kanye west journey to success

Strive Stories

The kanye west success story.

Kanye West (now officially known as Ye) is a highly successful artist, producer, cultural icon and entrepreneur. He has released several critically acclaimed albums and started his own fashion line. He has received numerous awards and honors, including ten Grammy Awards. And to top it all off, he’s a multi-millionaire who has become one of the most influential artists and entrepreneurs in the world.

Kanye’s success is due in part to his hard work and dedication. He is always working on new music or projects, and he puts a lot of thought into everything he does. He also has a great team behind him, which has helped him achieve his goals.

“Shoot For The Stars, So If You Fall You Land On A Cloud.” – kanye west –

With that said, if you want to learn more about Kanye West’s success story and how we can use his journey to success to inspire greater levels of creativity and ambition in our own lives, then read on:

The Early Years

Kanye Omari West was born on June 8th, 1977. His parents divorced when he was only 3 years old and he and his mother relocated to Chicago, Illinois from Atlanta, Georgia.

West had a love for the creative arts at an early age and began writing poetry and drawing when he was just 5 years old. He began rapping in 3rd grade and started to write and compose his own music by the time he was in middle school.

He eventually met his mentor, the DJ, and producer No I.D. at a local radio station when he was about 14 years old. No I.D. took Kanye under his wing and taught him how to produce beats and experiment with hip hop productions. West became friends with another up-and-coming rapper, Jay Z, and the two would often freestyle together.

Ultimately, Kanye started creating beats for other artists in the Chicago area and formed a rap group known as the Go-Getters. [1] The group released their first and only album in 1999.

The Struggle

Although Kanye West was successfully working as a producer, he wanted to step into the limelight and be a rapper himself. He tried to convince Jay Z to sign him to his record label, Roc-A-Fella Records, but Jay Z was reluctant to add him to the roster. He eventually relented and signed Kanye in 2002.

On October 23rd, 2003. Kanye experienced a grave car accident that left him with a shattered jaw. He required surgery to reconstruct his face and was bedridden for weeks.

Kanye left the L.A. studio at around 3 am in a rented Lexus, after finishing a late-night session with Peedi Crack, Beanie Sigel, and The Black Eyed Peas. Just blocks away from the W Hotel, he was cut off and collided head-on with another car.

As a result of the accident, his face needed reconstructive surgery. It took Kanye weeks to recover from the accident. Because he did not have health insurance, he had to foot the bill himself.

West used this time to reflect on his life and career. He decided that he needed to focus on his own music and not just produce beats for other artists. He realized that the music he had previously made wouldn’t have a major impact on the world if he were to die in that tragic accident. From this moment forward, Kanye dedicated himself to making the best music of his career.

He would never play small and he proved this by writing and recording several of his most popular hits while still recovering from the accident.

The Rise To Fame

Many of the demos that Kanye made with No I.D. alongside his producing experience, became the basis of his own solo career. He started working on his own music and released his debut album The College Dropout in 2004.

The album was a huge success, both commercially and critically. It received positive reviews from music critics and debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 chart. It went on to sell over four million copies in the United States. In addition to this, it was also certified 4-times platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

Kanye’s second album, Late Registration, was released in 2005 and was also a huge success. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and received positive reviews from music critics. The album has since been certified triple platinum by the RIAA.

In 2007, Kanye released his third album, Graduation. The album was again a huge success and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. It has since been certified double platinum by the RIAA.

Kanye’s fourth studio album, 808s & Heartbreak, was released in 2008. The album was a departure from his previous work and featured more electronic and autotuned vocals. Although it was not as commercially successful as his previous albums, it still received positive reviews from music critics.

Kanye’s fifth studio album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, was released in 2010 to critical acclaim. It too debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and became one of the highest-rated albums of all time by music critics.

His sixth studio album, Yeezus, was released in 2013 and received positive reviews from music critics. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and sold over two million copies in the United States.

The seventh studio album, The Life of Pablo, was released in 2016. It also debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and has since been certified platinum by the RIAA.

The Kanye West’s Entrepreneurial Path

Following the release of his debut album, Kanye West began designing and manufacturing his own line of clothing and sneakers. Introducing Shutter Shades in 2008, a sleek new sneaker that incorporates traditional shutter-style sunglasses.

He then produced the “Air Yeezy” line in 2009, a highly successful shoe that lasted until 2013. The Adidas Yeezy Boosts were officially released on December 3, 2013, after months of anticipation and rumors.  

West has also released several fashion lines, including DW by Kanye West, Pastelle Clothing, and A.P.C. Kanye West. He has also been involved in the creative direction of numerous fashion brands, such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Nike.

He also founded a production company and record label, “GOOD Music”, in 2004. The label has since signed artists such as John Legend, Big Sean, Pusha T, Kid Cudi, and Mos Def.

Kanye West and his mother started the “Kanye West Foundation” (now called the Dr. Donda West Foundation) in 2003. It aims to provide access to arts and music education for children in low-income communities. [2]

He also founded “Got Bars” in 2013, a free music writing program that helps young people in high-risk areas of Chicago learn how to write and record their own music.

  “I feel that I’m very blessed. But with great blessings come great responsibility.” – Kanye West

Related: Kanye West Quotes

Kanye’s Fall and Slow Redemption

Kanye’s reputation and riches took a big hit in 2022. After pushing the limits on controversial subjects, he lost a contract with one of his biggest business partners, Adidas. [3]

On top of that, his multi-billion dollar net worth was reduced dramatically, as many platforms and business partners severed ties with the controversial artist.

In Early 2023, Kanye attempted to mend his errors, by apologizing for his comments. That said, he’s reputation and riches has not fully bounced back to the heights of his success.

However, Kanye has slowly been working to redeem his reputation since his public fall from grace . He’s since created new partnerships with various artists, including Ty Dolla Sign and their work on the album ‘Vultures’.

Certainly Kanye’s status still has a ways to go, but he appears to be moving in the right direction. Of course, only time will tell.

Related: Ye’s Net Worth

The Kanye West Method

Having said all of that, it’s apparent that Kanye West is an achievement machine. As we’ve just outlined, he’s been tallying up his wins and accomplishments (along with a few L’s) year-over-year for more than a decade now. But how does he do it?

Well, this video production by El Taco Supreme provides a nice analysis on the creative genius of Kanye that has helped him achieve so much so fast. Give it a look if you want to learn what Kanye’s true secret to success is….

Video Credit: El Taco Supreme ( Subscribe Here )

Lessons Learned

The Kanye West Success Story is one of dedication, hard work, and perseverance. Despite all the obstacles he has faced in his life, he has always pushed forward and continued to achieve success in most of the projects he pursued. He is a true inspiration to all who aspire to follow their dreams.

Some lessons we can take away from Kanye West’s success story are the importance of following your dreams, leveraging your talents, and perseverance . And that no matter what obstacles you face in life, if you take the risk to pursue your talents, and keep pushing forward and working hard, you can achieve success. No doubt, Kanye West is a true inspiration to all who want to make their mark on the world.

Final Thoughts

Kanye West is one of the most successful and influential musicians of our time. Sure, he’s had his moments of controversy over the years, but that often comes with the territory of fame.

Hopefully this Kanye story will act as a form of inspiration to every person out there who intends to chase their dreams. So, if that sounds like you, just remember that it’s important to think about how you can integrate the lessons learned from Kanye West into our own lives and use them to achieve success.

That said, we can summarize the Kanye West success story with three important points: dedication, hard work , and perseverance. No matter what obstacles you face in life, if your chasing your dream, keep pushing forward and working hard, and you can eventually achieve the success you’re after.

Until you reach those aims,

[1] Complex: The Story Behind Kanye West’s 90’s Chicago Rap Group , The Go-Getters

[2] Britannica: Kanye West

[3] GQ: How Adidas Uncancelled Yeezy

Like This Post?

STOP WAITING, START DOING.  ENTER YOUR EMAIL BELOW, AND HIT GO !

TOP 17 INSPIRATIONAL SUCCESS STORIES TO KEEP YOU STRIVING FOR YOUR DREAMS

Kevin hart’s story of success.

The STRIVE is on a mission to inspire and uplift 1 billion people by 2032. Our primary aim is to help as many people as possible believe in the uncommon thought, that they can be more than they are, do more than they've done, and achieve more prosperity than they've ever dreamed possible. Let's achieve the impossible together.

You may like

50+ MONDAY GRIND QUOTES TO HELP YOU SMASH THROUGH PROCRASTINATION

50+ INSPIRATIONAL HARD WORK PAYS OFF QUOTES

ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER’S NET WORTH AND HOW HE GOT SO RICH

35+ BEST QUOTES FROM HOW TO WIN FRIENDS AND INFLUENCE PEOPLE

35+ INSPIRING JEFF BEZOS QUOTES ON SUCCESS

TOP 25 JAMES ALTUCHER QUOTES FOR SUCCESS, MONEY, AND MOTIVATION

THE ELON MUSK SUCCESS STORY

Elon Musk is the billionaire entrepreneur responsible for co-founding various vanguard companies like Tesla, SolarCity, SpaceX, and PayPal.  He also helped influence the character behind Marvel’s modern take on Tony Stark. And has been compared to uber-successful business visionaries like Steve Jobs and Henry Ford.  And without a doubt, Elon Musk has already accomplished enough to be considered among some of the greats .  So, considering all the impressive accomplishments of this visionary entrepreneur, we will be diving into how such a legend came to be in this Elon Musk Success Story special.

“I Think It Is Possible For Ordinary People To Choose To Be Extraordinary.”

Just like Elon, we too believe that ordinary people can choose to become extraordinary. Which is why we decided to research and publish this success story of Elon Musk.  As such, the aim of this page is to reveal key insights about Elon that will provide you with a better understanding of how he became so successful. And maybe, just maybe you’ll become inspired to do the same.  So, if you’re ready to start learning from Elon’s success story, let’s dive in.

ELON MUSK’S SUCCESS STORY

Elon was born in South Africa back in 1971 to a father who was an engineer and a mother who was a nutritionist.  Growing up, Elon spent most of his time reading and tinkering with projects when not in school and when his Nany was not watching him. Which according to an interview he did with Rolling Stone [ 1 ] , it was not often. 

So, at an early age, Elon became fond of Isaac Asimov’s books, which would eventually inspire his futurism. And it was his interest in the future, and his penchant for engineering that his engineer father helped cultivate, along with his eye for design, that would set him up for some grand future achievements.

After attending University for just five months in South Africa, Elon decided to move to Canada to attend Queen’s University.  But he didn’t finish his schooling there. In fact, after just two years, he transferred to the University of Pennsylvania to finish his schooling.   But getting through college wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows.  Elon had to strive to make his way through.

Elon financed his college education through a combination of scholarships, getting loans, and having to work two different jobs at the same time.  Fortunately, his sacrifice would eventually pay off, earning himself a degree in Economics and another in Physics. 

After these two educational accomplishments, Elon then went on to get into Stanford’s Ph.D. program. But, just after two days into the program he dropped out to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams.

