident
2010-11-22
2010-11-22
Release of 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy'
West released his critically acclaimed fifth studio album, 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,' often cited as one of the greatest albums of all time.
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music_release
2015-02-12
2015-02-12
Yeezy fashion line debut
West debuted his first fashion collection, Yeezy Season 1, in collaboration with Adidas, officially launching his career as a fashion designer.
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fashion_debut
2020-07-04
2020-07-04
Presidential Campaign Announcement
West announced his intention to run for President of the United States in the 2020 election via Twitter.
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political_campaign
2021-08-29
2021-08-29
Album 'Donda' released
West released his tenth studio album, 'Donda,' named after his late mother, after a series of public listening events.
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music_release
2021-10-18
2021-10-18
Name change to Ye
Kanye West legally changed his name to 'Ye'.
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personal_change
2022-10-01
2022-10-01
Controversial statements and brand terminations
West made a series of antisemitic remarks, leading to the termination of his partnerships with Adidas, Balenciaga, and Gap.
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public_incident