West began making beats and rapping in the early 90s in his hometown of Chicago, Illinois, when he formed the rap group Go Getters with Chicago natives GLC and Really Doe. He later gained nationwide popularity through his work in New York, where he began producing tracks for artists such as Jay-Z, Twista, Mase, Talib Kweli and Alicia Keys.
West's style of production often utilizes pitched-up vocal samples, usually from soul songs, with his drums and instruments. The first major label song he produced was The Truth by Beanie Sigel, and his first major release featuring his trademark vocal sampling style was This Can’t Be Life, a track from Jay-Z’s The Dynasty: Roc La Familia. West said he sped up the drum beat of Dr. Dre’s Xxplosive to use as a replacement for his drums on This Can’t Be Life.
West has said that Wu-Tang Clan producer RZA influenced him in his style, and has said on numerous occasions that Wu-Tang rappers Ghostface Killah and Ol’ Dirty Bastard were some of his all-time favorites. Said Kanye West: “Wu-Tang? Me and my friends talk about this all the time… We think Wu-Tang had one of the biggest impacts as far as a movement. From slang to style of dress, skits, the samples. Similar to the [production] style I use, RZA has been doing that.”
In 2004 (after being pushed aside by many record companies who felt he wasn't a marketable hip-hop artist), he managed to release his debut solo album, The College Dropout on Roc-A-Fella Records. The album received critical acclaim, including 10 Grammy nominations and the awards for Album of the Year and Best Rap Album, as well as defining the style for which West would become known: "wordplay" and heavy sampling of the 70s soul and RnB tracks.
Not content to rest on his laurels, West invested two million dollars and hired a string orchestra to help with his latest effort, Late Registration (2005). West collaborated with Jon Brion to help develop the sound of the album, despite his lack of experience in hip hop production. The album received widespread acclaim like its predecessor and again claimed the Best Rap Album award at the Grammys.
West was no stranger to controversy, such as storming out at the 2004 American Music Awards after not receiving Best New Artist, but just days after the release of his second studio album, West began embroiled in a major controversy after going off-script during Hurricane Katrina broadcast, proclaiming "George Bush doesn't care about black people", which Bush claimed was "one the most disgusting moments of my presidency". In January 2006, West posed on the cover of Rolling Stone wearing a crown of thorns, once again attracting controversy.
For his third release, West was keen to produce songs that could be used more effectively when performing in arenas. For Graduation, the third and ultimately final entry into his 'Dropout Bear' series, West drew musical inspiration from The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash. In the lead up to the album he became involved in a friendly rivalry with 50 Cent over which of the two artists' upcoming albums would sell more, as they were both released on the same day. West ultimately sold 957,000 copies in the first week of release, outselling Curtis by a large margin. The albums lead single "Stronger" sampled Daft Punk, and was West's third number one on Billboard 200. Many proclaim West's 'victory' over 50 Cent to be the 'death' of gangster rap as the dominant hip hop subgenre.
Following the death of his mother, Donda West, and the end of his engagement to long term partner Alexis Phifer, West abandoned his initial plan to release a fourth album entitled Good Ass Job, and shocked his fans by releasing 808s and Heartbreak, which was full of autotune singing, extensive use of the TR-808 drum machine, themes of love, loss and loneliness and very little rapping. It received slightly more mixed reviews than his previous efforts, but many critics cite 808s and Heartbreak as the catalyst for a new wave of rappers, most prominently Drake, due to its themes which were uncommon in mainstream hip-hop.
West's grief seemed to lead to a spiral out of control which culminated in him storming on stage at the 2009 VMAs to interrupt Taylor Swift's award acceptance speech to proclaim that Beyoncé deserved the award instead, in a move that is infamous in pop culture and was vilified by the entire world in the aftermath. West disappeared from the public eye following this, and his upcoming tour with Lady Gaga was cancelled. The disgraced West, who was described as a 'jackass' by President Obama, seemed to have much work to do to return to the his former glory, but he was about to embark on what some critics consider to be the best run of his career.