Related: Elon Musk’s Net Worth

Elon’s initial start-up was an internet company that he, his brother, and a friend went all in on.  The company took some time to get off the ground, and in the interim, Elon would struggle financially.  Things got so bad for Elon at one point, that the only bed he could afford was the couch in their start-up’s office, and the shower and restroom facilities at his local YMCA. 

Despite the low times of this endeavor however, they would eventually find angel investors who backed the company, and clients within the city, and various big name news publishing companies like the New York Times and the Chicago Tribune who saw promise in the company and its useful city guide mapping software. 

From this point, it was only a matter of time before Elon and company, were able to sell the start-up to Compaq for $307 million. [ 2 ]

The Next Venture

After selling the company, Elon earned a $22 million dollar windfall, and would go on to invest the bulk of that money into his next venture, which was a financial services company he co-founded called X.com.  His luck would improve shortly after starting this new venture as they merged with the company that serviced PayPal.com.  And just three years after starting up X.com, merging it with PayPal.com, they would sell it off to eBay for $1.5 billion.

The Big Gamble

With the acquisition of PayPal.com, Elon’s net worth would grow to be $123 million.  Now, at this point Elon could’ve retired early and rode off into to the sunset and lived happily ever after.  But that’s not how legends are made.  Instead, Elon would take a huge gamble and invest most if he newfound millions into two separate companies.  One of them was Tesla Motors, a fledgling automaker focused on electric transportation, and the other was SpaceX, a companied hellbent on commercial space exploration. 

Where most people would leave, Elon leaned in.  He poured his money, blood, sweat, and tears into making both companies a success.  And his passion for design, engineering, and the future would have him succeed on both fronts.

Tesla, is now one of the most valuable companies in the world valued at nearly half a trillion dollars ($554 billion) [ 3 ] , and SpaceX has made progress as well with a recent valuation near $175 billion.

Elon’s big gamble seems to be paying off.

Elon’s Enduring Success

Elon Musk’s success continues to grow as he endlessly pushes the envelope with Tesla, SpaceX, his acquisition of Twitter (now known as X), and the handful of other vanguard companies he has invested in and co-founded along the way.  

So, what’s the success secret to Elon’s enduring success?  Well, it must be said, that Elon does has above average intelligence, which has played a large role in his achievements. However, despite his intelligence, Elon excels because of an extreme ambition that is driven by his passion, and ambition that is backed up by an insane work ethic.

Related: Work Ethic and Success

Success Ethos

In addition to this, Elon focuses most of his energy on activities and ventures that actually matter.  He has made it known through commencement speeches and interviews that he does not waste time on things that don’t matter.  He says it best with this quote…

“Focus on signal over noise.  Don’t waste time on stuff that doesn’t actually make things better.”

Equally as important, is that Elon does not do things for the money.  In fact, he has blatantly stated that money doesn’t matter to him.  All he cares about is accomplishing his main objectives and missions in life.   So, what helps Elon succeed is his commitment to execution and the superhuman work ethic employs to make things happen.  He sums up his work ethic very will with the following quote…

“Work like hell. I mean you just have to put in 80 to 100 hour weeks every week. This improves the odds of success. If other people are putting in 40 hour workweeks and you’re putting in 100 hour workweeks, then even if you’re doing the same thing, you know that you will achieve in four months what it takes them a year to achieve.”

Lastly, the key aspect that has helped Elon find so much success has been his willingness to take risks.  In fact, his whole career has been a series of taking one big risk after another.  Indeed, his fearless approach to turning his ideas into reality, and the fearless action he took to execute on those ideas is key in much of Elon’s success.  He encapsulates this fearless attitude best when he said…

“When something is important enough, you do it even if the odds are not in your favor.”

Peer Into The Mind of a Visionary

To get a better look into the way of thinking that has driven Elon’s futurist pursuits, consider studying his quotes. This list of Elon Musk quotes is a great place to start.

In addition, you can also watch some of the amazing videos others have created about him, like the one below:

Video Credit: Chispa Motivation (Be Sure to Subscribe to Their Channel )

Key Takeaways

Elon Musk’s achievements and life journey in general has a lot to teach us. There’s no doubt that he is a maverick who is willing to do what most won’t, which is part and parcel of his extraordinary achievements.

That said, we hope our Elon Musk success story has convinced you that becoming a billionaire entrepreneur is possible. Elon’s inspiring story should help you realize that you can also get on track for massive success.

But more importantly, it should help you realize that your success can especially be found if you back up your ambitious purpose , with drive, passion, an iron-clad work ethic, and a fearless zeal for executing on those ideas.

So, follow these key takeaways and watch how the sky truly becomes the limit for you, like it has for Elon Musk.

Till you reach your aims,

PS – If you enjoyed our Elon Musk Success Story, then you may also enjoy our account of the late, but equally inspiring visionary Steve Jobs , or fellow billionaire Bernard Arnault .

There’s nothing like a good success story to lift our spirits.  There’s something uniquely powerful about knowing someone else has experienced setbacks and serious hardships similar to our own, and yet still managed to come out on top. 

Success stories are invigorating, and a great one can provide us with a renewed hope, that despite things feeling unimaginably hard and seemingly hopeless, we can still achieve our dreams.  So, here are the most inspirational success stories we’ve ever studied.

Use them to reenergize and inspire yourself to believe that you too can achieve success and your dreams, if you’ll but press on like they did.  Enjoy!

INSPIRING SUCCESS STORIES TO HELP YOU SUCCEED

1. Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone has one of the most inspiring success stories. Before he made it big he was essentially a starving artist. For many years during and after his college years, he worked odd jobs to pay the bills. And he would do so while simultaneously taking on any acting roles he could find to keep his dreams of becoming a successful actor alive.

It was a struggle that Stallone would endure for many years, seven in fact. Throughout all of those seven challenging years, he would gain a few small roles in a handful of movies. But, none of them were grand enough to get his career launched.

During those seven long years of striving, he came face-to-face with near poverty. Stallone was so desperate for money at one point, he had to sell his wife’s jewelry. He even had to sell his dog because he couldn’t keep him fed. Things got so bad for Stallone that he even had to endure homelessness for a short period of time.

But, his days of struggle as an aspiring actor would not last forever. After facing seemingly insurmountable odds for over seven years, he would finally get his big break. And this break would come after he managed to get a script he wrote in a three day flurry of inspiration, in front of two big-shot directors in Hollywood.

It was this defining moment that would turn the tide for Sylvester Stallone. His career would skyrocket after he negotiated the lead role in the film that would come to be known as ‘Rocky’.

Success eventually comes to those who always dream of her. For a more complete account of Sylvester Stallone’s inspiring success story, you can find it here .

2. Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey’s success story is very unique. From a very early age she experienced a level of adversity and poverty that most people would struggle to overcome. She was born into poverty and a broken home in rural Mississippi. Her parents who were just 18 and 19 when they had her, split soon after she was born. This lead to her being taking in by her grand mother.

And her grandmother was not your typical warm and fuzzy grandmother. No, she was a hard-nosed grandmother who was an extreme disciplinarian who discipline her for even the slightest offenses. But, the poverty and disciplined lifestyle didn’t last forever as she moved back with mother at the age of six.

Oprah would then experience sexual assault at an early age, having been molested as early as 9 by some of her family members. Having been emotionally abandoned, abused, and molested, she eventually started part-taking in extremely risky behaviors. Behaviors which eventually led to her becoming pregnant at the age of 14.

Then, because she got pregnant her mother kicked her out of the house. Oprah would go on to live with her father, only to then lose the baby a week after he was born.

Needless to say, Oprah’s early life was chockfull of struggle, adversity, and tragedy. But, regardless of all of her unfortunate experiences, she decided to turn her life around after she lost her baby. So, she committed herself to getting an education, becoming her best, and to going after her dreams.

She decided to start trusting herself again, and loving herself, and making choices that would improve her life versus destroy it. One day, she garnered enough confidence to participate in a beauty pageant. And it was her participation in this pageant that would eventually lead her into a job working for a radio station doing the news.

Oprah’s love for speaking to an audience set the stage for continued success as she would go on to become a news anchor, which she would eventually leverage to host a TV chat show in Maryland, which ultimately led to her having her morning talk show in Chicago.

And as they say, the rest was history. Oprah overcame massive challenges in her youth. Challenges that side line all too many people. She chose to turn her wounds into wisdom, and went on to become one of the most successful talk show hosts in history (by helping many others do the same) with her own self-named talk show, The Oprah Winfrey show. Oprah is now one of the richest self-made women in America.

3. Arnold Schwarzenegger

Considering Arnold Schwarzenegger is the epitome of the self-made man, we wouldn’t dare exclude him from our success stories collection. Arnold was born and raised in Austria. He grew up at a time where the country was still healing from it’s defeat in World War II.

Alcoholism was rampant, defeatism was the norm, and big dreaming scoffed at in his environment. The odds were certainly stacked against young Arnold.

But Arnold didn’t care. He knew he didn’t want to live the traditional Austrian life his parents wanted for him. He also knew he wanted to move to America because it was the land of the free.

As such, he hatched a plan to become a success in body-building. Then to leverage that success to get into movies. And sure enough he did just that. He went on to fulfill his vision by becoming the youngest man to ever win a Mr. Universe competition, and then on to win five Mr. Universe titles and seven Mr. Olympia titles.

After reaching what he set out to do in the sport of bodybuilding, he then went on to commit himself to the acting career he had always dreamed of. And sure enough, he would go on to conquer the film industry to the same degree that he conquered the body building world. Going on to star in multiple blockbuster movies that would gross over $3 billion, and earn him one of the most sizeable net worth’s in Hollywood.

You can find a more complete account of Arnold’s inspiring journey here: Arnold Schwarzenegger Success Story .

4. JK Rowling

J.K Rowling had a dream of becoming a writer early on. But, she would have to persist for many years before her dream of becoming a published author would materialize. Almost as soon as she decided to get to work on putting her ideas down on paper for her book, she would be sidetracked by her mother’s death.

The depression that would ensue left Rowling seeking out a job as a teacher in another country. Soon after, she married and had a child, which would delay her aspirations even further.

But things weren’t done going off the rails for Rowling, as her marriage would abruptly end just one year after it began. This lead to her being jobless with a child, and a barely surviving off of unemployment benefits.

However, despite her challenges, Rowling would persist in the creation of her book. And she did so by seizing every spare moment she could while her child slept to write. Until finally the day came when she completed her manuscript.

Of course, even after Rowling finished her manuscript obstacles still remained. 12 different publishers rejected her novel. The rejection took a toll on her spirits, and she almost quit. Fortunately, she tried one more time. And it was at that moment, that J.K. Rowling’s luck turned around. She finally found a publisher would accepted her manuscript.

Now, J.K. Rowling is now one of the best selling authors of all time. She is also the highest paid novelist in the world. Her books have been translated into over 80 different languages with over 600 million sold. Clearly, persistence and patience pays off in the long run.

5. Steven Spielberg

Most people don’t know this, but Steven Spielberg was rejected from film school three times. But he didn’t let those rejections stop him, and he kept applying till he got accepted.  Eventually Cal State, Long Beach would accept him into their film program. 

Fortunately for Spielberg, he would then go on to leverage his opportunity at Cal State to land an unpaid internship at Universal Studios. 

Of course, this internship wouldn’t last forever, but it lasted just long enough for him to learn how sneak in to the studios undetected so he could continually gather intel on what it would take to become successful in the business. 

Finally, the day would come that he managed to get a film he created in the hands of film executives. But, he had to first overcome the film executives multiple attempts to make him give up.

After being told that the film size was not the right size multiple times, and remaking the entire demo to the recommended sizes every time, the executives finally relented and gave him his film a shot. The movie would go on to win major awards, and solidified Steven Spielberg’s place within the industry.

Steven Spielberg is now one of the most influential film makers in history. On top of this, he’s now also one of the wealthiest. And out of all of our inspirational stories of success, his story in particular, shows, that if you knock long enough and hard enough, the doors of opportunity will eventually swing open for you.

Related: 5 Steps to Start Living Your Dreams

6. Mary Kay Ash

Mary Kay Ash has a truly inspiring success story. She was born in a small town in Texas and got married and started a family at the young age of 17. She would go on to have three children with her husband who was in the military, but they eventually got a divorce.

Mary Kay would struggle for years to take care of her children on her own. But she took on various sales jobs in the direct selling industry, and strived to climb the corporate ranks.

However, after many years of selling various products, along with a few middle management and trainer roles, she started to feel like she was being overlooked for the more prominent leadership roles she aspired to because she was a woman. As such, she eventually decided to take matters into her own hands.

Once her kids were out of the house and on their own, at the age of 45 Mary Kay Ash decided to become her own boss. So, she started her own cosmetic company. She started off very small, but in just a few short years, she manage to transform Mary Kay Cosmetics into a multi-billion dollar corporation that still serves and empowers people all over the world to this day.

Despite being past what most people consider their prime, Mary Kay went on to author multiple best-selling books like  The Mary Kay Way ,  Miracles Happen ,  You Can Have It All , as well as a few others, and she became an inspiration to countless women. And due to the success of her business and her aim to inspire as many people as possible, she became a multi-millionaire and eventually named as ‘The Greatest Woman In American History’.

7. Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo grew up in a household that was barely getting by. As a child, he had to share a room with three of his siblings due to their meager financial situation. There were even times where they didn’t have enough money to buy a soccer ball just so he could play in the streets. But Ronaldo did not let his environment dictate his destiny.

No, instead he would find ways to play the sport he loved even without the ball. He would use bottles, rags, or pretty much anything he could find to make a makeshift ball just so he could play. 

Eventually, Cristiano would get so good at soccer, that he would have to make the ultimate sacrifice at the age of 11 to move over 500 miles away from his family to train with a prestigious soccer academy. It’s a good thing he did too, because by doing so, he put himself on track to eventually become on of the best players in history.

Cristiano Ronaldo is now known as the greatest Portuguese player of all time by the Portuguese Football federation.  Millions of soccer fans all across the globe believe him to be the greatest of all time. 

In addition to this, he is the first soccer player ever to earn over $1 billion dollars, while generating one of the largest net worth’s among professional athletes.  

If you’re looking to learn more about Cristiano’s inspiring success story, you’ll love this .

8. Lionel Messi

While on the topic of soccer, we must also mention Lionel Messi’s success story because it’s every bit as inspiring.  Here’s why, at age of 11, Messi was cut from his soccer team because they thought he was too small.  And he was small, but it was because he had a growth hormone deficiency which made him a lot smaller than all the other kids his age.

Fortunately, Messi didn’t let this deter him.  Instead, he would place himself on a strict regimen where he would inject growth hormones into himself.  And he would go on to do inject himself with this hormone for seven days in one leg, and then seven days in the other.

Messi would keep this routine up for six years.

The great news is, Messi’s sacrifice and persistence paid off.  Because now, he is one of the highest paid soccer players with a staggering net worth, and is considered by legions of fans to be one of the best soccer players of all time due to his winning soccer’s highest achievement, ‘The Ballon d’Or’ six times.

Success requires sacrifice.

9. Michael Jordan

Since we mentioned the greatest of all time in soccer, we can’t leave out the man many consider to be the greatest of all time in basket ball. Now, most people aren’t’ aware of this, but when Michael Jordan was merely a sophomore in high school, he already had big dreams of being a great basketball player. 

So he did something brash and tried out for the Varsity team. But, his coaches cut him from the team. They didn’t see his value nor did they think he was ready.

This rejection hit Jordan especially hard because of his oversized dreams and expectations. In fact, the rejection hit him so hard he went home afterwards and cried in his closet.

Even though that rejection still bothered Jordan, he dusted himself off and went all in for the JV team.  He trained like no other in the off season and grew four extra inches. And the following year he tried out for the varsity team again. But this second time around, he made it.

Not only did he make it, but he went on to become the team’s MVP, making the All-American Team, and eventually earned himself a college scholarship. And from there, well, you know the rest of the story.

Michael Jordan became the man who would score 32,292 points in a basketball career. Jordan became the man who acquired 6 NBA championships. The man who also collected 5 MVP titles, and is now considered the greatest basketball player of all time.

For all the success stories we’ve covered, this one clearly shows the importance of having great expectations, and resilience after rejection.

10. Paulo Coelho

Over 30 years ago a book titled ‘The Alchemist’ was published and hardly anyone noticed. The author of this book was a man named Paulo Coelho , and he was told by the first bookseller to carry his book, that only one person bought a copy after it was released.  As bad as it was to hear about the grim results Coelho remained confident in his work. 

Paulo Coelho waited for better results to appear. Unfortunately, six months passed before he sold his next copy.  Oddly, the person who bought his first book was the same person who bought the second.

After that first year the publisher decided the book was a flop and ended Coelho’s contract.  Fortunately, though, Coelho shrugged off that initial defeat.  He made up his mind to not give in. So Coelho doubled down to pursue his vision with even more fervor by finding another publisher. 

“Now, Coelho found a new publisher, but it was no easy task, as he encountered rejection after rejection.  But, after many repeated rejections, he finally landed that new publisher, and with it, another opportunity to capture his dream.

From that point forward Coelho’s dreams started to come true.  At first, he only sold three thousand books.  But the sales kept trickling in. And as time went by, he would sell ten thousand, and then 100 thousand, and so on and so forth. 

Coelho’s luck has yet to run out. His books sales continue to grow year over year, with now over 150 million and counting copies of ‘The Alchemist’ having been sold. Even more staggering is the fact that he sold over 320 million books when including all of his other works. But, it all started with that first book!

Paulo Coelho’s success story shows that if you truly want something bad enough, all the universe really will conspire to help you achieve the impossible .

11. Abraham Lincoln

Most of us know of this great man because of what he did for those who were in bondage in the United States of America. He delivered the Emancipation Proclamation; a massive accomplishment which ultimately led to the abolition of slavery.

But, what most don’t realize about Abraham Lincoln , is that he has one of the most impressive rap sheets when it comes to overcoming defeat.

In short, his success story consists of a list of failures and set backs so sizable, that you would hardly think it belonged to one of the most accomplished and respected presidents of the United States of America.

Here’s a great example of the many failures Lincoln endured, with a few victories he managed to sprinkle in over his lifetime:

1832: Lost his job

1832: Defeated for legislature

1833: Failed in business

1834: Elected to legislature

1835: The woman he loved died

1836: Had a nervous breakdown

1838: Defeated for Speaker

1843: Defeated for nomination for Congress

1848: Lost re-nomination

1849: Reject for Land Officer

1854: Defeated for Senate

1856: Defeated for nomination for Vice-President

1858: Again defeated for Senate

1860: Elected for President of The United States of America

To be sure, Lincoln virtually failed his way to success. His recorded failures helps us realize the truth behind the Michael Jordan quote we mentioned earlier, and that is…that the key to success is through failure.

Out of all of these success stories, this one in particular should convince you that just because you’ve yet to succeed in life, it doesn’t mean you never will. So, keep pushing and preparing for your big day, because it will come, so long as you keep eye on the prize and keep moving forward .

Related: Success Quotes for Overcoming Failure

12. Tom Brady

One of our favorite inspirational stories of success comes from Tom Brady . Brady didn’t follow the typical athletic path into the NFL. While most athletes begin getting groomed for the sport by the 3rd grade, Tom Brady wouldn’t set foot onto the grid iron until the 9th grade.

In fact, his debut into actually getting onto the football field didn’t come until his Sophomore year. His moment came when the starting quarterback for the JV team quit. Fortunately for Brady, that opportunity helped him capture the starting Varsity QB role by the time his Junior year arrived.

After finding success at the high school level, Brady would eventually go on to become a Michigan Wolverine. But success wasn’t a given for Brady at this level. Nope, he had to earn it.

In fact, Brady came into the program as an underdog, with seven quarterbacks ahead of him on the depth chart. After almost requesting a transfer to another school, Brady’s determination eventually won him the coveted starting position by the time he was a Junior.

The obstacles Brady would face continued on even into the Pros. Brady had his mind set to play in the pros, unfortunately there was little interest in him during the draft. In fact, he was selected in the 6th round as the 199th pick, just barely making it into the league.

Pretty much every coach in the league grossly underrated and underestimated Brady. His draft report from 2000 NFL draft actually stated the following qualities:

• Poor Build | Skinny
• Lacks Great Physical Stature and Strength
• Lacks Mobility and Ability to Avoid The Rush
• Lacks a Really Strong Arm
• Can’t Drive The Ball Down Field
• Doesn’t Throw a Really Tight Spiral
• System-Type Player Who Can Get Exposed if Forced to Adlib
• Easily Knocked Down

Remember, Tom brady was not the highest rated quarterback, he wasn’t the most well groomed for the sport, nor was he the best athlete. In addition, he didn’t have the best numbers, or even the best mechanics. However, Tom Brady did have the most heart and determination.

Thus, through sheer willpower, he pushed himself to becoming one of the greatest football players of all times. And he has proved his case with the following accolades:

• Most NFL Championships By a Player (7x)
• Most Games Won By a Quarterback
• Most Games Played By a Quarterback
• Most Combined Passing Yards
• Most Touchdown Passes
• Most 4th Quarter Comebacks
• Best Touchdown to Interception Ratio
• 5 Time Super Bowl MVP
• 3 Time MVP of the NFL
• 2 Time NFL All-Decade Team Player
• Only Player to Win a Super Bowl for Both The AFC & NFC

13. Sarah Blakely

This success story is about Sarah Blakely, who was once crowned one of the youngest self-made billionaires by Forbes. Her story begins with her love of the firm look that panty hose offered, but her hating how they looked when she wore open toe shoes.

Blakely’s annoyance with panty hose would lead to her always cutting the feet off of her panty hose to pull of the look she was going for. But, after noticing that many other women were doing the same thing, she had a lightbulb moment. And she started to contemplate the creation of a product that would solve this problem.

One day after watching an inspiring Oprah show, Sarah decided to take massive action on her idea. So, she risked it all by investing her entire $5,000 life savings to move to Atlanta, GA. Once there, she would kickstart the production of her product idea for the masses.