West holed up in Hawaii for a few months and worked tirelessly to produce what many consider to be his magnum opus. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, West's fifth studio album, was released in November 2010 to rave reviews from critics, which solidified his comeback. In stark contrast to his previous effort, which featured a minimalist sound, Dark Fantasy adopts a maximalist philosophy and deals with themes of celebrity and excess. The record included the international hit All of the Lights, and Billboard hits Power, Monster, and Runaway, the latter of which accompanied a 35-minute film of the same name. During this time, West initiated the free music program G.O.O.D. Fridays through his website, offering a free download of previously unreleased songs each Friday of the week, a portion of which were included on the album. Dark Fantasy went on to go platinum in the United States, but its omission as a contender for Album of the Year at the 54th Grammy Awards was viewed as a "snub" by several media outlets.
Following a headlining set at Coachella 2011 that was described by The Hollywood Reporter as "one of greatest hip-hop sets of all time," West released the collaborative album Watch the Throne with Jay-Z. By employing a sales strategy that released the album digitally weeks before its physical counterpart, Watch the Throne became one of the few major label albums in the Internet age to avoid a leak. Niggas in Paris became the record's highest charting single, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100. In 2012, West released the compilation album Cruel Summer, a collection of tracks by artists from West's record label GOOD Music. Cruel Summer produced four singles, two of which charted within the top twenty of the Hot 100: Mercy and Clique. West also directed a film of the same name that premiered at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival in custom pyramid-shaped screening pavilion featuring seven screens.
Sessions for West's sixth solo effort begin to take shape in early 2013 in his own personal loft's living room at a Paris hotel. Determined to "undermine the commercial," he once again brought together close collaborators and attempted to incorporate Chicago drill, dancehall, acid house, and industrial music. Primarily inspired by architecture, West's perfectionist tendencies led him to contact producer Rick Rubin fifteen days shy of its due date to strip down the record's sound in favor of a more minimalist approach. Initial promotion of his sixth album included worldwide video projections of the album's music and live television performances.
Yeezus, West's sixth album, was released June 18, 2013 to rave reviews from critics. It became the rapper's sixth consecutive number one debut. Def Jam issued "Black Skinhead" to radio in July 2013 as the album's lead single. On September 6, 2013, Kanye West announced he would be headlining his first solo tour in five years, to support Yeezus, with fellow American rapper Kendrick Lamar, accompanying him along the way.
In November 2013, West stated that he was working on and recording his next studio album. The album was to be produced by Rick Rubin and Q-Tip.. Kanye released a single entitled "Only One", on December 31, 2014 featuring Paul McCartney, as well as collaborating with McCartney on the Rihanna track " FourFiveSeconds", released in January 2015. West appeared on the SNL 40th Anniversary Special on February 15th 2015 to debut a new song Wolves, featuring Sia Furler and Vic Mensa. Another single, entitled "All Day" was released on March 2, 2015, again featuring McCartney as well as Theophilus London, Allan Kingdom. In June of the same year, Kanye headlined the Glastonbury Festival in the UK, which garnered much outrage including a petition with 135,000 signatures against his appearance, leading to West declaring he was "the greatest living rock star on the planet" towards the end of his set, and the performance receiving a mixed reaction among fans and critics, due to its controversy. In September 2015, West performed {album artist kanye west]808s and Heartbreak in its entirety at the Hollywood Bowl over two nights, which received rave reviews a featured a 60 person orchestra, guests such as Kid Cudi and Mr Hudson, and over 70 dancers. West released "Facts" at the turn of the new year.