Blakely experienced tons of resistance at first. Nobody wanted to manufacture the product she was trying to create. They thought it was too risky and a potential waste of time. Her patent officer even found it difficult to take her idea seriously, thinking it to be a dud.

But, after two years of planning, countless late nights, and lots of no’s, she finally found success. Her lucky break came when a factory agreed to manufacture her products. And when Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales took a risk on her by listing her products for sale at their stores.

Her first year in business she sold over $4 million in revenue. And every year there after her sales would grow exponentially. Sarah’s courage to go all in, and her persistence to bring her idea to the world helped her become a billionaire by the age of 41.

14. Grant Cardone

This next story helps drive the point home, that it’s never too late to be what you might have been. It’s also a good reminder that no matter where you come from, or where you’ve been, you can change. It’s a testament that anyone can clean up their act, and can find massive success in the process.

This success story is about a man who grew up poor in Louisiana, lost his father at a young age, and was raised a single-parent household with four other siblings. It’s a story about a man named Grant Cardone .

Cardone is not your typical celebrity. He didn’t come from money. He’s not a Hollywood superstar,. Nor does he possess some amazing talent, like script-writing, politics, or athleticism. However, what he does possess, is something that is available to us all, and that is a determination to succeed.

Grant Cardone found himself in bad company in his youth. He was involved and addicted to drugs, and was stuck in a downward spiral for over a decade. After getting robbed at gunpoint, being beaten to a bloody pulp with a gun, and then being kicked out of his mother’s house, he finally decided to change his life.

At the age of 25 Grant Cardone decided to clean up his act. He cut all negative influences from his life, got sober, and took the first job he could land.

That job was as a car salesmen. It was a title and a position that Grant was not very fond of.

The economy was slow which meant he didn’t have many options, so he made it work.

Cardone committed to becoming the best salesperson he could be. So, he invested heavily in his own self-improvement by reading books and studying his craft and his industry.

After committing to becoming his very best, his income quickly doubled. And soon thereafter, he would become one of the best car salesmen in the country. He eventually moved on to running his own business, and was extremely smart and disciplined with his money.

Cardone only spent money on what was absolutely necessary for food our housing. He would place anything left over into an investment fund just for real estate.

Grant Cardone’s focus on learning more so that he could earn more, along with having the discipline to invest his extra money, instead of wasting it on frivolous things, helped him become a self-made millionaire just five years later by the age of 30.

Cardone has since gone on to become a prominent international businessman, speaker, and the owner of Cardone Capital, a $1.5 billion investment firm.  He’s authored the New York Times bestselling books  If You’re Not First, You’re Last,  and other notable books like  The 10X Rule , and Axiom Award winning  Sell or Be Sold .  In addition to this, he also founded Cardone University, a popular sales training platform that has accrued over 50,000,000 and growing users.

It took Grant Cardone only five years to completely revolutionize his entire life. With the right mindset and a good dose of willpower, just imagine what 5 years could do for you.

15. Kevin Hart

Every body knows of and loves Kevin Hart. He’s been making us laugh and keeping us highly entertained for many years now. But, what most people don’t know about Kevin Hart, is that he had to overcome some major obstacles before he became one of the most beloved comedians in the world.

Hart had to overcome a negative homelife with a father who was reckless, toxic, and always causing trouble. He had to overcome the challenges of a 2 hour commute for years.

Hart endured naysayers often. In fact, someone he highly respected in the industry told him that he should quit comedy. He had to outlast the boos, the heckling, and getting chicken wings thrown at him due to his performances.

Kevin Hart had to turn countless setbacks into comebacks. He had to choose time after time, to not quit. He chose to keep pushing for his dreams, to ignore the critics, the naysayers, and anyone who doubted his dreams.

Eventually though, Hart’s persistence and commitment to his vision would pay off. The tide would turn for Kevin Hart after years of career stagnancy, rejection, and close calls with defeat.

Kevin Hart is now one of the world’s top 10 comedians. He’s also one of the richest too . So, if you think you can’t do something, just think about Kevin Hart’s success story and all he went through. Because if he can do it, so can you.

16. Tony Robbins

Tony Robbins’ upbringing was rough. His parents divorced when he was only 7 and his mother would go on to get remarried 4 different times as he grew up.

His mother’s unstable relationships with men created a chaotic environment for Tony and his siblings. As the oldest of three other siblings, Robbins felt obligated to step up and help his family cope in a household led by a substance abusing mother.

Robbins had to grow up fast.  As a teenager he had to do the grocery shopping every week for the family because his mother couldn’t be bothered to do it. He also had to prepare the meals for everyone because no one else would.

Eventually, Robbins had to take on various jobs in his youth just to keep the bills paid. Amazingly, Robbins would do all these things even without a car, relying solely on public transportation to get around.

At the age of 17, Robbins had a falling-out with his mother, and she kicked him out of the house.  He finished high school but avoided college.

Armed only with a high school diploma he struggled for a few years working menial jobs that sucked the life out of him.  He gained weight, felt broke, and started feeling hopeless about his situation.

One day, after attending a Jim Rohn he became inspired to turn it all around.  He embraced Rohn’s message of hope and the power of taking responsibility for one’s situation.  And he used that inspiration to reach out to Jim Rohn himself for work, and Rohn obliged.

Robbins soon became one of the Rohn’s best salesman.  In fact, Robbins was so good that he became a millionaire by the age of 26 just from sales. 

Leveraging everything he learned from Rohn, Robbins eventually broke out on his own and became the best-selling author, high performance coach, and multimillionaire that the world has come to know and love.

Tony Robbins story goes to show that our past doesn’t equal our future. And you can overcome slow starts and challenging situations to create a rich and wonderful life.

17. John Paul DeJoria

John Paul DeJoria experienced plenty of hardship before achieving true success. For starters, he grew up in relative poverty. After his parents divorced, his mother couldn’t support him and his brother, so was given up to a foster home.

When his mother finally made enough money to get him and his brother out of the foster home, he still eventually had to find work early on to help his struggling mother pay the bills.

Unfortunately, the financial challenges didn’t cease for John Paul DeJoria after striking out on his own.

After graduating from high school, DeJoria spent two years in the Navy and then started a family. He eked by for a long time by taking various odd jobs as a janitor, gas station attendant, insurance salesmen, and even a door-to-door encyclopedia salesman.

He struggled for a long time to create a prosperous and stable life for himself and his family. Unfortunately, his wife grew impatient and abandoned him and his two-year-old son. Shortly after, he eventually became homeless for a brief period of time. Thankfully, DeJoria never gave up hope.

He hustled for years to get his life in order and provide for his son. Eventually, he found his lucky break after getting his haircut by a hairdresser named Paul Mitchell.

After learning about a high-quality product that his hairdresser sold, he saw the opportunity to go into business with him to help sell his product across the city. So, he went into business with Paul Mitchell and the product became a big hit locally, and then eventually across the entire beauty industry.

John Paul DeJoria leveraged the grit, salesmanship, and business acumen he acquired from all his unprosperous years to transform his budding business partnership into a multinational enterprise. Now, he’s a multi-billionaire .

Hopefully these success stories help you realize that while success may be elusive, it is not unattainable. We also hope that these handpicked stories have helped you understand that success is both a journey and a destination.

But most importantly, we hope you walk away knowing that in order to achieve success, you’ll have to first go through your share of struggles, rejections, and even disasters, but are now eager to take on the challenge.

So, keep your feet on the ground and your eyes on the prize. Keep moving towards your dreams no matter what. Do this, and your success will be just around the corner.

PS – Every success story is unique and can inspire in a different way. That said, if you’re looking for even more success stories about how others achieved success and riches, then you’ll love these Strive Stories too.

Kevin Hart is a household name these days, but this wasn’t always the case. Before he became the highly successful comedian, actor, and producer that we all love to be entertained by these days, he experienced his fair share of struggle, challenges and failure. And now that he’s broken into Hollywood, won countless awards, and built up an impressive fortune himself, we aim to unravel exactly how he managed to do so in this Kevin Hart Success Story special.

“Everybody That’s Successful Lays A Blueprint Out.” – kevin hart –

Before we dive into his story, know this, we agree with Kevin Hart. Success lays a blueprint , which is why we investigate the inspiring success stories of icons like Kevin Hart.  We know every story has something to teach, and if you want to learn about success, then success stories such as this one will do the trick. That said, if you’re ready to learn how Kevin Hart went from being a shoe salesmen to one of the highest paid entertainers in the world, let’s jump right into his inspiring story.

Note:  We are reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Early Days | The Kevin Hart Success Story

Kevin Hart was born in Philadelphia, PA on July 6th, 1979, and into what many would consider a challenging home life. Hart’s mother essentially raised him, as his father was rarely around due to alcoholism, drug addiction, and consistent jailtime. Thus, Hart’s father did not actively participate in raising him.

After Hart’s mother limited his and his one sibling’s (an older brother) time with their father, due to his negative influence (i.e. stealing money from the family, coming around the kids high, being reckless, etc..) they would ultimately have to make due in without their father in one of the toughest neighborhoods, with just one committed parent at the helm.

Fortunately, Kevin Hart’s mother was a strong religious woman with a good head on her shoulders. She was a mother who always encouraged her kids to better themselves, and to set big goals and strive to achieve them.

She not only gave great advice to her kids, but she lived out what she preached, and set a good example by continually seeking to better herself, educate herself and grow in her career.

To cope with his troubled upbringing, and the negative cloud over his home life, Hart would turn to comedy. In fact, he would leverage much of the trauma he experienced in his younger years, into much of his early comedic material.

As a fan of stand-up comedy from a young age, Kevin Hart would eventually give his dream a shot once he graduated high school.

Kevin Hart’s debut into the world of stand-up was not walk in the park. In fact, it was an uphill battle for him. He gave the stage a shot initially in Philadelphia after some his co-workers informed of the opportunity, and encouraged him to give it a shot, but bombed the show.

He then moved to shows in New York, and sought out gigs in Massachusetts as well. Hart would commute nearly 2 hours daily to New York from Philadelphia to try and get noticed in the big New York comedy clubs.

Hart was making moves , but he struggled initially. From getting booed off the stage, to having chicken thrown at him, his act wasn’t an instant winner.

Despite his best efforts and even working a side gig as a shoe salesmen, Hart eventually fell behind on his rent and faced the threat of eviction.

Fortunately, his mom believed in him, and helped him get back on his feet. She supported Hart by paying for his rent for a whole year while he strived to make a name for himself, under the condition that if things didn’t work out after this trial period he’d go college. [1] Fortunately for Hart, and all of us (current and future fans) he was determined to make a name for himself.

Despite the awkward silences, the boos, and the bombed shows, Kevin remained fearless , and kept doing shows. And with every bad joke, and every failed show, he slowly and methodically improved his craft. Things especially changed for Hart when he realized his strategy of trying to be like every other big name comedian wasn’t working.

Thus, once Kevin stepped into his own authentic act, people really started to take notice and that’s when his career began to take off.

Rising To The Top

People started to take note of Kevin Hart’s brilliant comedy. Oddly, Kevin Hart’s fame in the world of comedy really took off, but only after others began stealing his acts.

But Hart’s ambition was to be more than just a stand-up comedian. He also wanted to make his way into Hollywood and become an comedic actor. So, he took action and went for it.

Eventually, Hart landed his first movie role in the movie “Paper Soldiers”. He then made it on the air for a short lived pilot in 2001, which never got picked up. Then, just three years later, Hart landed his own sitcom known as “The Big House.”

However, the show would last for only six episodes, marking a very short-lived run.

Slow And Steady Wins The Race

But, Hart didn’t lose heart. Even though the plug was pulled on his sitcom, he didn’t quit . He kept on pursuing his comedy career, waiting for his next big Hollywood opportunity to arise while he did stand-up around the country and took on smaller roles in various movies like “ Scary Movie” 3 & 4, “The 40 Year-Old Virgin”, “Barbershop”, and “Little Fockers”.

After awhile though, all those small roles started turning into medium-sized roles, and as he racked up more and more roles, the bigger opportunities started coming in, like major multi-million dollar comedy tours and landing serious roles in major blockbuster hits like “Ride Along”, “Get Hard”, “Central Intelligence”, “Jumanji”, “Jumanji: Next Level”, and many more. [2]

And he’s been going strong ever since. With 96 and growing acting credits under his belt, Hart has managed to successfully build for himself a decent-sized multi-million dollar fortune.

On top of this, he’s also the founder of the fast growing multi-million dollar media company known as Hartbeat. [3] Needless to say, Hart has this “success thing” figured out.

Related: Kevin Hart’s Net Worth

Kevin Hart’s Success Ethos

Kevin Hart followed his passion to become a world-class entertainer. But it took more than just passion for him to achieve the massive success he now enjoys. In fact, it could be said that Kevin Hart’s success is a biproduct of his work-ethic , grit , and comedic genius.

However, he has his own take on exactly what allowed him to be so successful. So, in his Kevin Hart’s own words, this is why he succeeded:

Kevin Hart persisted in the face of failure and rejection, and if you want success, he believes you should too…

1. “If you give up at the first sign of struggle, you’re really not ready to be successful.” – Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart didn’t just dream about success, he took action to make it a reality. There’s no denying that he encourages you to do the same…

2. “The best tip I could give you is to be ACTIVE. So many people TALK about what they want to do and they just love words. Don’t be a talker, BE A DOER.” – Kevin Hart

Hart believes that hard work and determination are critical components to success, and that without these two ingredients, success is impossible. So pay he to his success wisdom when he says…

3. “Hard work and determination equals success. Nothing comes easy. Put your mind to something.” – Kevin Hart

Lastly, Kevin Hart doesn’t just work to work. He believes that if you’re going to be putting in the effort, it should at least be towards getting better. So, don’t just work to work, work to improve, to grow, and to add value. In other words, commit to continuous improvement, a.k.a. kaizen …

4. “It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being better.” – Kevin Hart

Related: Kevin Hard Quotes On Success

More Success Insights

Hopefully these four Kevin Hart insights paint a clear picture of his success ethos. However, if you’re looking for a bit more, you can now learn Hart’s blueprint for success directly from the legend himself.

Masterclass has partnered with Kevin Hart, giving him a powerful platform to actually teach people how to use humor to make their mark. You can learn more about it below:

There you have it, Kevin Hart’s story. We covered his journey of growing up with an absent father in a troubled household, to then struggling to make rent as he pursued his dream. To then reaching the heights of achievement after many years of persisting in the face of rejection, long commutes, and even longer days.

We also covered the success ethos that we believed helped Kevin Hart find success. And we provided the success wisdom that he’s laid out for all to learn from. Here are those combined success insights once again as a quick recap:

Work Ethic | Grit | Taking Action | Kaizen

You now have some of Kevin’s secrets to success, but it’s up to you to apply them to your life. Wishing you all the best on your journey to success.

PS – If you enjoyed our Kevin Hart Story on success, then you’ll likely enjoy reading about these equally inspiring stories of struggle and success .

11 MOTIVATIONAL STORIES TO HELP YOU KEEP MOVING FORWARD

It’s a fact, success eludes most people (at least at first).  And chances are high it’s even eluded you once or twice too. This initial elusiveness of success is the reason we’ve pulled together this collection of motivational stories for you. Our aim is to convince you that success won’t evade you forever. Especially if you decide to press on and stay the course no matter what.

We know success is elusive for everyone. At least it is initially.   Success is tricky, it evades, dodges, and ducks away from just about every single person who pursues her. And this is especially the case early in the chase.

The great news is, that success can be found and captured. But, it is only done so by the truly committed. These “lucky few” eventually reach their aim because they discover the qualities that must be possessed before they can win the game. Qualities such as high effort, courage , and self-discipline.

But most importantly, they’ll discover success because they learn how to master the most difficult success quality of them all. Which is, believe it or not… staying power.

Staying power; otherwise known as determined persistence and never giving in, is what helps people reach their eventual destination.

There’s No Magic Pill

Now, if there were a magic pill we could give you to help you become a human battering ram , the type of battering ram that hammers away on the doors of success until it gets through, we’d give it to you.  But, no such pill exists.

However, what we can give you is a few motivational stories to inspire a stronger belief that you can succeed, if you will but persist. And that’s what we have here for you today friend.  11 short motivational stories to help you strengthen your staying power. 11 stories to help you reach your goals and win.

So, if you want to give those doors of success a real scare, read these 11 motivational stories about striving with the utmost care.

BEST MOTIVATIONAL STORIES

1. Paulo Coelho

When ‘The Alchemist’ was first published some 30 some years ago, no one noticed. A bookseller in the northeast corner of the country told the author, Paulo Coelho , that only one person purchased a copy during that first week when it was released.  Un-phased by the silent reception, Paulo Coelho confidently waited for those next few sales to come in.  And he would wait a long time too, as it took six more months before his second copy was sold—and it was sold to the exact same person who bought the first!

By the end of that first year, Paulo Coelho’s publisher lost hope in his book and so decided to cancel his contract and cut him loose.

But, Paulo Coelho didn’t let that demoralizing rejection paralyze him.  Instead of quitting like many would at this point, he decided to be steadfast, and continued to pursue his vision.  So, he looked for another publisher.  He looked, and looked, and looked until he finally found one.  And with it, he found his second chance.

Once his book was published again, it slowly started to sell by word of mouth.  His persistence started to pay off, as he eventually sold three thousand books, then six, then ten.  Month over month year over year his book sales started to grow.  And now… ‘ The Alchemist ’ has sold over 150 million copies across the world.

It’s a good thing Paulo Coelho had staying power.  Had he quit, he wouldn’t be who he is today, a literary legend .

“All battles in life serve to teach us something.” – Paulo Coelho

2. Michael Jordan

Most people don’t know this, but when Michael Jordan was a sophomore in high school, he was eager to prove himself as a great basketball player.  As such, he tried out for the Varsity squad.    But guess what?  Things didn’t go as planned.  Jordan got cut from the team.

Considering he had such big dreams as a star basketball player, that rejection hit him really hard.  In fact, it hit him so hard that he went home, locked himself in his room, and cried.

Now Jordan cried, cried, and cried, but he didn’t quit.  He picked himself up and decided to at least crush it on the JV squad.  And crush it he did.  He also decided to train his ass off in the off season.  He even grew four inches.  And then that next year, Michael Jordan did what all winners do….he tried again.

This time, however, he made the team, and quickly became the school’s best player.  By the time he was a senior, he made the McDonalds’ All-American team.  Then he went off to play in college…and the rest is history.

Michael Jordan didn’t quit.  Instead he transformed his failure into fuel for future success.  He then used that fuel to become “The Michael Jordan”.  The man who would score 32,292 points in his basketball career, acquire 6 NBA championships, collect 5 MVP titles, and come to be known to many, as the GOAT (Greatest of all time).

So, the moral of this motivational story is that no, doesn’t mean never .

“To learn to succeed, you must first learn to fail.” – Michael Jordan

3. Lionel Messi

If you keep up with soccer, then you’ve probably heard of Lionel Messi .  At age of 11, Messi was cut from his soccer team because he was too small.  He was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency which made him much smaller than most kids his age.

However, Messi didn’t let this stop him.  Instead, week after week after week, every day, before going to sleep, he would inject growth hormones into himself.  Messi would do this for seven days in one leg, then seven days in the other, for six long years.

Fortunately, Messi’s foresight and persistence paid off.  Now, he is one of the highest paid soccer players, having a net worth of over 400 million, is considered one of the best soccer players of all time, and has won soccer’s greatest achievement, ‘The Ballon d’Or’ eight times.

Even when it seems nature is against you at first, she bends to those with a strong will who are determined to reach their goals.

“You can overcome anything, if and only if you love something enough.” – Lionel Messi

4. Steven Pressfield

Steven Pressfield is a professional hero to many, especially authors.  Here’s why….

It took Steven Pressfield 17 years before he made his first dollar as a writer.  He wrote for 27 years before he got his first novel published (The Legend of Bagger Vance).

During that time, Steven worked at 21 different jobs in eleven states.  He taught school, drove tractor-trailers, worked in advertising and as a screenwriter in Hollywood, he worked on offshore oil rigs, and even picked fruit as a migrant worker, but he never gave up.  Sure, he had to go back and work for “the man” from time to time, but he kept his eye on the prize; his dream.

This is why his pursuit of his passion is the epitome of staying power.

Now, Steven is the author of over 21 books and is a source of inspiration for authors and creative people around the world.

Art is war, and so is finding success in general.  So, if your dreams are slow to come don’t lose heart, just remember Steven Pressfield, and be willing to fight long and hard for your art.

“Are you paralyzed with fear? That’s a good sign. Fear is good. Like self-doubt, fear is an indicator. Fear tells us what we have to do. Remember one rule of thumb: the more scared we are of a work or calling, the more sure we can be that we have to do it.” – Steven Pressfield

Steven Spielberg’s journey to becoming well, Steven Spielberg is a fantastic motivational story. Here’s why, Spielberg was rejected from USC film school three times. But that didn’t stop him, instead, he just tried a different school.  He applied to Cal State, Long Beach, and got into their film program.  And while still a student a Cal State, he landed an unpaid internship at Universal Studios.  It was a fortuitous gig that soon led his dropping out.  It was a calculated move that would allow him to rub elbows with movie makers at Universal Studios to shortening his path to fulfilling his dream.

Unfortunately, his internship didn’t last long enough for him to break into the movie business like he had planned.  But, undeterred, Steven would still sneak in to the studios, pretending to work there so he could learn more about movies until he could catch his break.

Legend has it, that he had an 8 mm film that he knew the studio executives would love, if only they would watch it.  He found a way to get it into their hands, but they flip flopped on him, and then said they would only watch it if he shot it on a 16-mm film.  So, Steven went out and rented a 16-mm camera and reshot the whole movie.  When he brought it back to the executives, they told him not to come back until it was on a 35-mm film.  Undeterred, he jumped through their hoops and reshot the movie on the 35-mm film.