West had originally stated that his upcoming album would be called 'So Help Me God' before changing the title to 'SWISH' and announcing that it would be released on February 11th. In January 2016 he released "Real Friends" and "No More Parties in LA", featuring Kendrick Lamar. As well as renaming the album once again to "Waves", West became involved in several twitter controversies in the lead up to the album, including with rapper Wiz Khalifa after he suggested that West had stolen the idea of the wave from other artists and seemingly dissed Kim Kardashian, which later turned out to be a misunderstanding over the use of "KK". West again changed the name of the album just days before it's release, this time to "{album artist=kanye west]The Life of Pablo", and debuted it at Madison Square Garden on February 11, but delayed it's release for a few days. On February 14, West released the album are a performance on SNL. West initially claimed the album was to be a Tidal exclusive, but it was later released on other streaming platforms, although it is yet to receive a physical release. West continued to tinker with the mixing and production of the album even after it was released, and it was updated several times, including the final song "Saint Pablo" in June 2016. West had also made public his plans to release an album in the summer of 2016, entitled "Turbo Grafx 16", based on the 1990s games console, which never surfaced, although he did release a single thought to be from the upcoming G.O.O.D. Music album "Cruel Winter", called Champions. In the same month, a video for "Famous" was released, including nude wax figures of celebrities such as West, Kim Kardashian, Taylor Swift, Donald Trump, Chris Brown, Rihanna, Bill Cosby and George W. Bush.
In August 2016, West embarked on the ambitious Saint Pablo Tour, which included a mobile stage suspended from the ceiling. After the violent robbery of Kim's jewellery in Paris in October, West had to end a show early and postpone shows following it. In the following performances, West cancelled shows early and went on long winded rants against fellow artists such as Jay Z and Beyoncé among others, as well as making controversial political statements including implying his support for Donald Trump. On November 21st 2016, West cancelled the rest of the tour and was hospitalised due to sleep deprivation and extreme dehydration. Following this, West disappeared from social media, and only resurfaced 11 months later with a series of tweets which included many philosophical thoughts and the announcements two albums in June 2018, a solo album which would include 7 tracks on June 1, and a collaboration with Kid Cudi to be released on June 8.
On August 29th, 2021, Kanye released his 10th highly anticipated studio release Donda via GOOD Music and Def Jam Recordings after a series of three listening parties.
Personal life:
West was born in Atlanta, Georgia. When he was three years old (as mentioned in Hey Mama) his parents divorced, and he moved with his mother to Chicago, Illinois. His father, Ray West, was a former Black Panther; one of the first black photojournalists at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution; and is now a Christian counselor. Kanye’s late mother, Dr. Donda West, worked as a Professor of English at Clark Atlanta University, and the Chair of the English Department at Chicago State University before retiring to serve as Kanye’s manager. He was later raised in an upper middle class background, attending Polaris High School in suburban Oak Lawn, Illinois after living in Chicago.
After attending The American Academy of Art, a Chicago art school, West attended Chicago State University but eventually dropped out due to poor grades and to continue working on his music career. While attending school, West produced for local artists, including on rapper Grav’s debut album Down to Earth. He later gained fame by producing hit singles for major hip hop/R&B artists, including Jay-Z, Talib Kweli, Cam’ron, Paul Wall, Common, Mobb Deep, Jermaine Dupri, Scarface, The Game, Alicia Keys, Janet Jackson and John Legend among others. He also “ghost-produced” for his once mentor Deric Angelettie according to his song Last Call and the credits of Nas’ Poppa Was a Playa.
West was married to Kim Kardashian. Together they had four children: daughters named North (*2013) and Chicago (*2018); and sons named Saint (*2015) and Psalm (*2019). In 2021, Kardashian filed for divorce.
In 2020, West launched an unsuccessful independent presidential campaign that primarily advocated for a consistent life ethic. In 2022, he faced backlash and lost a number of sponsors and partnerships—including his collaborations with Adidas, Gap, and Balenciaga—after making antisemitic statements.