Finally, the executives decided to relent and gave his movie a look.  And the rest is history.  The movie went on to win a prize at the Atlanta film festival and helped Steven lock in a 7-year contract directing movies with Universal.

No doubt, If you keep looking for your break, the day will come when you find it.

“Sometimes a dream almost whispers… it never shouts. Very hard to hear. So you have to, every day of your lives, be ready to hear what whispers in your ear.” – Steven Spielberg

6. Stephen King

Before he was the king of horror, Stephen King was essentially a starving artist. Money was so scarce in his early writing days, that he and his wife had to live in a trailer, couldn’t afford a telephone, had to borrow clothes for their wedding, and worked multiple jobs to support their family and keep the lights on.

But, the pull of his dream to write was greater that his economic plight.

On top of the financial challenges Stephen King faced, he, like most authors, experienced lots of rejection.  In fact, he received 60 rejections before selling his first story, “The Glass Floor” for a measly $35.  But, he kept on writing, striving, and struggling, until he eventually sold his next story.  And fortunately, his next story would set him up to write full-time, forever.  What was the name of that book?  “Carrie”.

Having published over 200 short stories, 58 novels, and selling over 350 million copies, Stephen King is not just the king of horror, he’s also the king of staying power.

“The scariest moment is always just before you start.” – Stephen King

7. Walt Disney

Everyone knows who this legend is.  But, did you know before Walt Disney was “The Walt Disney”, he had once been fired because his boss thought he lacked imagination and had no good ideas?

We know, it’s crazy to think that he would ever be considered the opposite of what he ended up being so great at.

Fortunately, Walt Disney didn’t listen to his critics, and pressed on to create his own cartoon animation company.  Now, just because he pressed on doesn’t mean he hit it big right away.  He would go on to experience a few additional failures along the way (along with few small successes), but ultimately, he kept on pressing forward, innovating, and improving on his love for animation.

And, well…he eventually smashed through those doors of success and went on to become the creator of the household name that we’ve all come to know and love.

Truly, every success, at some time or another, has had to learn how to believe in themselves when no one else on this big blue planet is willing to hold the same belief.  And the chances are high you’ll have to do the same.

So, when someone tries to halt your vision, just remember good ole Walt Disney .  Ignore your critics, believe in yourself, and get yourself back into the game.

You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you.” – Walt Disney

8. Jack Canfield & MVH

The authors of the now famous ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ series of books faced massive obstacles when first starting out.  Some publishers said their books would never sell.  Others said that their title was stupid, and that nobody bought collections of short stories.

Undeterred, this dynamic duo went on to reach out to publisher after publisher.  They suffered through 123 rejections before things started to look up for them.

Fortunately, they didn’t take no for an answer, because they eventually found stratospheric success with their books, and as a result have sold over 500 million books across the world.

Now Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen (MVH) are practically household names.

If it wasn’t for their staying power and dogged perseverance, they never would have become the founders of one of the most successful publishing franchises in the world today.

“Everything you want is on the other side of fear.” – Jack Canfield

9. Howard Shultz

Thanks to the persistence and tenacity of Howard, today we can enjoy a delicious Starbucks coffee as we  work at our computers in just about every city in the United States of America.

Most people don’t know this, but when Howard Shultz was just starting out, he was finding it very difficult to convince investors to write him a check.   It would take more than 214 rejections before he found someone who believed in his idea enough to help him fund it.

Now that’s staying power.  But that’s not all.  In it’s infancy, his company also incurred losses for three straight years.  And on one of those early years, 1989 to be exact, he incurred more than $1 million in losses alone.

Fortunately, he managed to stick with his goal, and completely turned his company around and into one of the strongest brands on the planet. Had he not remained determined to reach his goals, he never would have.

Howard Shultz is now a legend, and his efforts have made his pursuit a classic motivational story that everyone should know about.

“I am convinced that most people can achieve their dreams and beyond if they have the determination to keep trying.” – Howard Schultz

10. Robert Kiyosaki

The man behind the extremely successful ‘ Rich Dad Poor Dad ’ brand, Robert Kiyosaki is a prime example of persistence in action.

His first business sold those cool looking velcro wallet’s that were all the rage in the 80’s.  Unfortunately, he didn’t protect his product with patents and eventually went bankrupt after competitors snatched up most of his market share.

But he persisted, and soon after went on to start another company that sold licensed apparel for heavy metal bands, unfortunately, that company would eventually flounder as well.

He kept pressing forward though, seeking his one-way ticket out of the rat race .    While working for the Xerox company to pay the bills, he kept striving to build a business.  Eventually, he found success when his first financial education company took off.  Soon after, he then sold that company and leveraged his new-found wealth to become the wealth guru and best-selling author he is today.

Robert Kiyosaki didn’t know ‘the how’, because hardly any of us do.  But, he knew ‘the where’.  He knew where he wanted to go, and kept moving forward, failure after failure until he got there.

“Winners are not afraid of losing. But losers are. Failure is part of the process of success. People who avoid failure also avoid success.” – Robert Kiyosaki

11. Steve Harvey

Steve Harvey , the now famous American television presenter, comedian, actor, author, and game show host has a great motivational story. Harvey was once a struggling, starving artist. And before he would become the famous host of ‘Family Feud’, and essentially a household name, he had to conquer many obstacles first.

In Harvey’s early days, when he was just in grade school, after being asked what he wanted to be when he grew up, he shared with his teacher and his entire class that he wanted to be on T.V. After speaking about his dreams, his teacher lambasted him, and assured him that he would never make it on Television. His teacher told him that his dream was impossible because no one in his community ever made it on T.V… Nor would he make it in the show business because he had a speech impediment.

But, Harvey didn’t let his teacher dismantle his dream. No, he would strive and struggle to make a name for himself after getting out of school. And for nearly 12 years after he turned 18, he would do small stand up comedy gigs, and local shows to break into show biz.

Interestingly, on the day he was considering giving up, instead of calling his dad to tell him he quit, he called an answering machine his parents set up for him for anyone who was looking to get in touch with him. And on that answering machine was a message from the Apollo Comedy Club inviting him to come on to their show.

Delighted by the invitation, Harvey pounced on the opportunity. And once he got on T.V., he never looked back. Steve Harvey has been on T.V. ever since.

“A person has to remember that the road to success is always under construction. You have to get that through your head. That it is not easy becoming successful.” – Steve Harvey

Bonus Motivational Story:

Here’s one last and final motivational story. It is one that you may already be familiar with as they made a movie about it. This story is about about Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger , a 5 foot 6 inch man who dreamed of playing football for Notre Dame.

Rudy was dyslexic, undersized, and wasn’t gifted with the exceptional speed or strength that’s typically found amongst many other football players. He didn’t receive any scholarships to play football, nor was he invited to play anywhere, but he stayed true to his dream, so he walked-on to the team.

As a member of the scout team, he tried and tried again to make the official team, striving to do whatever it took to suite up in the blue and gold and enter the arena as a Fighting Irish football player.

He would go on to struggle for four long years. He would pour his heart into each practice, giving each one his full effort, all for one single moment. Rudy poured his soul into everything he did, and he did it for one single opportunity to get on to the field and play.

His grit and dedication to reaching his life’s goal of getting on that field inspired his entire team, community, and thousands of Fighting Irish fans. Rudy’s determination, heart, and commitment to never quitting helped him finally fulfill his dream of playing for the Fighting Irish.

On the last three plays of the last game of the season, Rudy finally got his shot. His coach put him in with very little time left on the clock, but Rudy seized his moment of glory. And on the final play of the game, Rudy sacked the quarterback.

Rudy’s persistence, dogged determination, and commitment to his dream, led him to becoming the first player in Notre Dame history to ever get carried off the field by his teammates.

“Sometimes a winner is a dreamer who just won’t quit.” – Rudy

Related: Keep Moving Forward Quotes

The key takeaways from these motivational stories is the following: No does not mean never, and the struggle won’t last forever, but if you lack staying power, success will inevitably evade you altogether.

The road to success is filled with no’s, rejections, mishaps and failures along the way.  But, despite all the obstacles, if you want to achieve your aims, you must decide to keep going every single day.

So, if you’ve learned anything from these motivational stories we hope it is this:  That there are only two rules when it comes to success.  Rule number one, never give up.  Rule number two, never forget rule number one .

Till next time,

PS – If you enjoyed these motivational stories about goals and achieving your dreams, and you’re looking for some more inspiration, then you’ll love these other powerful success stories that we’ve pulled together. But, if you’re just looking for some additional motivation, then you’ll these awesome quotes on motivation for winning will do the trick.

THE MARY KAY ASH STORY

Mary Kay Ash  was one of the most inspiring entrepreneurial leaders in modern history. She was the founder of the multi-billion dollar corporation Mary Kay Cosmetics. She also authored multiple best-selling books like The Mary Kay Way , Miracles Happen , You Can Have It All , and many others. And to this day, her legacy lives on, positively impacting people all over the world.

With that being said, we aim to explore how this remarkable human came to be known as America’s Greatest Woman entrepreneur in this Mary Kay Ash story of success.

We believe success leaves clues, which is why we cover stories of accomplished and inspiring people like Mary Kay Ash. We also choose to highlight individuals who have extraordinary stories that can inspire us to create successful lives for ourselves.

Each story possesses hidden insights that can teach us, guide us, and give us the advantage we all seek to get ahead in life. So, without further ado, if you’re ready to learn how Mary Kay Ash achieved the impossible, let’s dive in:

Mary Kay Ash Story | Early Days

Mary Kay was born in 1918 in the small Texas town of Hot Wells just outside of Houston, TX. Upon graduating high school in 1934, she got married soon after and started a family at the age of 17. They eventually had a total of three children together, and Mary Kay nurtured and raised her children while her husband was away serving military duty overseas during WWII.

Eventually, when the war ended and her husband returned home in 1945, they chose to get a divorce. Mary would go on to support herself and her kids with various sales jobs.

At one point she sold books door-to-door to make ends meet. Fortunately she would eventually hit her stride in sales, and go on to become a top salesperson for Stanley Home products.

In fact, Mary Kay became so good at selling, especially in the home party environment, that she would eventually get offered an even better opportunity with the company World Gifts which she took advantage of.

After spending over a decade working for other people, Mary Kay would eventually get disenchanted with being overlooked for promotions and internal opportunities that she believed she deserved. She often felt overlooked because because she was a woman.

So, in 1963 at the age of 45 when all of her children were already grown and young adults, Mary Kay decided to retire from her 25 year-long career in direct sales, as a Director of Training. But, while enjoying her early retirement she eventually grew bothered by the idea that her hard work and abilities were never truly and justly rewarded.

Certainly, she was already successful, but she grew frustrated with the memory of having so many opportunities pass her by throughout her sales career primarily because she was a woman. As such, she ultimately decided to squash the negative thoughts and recurring doubts she was having by creating a business that she believed could keep help women avoid such unfairness altogether.

So, not knowing anything about starting a business, she decided to take ownership of her situation, and took a chance at becoming the owner of a business that would operate by the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”.

Inspired to call the shots, and earn the recognition she felt she (and all other women) deserved, she went on to form a cosmetics business named Beauty by Mary Kay with one of her sons. After procuring the ingredients and formulas for lotions and other feminine cosmetic products, she went on to open up her first store front in Dallas Texas.

Seized Opportunity

But Mary Kay didn’t want to just create any business, she wanted to create something that truly empowered others. She wanted to create a business that would create more opportunities for women, and that would give them the support needed for them to be successful.

As such, she organized her business in a format that she was familiar with, the direct-selling format . Mary Kay felt that this business model would empower her sales reps and put them in true control of their own future especially when combined with her ‘Golden Rule’ philosophy.

Mary Kay’s new business incentivized entrepreneurial-minded women who were eager to work independently to build a business with low start-up and overhead costs. As such, her business not only created new opportunities for women, but it gave them an opportunity to take control of their financial situation, while maintaining the flexibility to do it on their own terms.

Mary Kay Ash was a hard working woman, and she had a passion for helping other women get ahead. She was a strong leader.

And as highlighted earlier, she was a big believer in the Golden Rule from the Bible. Thus, she believed that anyone could get ahead if they would lead their lives according to good moral principles and the Golden Rule.

As such, Mary Kay became a big advocate for pursuing business from a position of principles and integrity, and she coached and led her sales people to live by these guiding rules. Mary Kay was also a big believer in listening, in treating people like she would want to be treated, in relationship building, and in the idea that when you aim to do good not just for yourself, but for others, you too will do well.

The results of her leadership speak for themselves, as she managed to create many successful entrepreneurs and millionaires , and in the process the world-renowned multi-billion dollar business franchise now known as Mary Kay Cosmetics .

Indeed, her leadership helped her achieve extreme financial and business success, but most importantly, here leadership helped her create a movement that inspired, and continues to inspire the hearts and minds of women all over the world.

Mary Kay Ash Accolades

No doubt the achievements just mentioned above are remarkable on their own, but, Mary Kay Ash also managed to accumulate an impressive list of additional accolades that are worthy of our admiration, and here are a just a few of them:

• Awarded ‘Greatest Female Entrepreneur in American History’ Award by Baylor University
• Named as ‘One of 25 Greatest Business Leaders of Our Time’ by Wharton School of Business
• Awarded the ‘Humanitarian Rose Award’
• Awarded the ‘Golden Plate Award’
• Honored with the ‘Horatio Alger Award’
• Inducted into Junior Achievements U.S. Business Hall of Fame

Success Ethos | In Her Own Words

A handful of qualities contributed to Mary Kay Ash’s achievement of success. In observing her story, it is apparent that she was a go-getter who didn’t wait for opportunity to come to her, but instead seized and created opportunities for herself.

Her story also shows us that success doesn’t always arrive quickly, and that it sometimes takes a lot of frustrating experiences, challenges, and even failures before we hit our stride.

With that being said, here are a few additional Mary Kay Ash takes on success that demonstrates the type of thinking and mindset that helped her (and that can help you) achieve success.

“Opportunities have always and will always be around. You simply have to take advantage of them.” – Mary Kay Ash

“Honesty is the cornerstone of all success, without which confidence and ability to perform shall cease to exist.” – Mary Kay Ash

“One of the secrets of success is to refuse to let temporary setbacks defeat us.” – Mary Kay Ash

“Throw out the words ‘If I can’, ‘I hope’, and ‘maybe’, and replace them with ‘I can, I will, I must.” – Mary Kay Ash

Related: Mary Kay Ash Quotes

Key Takeaways of The Mary Kay Ash Story

There you have it, the inspiring Mary Kay Ash story that proves that anything is possible, and that you can find more success in your life or in your business if you put people first, listen more, and most importantly, seek to follow the ‘Golden Rule’.

Lastly, one the most important takeaway’s from her story is this; that you’re never too old to start something amazing. As Mary Kay Ash’s life has proven, the end of your career or the last phase of your life can become the beginning of your legacy. In short, your past up until this point, can be the stepping stone to your greater future .

DEFYING THE ODDS: HOW THIS YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR BUILT HIS $25M+ COMPANY WITH JUST $600

Wilbur You is the founder and CEO of Youtech. He is a Chinese-American immigrant who moved to the United States at the age of two when he and his widowed mother decided to leave Brazil to pursue a better life. They settled in the Chicago suburb, Naperville, where his mother worked long hours to support their family while simultaneously attending college. From this, Wilbur witnessed first-hand the result of combining one’s current resources with determination to achieve goals at any age. 

In The Beginning 

Wilbur found his knack for problem-solving at 10 years old when he developed an online game, attracting over 10,000 active and daily paying users. Though the game would eventually get shut down for copyright infringement, this ignited his entrepreneurial fire.

Wilbur later attended Northern Illinois University where he studied computer science. Usually one of the busiest times in one’s life, Wilbur was determined to start a successful business while still just a college student.

He failed at this not once, but twice. While deciding to further his education through DeVry University’s Business Management School and after working as a marketing coordinator for a short while, Wilbur tried for a final time (and with a little more knowledge and experience) to launch a company. This is when Youtech was born.

Wilbur started Youtech & Associates as a one-man operation at the age of 21. It was by no means an easy start. Wilbur’s primary goal was to build something from nothing to create a positive change in the world. While his mission was clear, reality quickly set in when he realized that Youtech was merely an idea and that there was a tremendous amount of work that still needed to be done.

The challenges of launching a business started early on as the company had no money, no connections, and most importantly, no customers. Wilbur began working out of the basement of his childhood home, making over 100 cold calls every day asking every business he could find to give him a chance at building their professional websites for a small fee.

The company (Wilbur) knew that to be successful , he needed to take on anyone and any project, large or small, to build a significant client base.

As his small business grew, Wilbur recruited two of his best friends to help get the initial $600 investment off the ground. This grassroots effort required the team to work up to 80 hours a week but they pushed through each challenging day for months.

Slowly but surely their hard work began to pay off. They were now on the receiving end of those phone calls. At this point, Youtech was able to save enough from various projects to open a small office near Chicago and hire a few additional team members with experience in web design, marketing, client relations, and more.

By expanding services, Youtech’s preliminary roster of clients grew faster than Wilbur could have imagined. 

Fast forward eight years, the team now consists of over 60 employees throughout its offices in Chicago, Arizona and most recently, Texas. The company has been ranked in Inc.’s Fastest Growing Companies in the country for four years running. 

Youtech Today

Today, Wilbur reflects on his (and his team’s) setbacks, failures, and hardships, and is proud of this challenging journey. The idea of Youtech created a full-fledged integrated marketing agency that is now the home of a hodgepodge of extremely creative individuals that have serviced over 1,000 clients in various industries including MillerCoors, Chick-fil-A, and 3M. 

Wilbur and his team recognize that today’s marketing landscape is moving quickly. Platforms are always changing and algorithms are changing even faster. So, every day, the Youtech team makes it a priority to learn how to best optimize leads and conversions to enhance their resources for current and future clients. 

Opportunities Available 

As a result of his dedication and work ethic , Wilbur has been able to secure opportunities for awards, speaking engagements, and more.

After only a decade in the marketing and advertising industry, Wilbur was selected by Forbes’ notable 30 Under 30 2021 Class for his achievements with Youtech. He has a unique ability to construct personalized marketing strategies for clients and is able to effortlessly bridge the gap between traditional and digital marketing methods.

As the visionary architect behind Youtech’s ever-growing marketing empire, Wilbur knows how to bootstrap a business from the ground up and keep the arrow pointing in the right direction without outside funding.

In addition to this, Wilbur was selected to serve on the advisory board of The Alkaline Water Company (the #1 bulk water brand in North America), where he consults on e-commerce and marketing. Wilbur also volunteers annually to speak to Naperville Central High School students about entrepreneurship. Additionally, Wilbur is a published author who published the inspiring must-read memoir, Happy, Humble, Motivated .

Wilbur and Youtech’s journey has not been easy but they have certainly come a long way from building $500 websites in a basement. Wilbur’s hard work opened various doors and he is now the mastermind behind million-dollar marketing, app development, and web design deals.

Wilbur always notes that education is something that nobody can ever take away from you. Expanding your knowledge and continuously learning can bring you a sense of satisfaction without settling for less than you deserve. 

As Wilbur continually states, the most important thing for any business is the people with whom you surround yourself. He looks for candidates who don’t necessarily have the best resume and seeks out those who he can sense are high achievers at the end of the day.

His method is to find employees who are better than him in a particular area, like marketing or graphic design, and then welcomes them with open arms.

Wilbur said what he is most proud of, though, is that Youtech was built the right way and created an environment where each of his team members is significant and feels like a valuable asset to the company each and every day.

Until you reach your aims,

PS – If you enjoyed this success story about Wilbur You, then you’ll love these handful of success stories from other inspiring young entrepreneurs as well.

THE SUZE ORMAN SUCCESS STORY

Suze Orman , a highly successful personal finance expert and advisor, is best known for her TV show, podcast, and numerous New York Times bestsellers. In the late 80’s, she founded the Suze Orman Financial Group. And she eventually ran a show on CNBC for 13 years where she shared helpful financial tips so people could learn how to manage their money better.

Time has named Orman one of the Top 100 most influential people on multiple occasions, and she has won numerous awards. Needless to say, she knows a thing or two about success and money, which is why we’ve decided to publish the Suze Orman Success Story in more detail.

“People First, Then Money, Then Things.” – suze orman –

It is important to take a closer look at why some people are more successful than others. That way, we can learn from some of the mistakes that they made without having to make them ourselves, while also following in the footsteps of what made them successful. Indeed, just about every success story leaves a blueprint.

Having said that, this Suze Orman’s success story is not straightforward. However, by taking a closer look at her journey we can find some inspiration, and maybe even discover a few success clues along the way that can help us move our dreams forward.

THE SUZE ORMAN STORY OF SUCCESS

Early Days: Speech Issues Make Life Hard

Suze Orman was born in Chicago, IL in 1951 to immigrant parents from eastern Europe. While growing she had a difficult time pronouncing letters such as R, S, and T. This meant that she had a hard time learning how to say certain words. For example, she had difficulty saying the word “beautiful,” and she had trouble saying words like “fair” and “shouldn’t” properly. [1]

Because she could not speak very well, she also could not read very well. She was consistently among the lowest-scoring students in the class in reading and writing, and she was often ostracized from the rest of her classmates because of her low test scores. 

Barely Scraping By: Going To College

Even though she scored poorly on tests, including the SAT, she decided to go to college anyway. Her family was having a difficult time with money . While some students had parents who could pay for their education, and other students were receiving scholarships because of their academic achievements, Suze Orman had neither.

Her parents were struggling to get by, and she knew she would have to pay for her college education herself. That meant that she had to put in the work to apply to all the state schools and community colleges.

To her surprise, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign accepted her.

When Suze Orman walked through the school doors for the first time, she met a guidance counselor who would guide her in her class choices. Her dream was to be a brain surgeon. However, the guidance counselor immediately thought that she did not have what it took.