Sky High
Kanye West Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Throw your diamonds in the sky
If you feel the vibe (Oh, oh, oh)
Flashing lights, lights, lights (Oh, oh, oh)
I go for mine, I got to shine (Oh, oh, oh)
I'm sky high (Oh, oh, oh)
Throw you hands up
Hustlers, busters, boosters, ho
I go for mine (For mine) , I got to shine
Throw your motherfuckin' hands up
(Get 'em high)
Feels good to be home, baby (yeah)
Feels good to be home
Nigga, I'm G double O-D, good
Rock up in the like a poppin' nigga should be
Never ever was a "shoulda-coulda-woulda" type
I am controllin' what the
People say they like
And no, not the label, this is dream on
(Dream on)
Play my songs so you can witnеss when I'm on
Besides 808s okay, now wait (Okay, now wait)
Whеn you hear my album
It won't be hard to get a date
Yes, , I'm kick drum strummin', hummin'
The product of a suburban stone cold burrow
They be well rounded
Most people don't know though
Hey, it's that in photo (Hell, yeah)
Back home, they don't what I had went
Through to get to you
Yo, everybody, GOOD music up in the party
Paparazzi need not bother nobody
(Body, body, body)
Can I talk my shit again? I'm sky high
I can't believe I'm back
Up in this motherfucker i'm sky high
The Roc is definitely in the buildin'
I'm sky high
GOOD music's definitely in the buildin'
The lyrics of the song "Sky High" by Kanye West (feat Kid Cudi) is all about enjoying the moment of success and the feeling of being on top of the world. Throughout the song, Kanye talks about how he is sky high and how he wants his fans to throw their diamonds in the sky if they are feeling the vibe. He also encourages the listeners to throw their hands up and go for what they want, just like he does in his life. The flashing lights mentioned in the song symbolize the spotlight and how Kanye and Kid Cudi shine in it. The chorus repeats the phrase "I'm sky high" multiple times, emphasizing their level of success.
Kid Cudi's verse in the song complements Kanye's lyrics by describing his approach to music. He talks about his "never-shoulda-coulda-woulda" mentality and how he remains in control of his music. He also mentions that his success is not due to any label backing him, but it's all due to his own hard work. He describes the product of his hard work as "well rounded" and that he wants everyone to witness it, even back home where people doubted his success. The song ends with Kanye repeating the phrase "I'm sky high" and emphasizes that he can't believe he's back in the music industry.
Overall, "Sky High" is a motivational song that inspires listeners to strive for their goals and dreams, just like Kanye West and Kid Cudi did to achieve success in the music industry.
Line by Line Meaning
I'm, III'm sky high (yeah, Oh, oh, oh)
I am feeling ecstatic and on top of the world, full of enthusiasm and energy
Throw your diamonds in the sky
Celebrate and show off your success and wealth
If you feel the vibe (Oh, oh, oh)
Join in and enjoy the uplifting and vibrant atmosphere
Flashing lights, lights, lights (Oh, oh, oh)
The glamorous and dazzling ambiance of the party is captivating
I go for mine, I got to shine (Oh, oh, oh)
I strive for success and recognition to show my talents and hard work
I'm sky high (Oh, oh, oh)
I am overwhelmed with excitement and joy, feeling invincible and unstoppable
Throw you hands up
Show your enthusiasm and excitement by raising your hands up
Hustlers, busters, boosters, ho
Addressing the crowd of people from all walks of life and professions, celebrating their unity and diversity
Everybody, like we always do it this time
Encouraging the audience to participate and dance along with the music, just like in the past
I go for mine (For mine) , I got to shine
Emphasizing the importance of chasing one's dreams and ambitions, and showcasing them proudly to the world
Throw your motherfuckin' hands up
Expressing the passion and excitement of the moment by encouraging everyone to raise their hands and let loose
(Get 'em high)
A call to action, urging the people to join him in enjoying the party and dancing to the music
Feels good to be home, baby (yeah)
Expressing a sense of comfort and familiarity, as if he were among close friends and family
Nigga, I'm G double O-D, good
Introducing himself as confident and skilled, and deserving of respect
Rock up in the like a poppin' nigga should be
Arriving at the party in style, just like a successful and popular artist should
Never ever was a "shoulda-coulda-woulda" type
Explaining that he never regrets or second-guesses his decisions or actions in life
I am controllin' what the
Asserting his power and influence over the opinions and preferences of the public
People say they like
Acknowledging that people appreciate and recognize his talent and artistry
And no, not the label, this is dream on
Clarifying that his success and creativity are not controlled by the record company, but rather his own vision and hard work
(Dream on)
Reminding everyone to keep dreaming and working hard to achieve their goals, no matter how unrealistic they may seem
Play my songs so you can witnеss when I'm on
Encouraging people to listen to his music and experience firsthand the energy and passion he puts into it
Besides 808s okay, now wait (Okay, now wait)
Asking the audience to be patient and wait for his next album, even though his previous album '808s & Heartbreak' was a success
When you hear my album
Promising that his new album will be a hit and garner lots of attention
It won't be hard to get a date
Confidently boasting that his album will be so popular that everyone will want to join in and be a part of the craze
Yes, , I'm kick drum strummin', hummin'
Describing his unique and creative approach to producing music, using drum beats and humming sounds
The product of a suburban stone cold burrow
Acknowledging that his upbringing in a tough and working-class neighborhood shaped his creativity and identity
They be well rounded
Referring to his diverse range of influences and musical abilities, as well as his well-rounded personality
Most people don't know though
Acknowledging that not many people truly understand the depth and complexity of his music and personality
Hey, it's that in photo (Hell, yeah)
Reminding people of his celebrity status and fame, as well as his unique and captivating character
Back home, they don't what I had went
Reflecting on how his hometown and family may not fully understand or appreciate his accomplishments and struggles
Through to get to you
Grateful for the support and admiration of his fans, and recognizing the hard work and challenges he overcame to reach this level of success
Yo, everybody, GOOD music up in the party
Giving a shoutout to his record label, GOOD Music, and acknowledging their presence and influence in the music industry
Paparazzi need not bother nobody
Asserting that he and his team are not bothered by the constant media attention and scrutiny that comes with fame
(Body, body, body)
A playful and fun reference to the rhythm of the music, encouraging people to dance and move their bodies
Can I talk my shit again? I'm sky high
Asking for permission to express his thoughts and feelings once more, as he is feeling euphoric and excited
I can't believe I'm back
Surprised and grateful for the opportunity to return to the music scene and continue sharing his talents with the world
Up in this motherfucker i'm sky high
Overwhelmed and ecstatic to be present at this event and among so many fans and supporters
The Roc is definitely in the buildin'
Referring to his connection and partnership with Roc-A-Fella Records, and acknowledging their presence and influence at the party
GOOD music's definitely in the buildin'
Celebrating the collective talent and creativity of the artists and producers at GOOD Music, and recognizing their impact on the music industry
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: Clive Kenneth Scott, Desmond Roy Dyer
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@AJ-fl3pz
Lupe Fiasco’s verse is one of the most underrated rap verses. Touch the Sky is one of Kanye’s most underrated songs
@slendaman1634
TheWillog pls stfu don't disrespect Yeezy in his prime like that
@thusano2
ahh his verse is perfect, like god damn what a great introduction
@keananconnor4221
ash jum id call 20mill something to be proud of the more life’s he can bless with his work the better in my opinion
@mcmuffin7612
YESSSSS dude.
@blackmaurice7135
Song and Video
@watts1841
The Nia Long and Tracee Ellis Ross scene is priceless!.....So is Lupe's verse!
@OptimusSlime404
yea Lupe was perfect on this joint
@PortogasDAce1
+Matrix Mike yeah he came correct as a porn star
@ritvikc5883
+Tom D I love that line cuz it's cum and correct like erect and lupes exit of his verse is just awesome and everything about this song and Kanye west is just awesome