So, Orman got to work doing some research. She realized that the easiest major was social work, as such, that’s what she signed up for. [2]

The Language Issues Resurface

She knew that she needed to make enough money to pay for her college education, so she got a job working in the dish room of her college dorm seven days per week just to make enough money to pay the bills. She even shared a one-bedroom apartment with two friends she had met in her dorm.

Even though her social life was looking up, her language skills would eventually come back to haunt her. Even though her expected graduation year was 1973, she could not graduate. She did not have her language requirement, and this time, it would be a foreign language.

Suze Orman knew that she was having a difficult time speaking the English language, so how on Earth would she learn a foreign language? So she decided not to put herself through the trauma, and essentially dropped out of college.

But all of her hopes and dream weren’t crushed. She still had a passion for travel and adventure. So she set off to travel across the country to see the Grand Canyon. 

She would have to make enough money to hitchhike across the country, so she worked some odd jobs as she explored everything the country had to offer. Eventually, she felt ashamed of not finishing her college degree, so she decided to take some Spanish classes at one of the local universities.

Finally, in 1976, three whole years after her scheduled graduation, she graduated and earned her degree from the University of Illinois. 

A Desire To Own Her Own Restaurant

One of the jobs that she worked while she explored the country was waitressing. While she enjoyed it, she wanted to own her own restaurant. Her parents did not have the money to finance her restaurant, and she did not know what she would do.

She talked to her brother, who gave her some money, along with numerous other generous people to help her make her dream come true. Orman eventually collected over $50K from friends and patrons who supported her dream.

One of her patron’s advised her to deposit the money into a money market account. However, a bad-seed at the brokerage where she went to deposit the money, advised her to instead invest the funds into a speculative and high-risk investment so she could earn more money from her invested money while she saved the rest to meet her savings goal.

Sadly, just three months after she put the money in the account, it was all gone. All of the money given to her by her patron Fred, and her other supporters had been drained through those speculative investments. She believed her dream was within reach, and then suddenly, she lost the money.

This prompted Suze Orman to decide that she did not want something like this to happen to anybody else, so she decided to become a financial advisor. Orman felt like there were not a lot of female role models from which to learn, so she decided to change that fact by getting into the financial advising industry.

Founding the Suze Orman Financial Group

So in short order, she decided to join Merrill Lynch, where she completed her training. After some time she moved overt to Prudential securities to become a vice-president, and then after she felt like she really knew her stuff, she resigned and founded her own financial group. [3]

After leading numerous customers and clients to financial success, demand grew for her services. In fact, demand for her services grew so fast, that her financial group became the go-to for financial advising.

Thus, in short order she became a household name, especially when she started writing books. Suze Orman has since written ten consecutive New York Times bestsellers about personal finance. She has also earned two Emmy Awards and eight Gracie Awards.

She’s also appeared as a guest on the Oprah Winfrey Show and Larry King Live nearly 30 times. And she gained her greatest fame for her show on CNBC.

These days, Suze Orman still pops up on various shows or podcasts, offering her helpful insights to all who listen.

Related: Suze Orman Quotes

So, there it is. The Suze Orman story. No doubt, her journey is rife with lots of challenges and adventures, but it is also one filled with helpful advice on how everyone, including you, can navigate an eventful life where everything doesn’t goes as planned, to eventually coming out on top as a success, both financially and professionally.

That said, if if you’re looking to learn more about Suze Orman and her wonderful financial philosophy, her website is a good place to start .

PS – If you enjoyed this Suze Orman success story, then you’ll probably enjoy learning about the success journeys of fellow financial experts like Dave Ramsey or Robert Kiyosaki .

BRITISH BILLIONAIRE RICHARD BRANSON’S NET WORTH

25 KEY FINANCIAL STATISTICS THAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT

DAN PENA’S NET WORTH AND HOW HE GOT SO RICH

15+ BEST BOOKS TO BUILD SELF-DISCIPLINE AND MASTER SELF-CONTROL (2024)

100+ SELF-DISCIPLINE QUOTES TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE UNLIMITED SUCCESS

TOP 25 MOTIVATIONAL MANTRAS FOR SUCCESS

100+ INSPIRING EFFORT QUOTES TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR POTENTIAL

100+ HARD WORK QUOTES TO HELP YOU OUTWORK EVERYONE

100+ INSPIRING QUOTES ABOUT FOLLOWING YOUR DREAMS

100 INSPIRING COURAGE QUOTES TO HELP YOU FEEL COURAGEOUS

Kanye West Success Story: Unraveling the Path to Fame and Fortune

Kanye West’s meteoric rise to fame is a remarkable example of talent, hard work, and perseverance. Born on June 8, 1977, in Atlanta, Georgia, West began his career as a producer in the late 1990s and early 2000s before transitioning to a critically acclaimed solo artist. Today, he is not only recognized for his musical prowess but also as a trailblazing entrepreneur and fashion designer, garnering worldwide influence.

His mother, Donda West, was instrumental in nurturing his musical aptitude, providing unwavering support from an early age. Kanye’s discography includes groundbreaking albums such as The College Dropout, Late Registration, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, which have earned him numerous accolades, including ten Grammy Awards. Kanye’s success story is also marked by his ventures in fashion, with his Yeezy brand collaborating with Adidas and launching the Yeezy collection in partnership with Gap.

Over the years, Kanye has faced various challenges and controversies, yet remains a prominent figure in both the music and fashion industries. His story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the heights that can be achieved through relentless dedication and a creative spirit.

Early Life and Beginnings

Childhood in chicago and atlanta.

Kanye West, born on June 8, 1977, in Atlanta, Georgia, grew up in Chicago after his parents divorced when he was just three years old. Raised in a middle-class background by his highly educated mother, Donda West, Kanye developed a passion for creativity and poetry from a young age. He started rapping at the age of seven and soon expressed his desire to take music recording more seriously.

Musical and Artistic Influences

Kanye was inspired by various musical and artistic genres throughout his early years. Growing up in the multicultural city of Chicago, Kanye was exposed to diverse sounds and musical influences that shaped his unique style and artistic vision. As a young aspiring artist, his musical inspirations included gospel, soul, hip-hop, and R&B.

Chicago State University and Dropping Out

Kanye enrolled at Chicago State University, where his mother worked as an English professor. However, he soon discovered that college life and traditional academics were not in line with his ambition and dreams. Determined to pursue a career in music, Kanye made the bold decision to drop out of college. This event inspired the title of his debut album, “The College Dropout,” which went on to become a critical and commercial success, and marked the beginning of an extraordinary journey for one of the most influential artists in recent times.

Music Career Breakthrough

Rise as a producer.

Kanye West began his career as a music producer in the late 1990s, working with local artists in Chicago. His reputation as a talented producer grew quickly, and he soon started collaborating with well-known artists. West’s unique style of blending soulful samples with hip-hop beats helped him to create a distinctive sound within the industry.

Collaboration with Jay-Z

Kanye’s big break came when he started working with Jay-Z and his label, Roc-A-Fella Records. He produced several tracks on Jay-Z’s 2001 album, The Blueprint , which became a critical and commercial success. The album showcased Kanye’s remarkable production and songwriting skills, solidifying him as one of the leading talents in hip-hop music.

Near-Fatal Car Accident and Recovery

In 2002, Kanye West faced a life-changing challenge when he was involved in a near-fatal car accident. This unfortunate event left him with a shattered jaw and weeks of recovery ahead. During this time, West recorded the song “Through the Wire” while his jaw was still wired shut. The song would later become his first single and marked the beginning of his rise as a solo artist.

Debut Album: The College Dropout

After his incredible recovery, West released his debut album, The College Dropout , in 2004, which showcased his abilities as both a rapper and a producer. The album received widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. Kanye’s unique approach to crafting music, combined with his relatable and thought-provoking lyrics, delivered a powerful message that resonated with fans across the globe. This breakthrough set the stage for Kanye West’s influential and illustrious career in the music industry.

Success as a Solo Artist

The college dropout and immediate success.

Kanye West started his journey as a solo artist with his debut album, “The College Dropout,” in 2004. This album was a massive success, featuring tracks like “Jesus Walks” and catapulting West into the spotlight. The album received critical acclaim and earned him several Grammy Awards, cementing his status as a highly influential artist.

Late Registration and Continued Fame

In 2005, West released his second album, “Late Registration,” which further solidified his fame. It was well-received and included hits like “Gold Digger,” featuring Jamie Foxx. “Late Registration” won multiple Grammy Awards, contributing to West’s reputation as a talented, boundary-pushing musician.

Graduation and Rivalry with 50 Cent

2007 saw the release of Kanye West’s third studio album, “Graduation.” This was marked by a high-profile rivalry between West and rapper 50 Cent, who released his album “Curtis” on the same day. “Graduation” came out on top, with hits such as “Stronger” leading it to commercial and critical success.

808s and Heartbreak and Experimentation

In 2008, West released “808s and Heartbreak,” an album infused with experimental electronic and R&B elements. This marked a departure from his previous rap-centered style, and produced the hit single “Heartless.” The album received a mixture of praise and criticism, but its influence on the music scene was undeniable.

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy and Redemption

“My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” was released in 2010, and is often considered one of Kanye West’s best albums. This ambitious record features powerful tracks like “Power,” showcasing West’s artistic prowess. The album garnered multiple Grammy Awards and widespread critical acclaim.

Yeezus and Challenging Boundaries

2013’s “Yeezus” saw West pushing the boundaries even further, with an album packed with experimental and industrial sounds. “Yeezus” polarized fans and critics but remained an influential part of West’s discography.

The Life of Pablo and Personal Struggles

“The Life of Pablo,” released in 2016, focused on West’s personal struggles and musings on fame, faith, and family. The album received generally positive reviews, but also marked a tumultuous period in West’s personal life.

Jesus Is King and Gospel Influence

In 2019, West released the gospel-influenced album “Jesus Is King.” A dramatic shift in tone and content, this album highlighted West’s religious beliefs and desire for self-improvement. While it received mixed reviews, the album further demonstrated West’s artistic versatility.

Notable Collaborations and Impact on Industry

Formation of g.o.o.d. music label.

Kanye West has significantly influenced the music industry through his collaborations and business ventures, one of which is the formation of his own music label, G.O.O.D. Music . Established in 2004, the label has fostered the careers of various talented artists, enhancing their presence in the industry. G.O.D. Music has been a driving force in shaping the sound and aesthetics of hip-hop and R&B.

Work with Rihanna, Alicia Keys, and Kid Cudi

Kanye West’s work with some of the biggest names in music has also had a lasting impact. His collaborations with Rihanna on tracks like “All of the Lights” and “Run This Town” showcased his ability to create pop-infused hip-hop anthems. West’s production work on Alicia Keys ‘ “You Don’t Know My Name” brought a fresh, soulful sound to Keys’ music, contributing to her continued success.

Furthermore, Kanye West has played a significant role in the career of Kid Cudi by signing him to his G.O.O.D. Music label and collaborating with him on multiple projects. Their joint work on tracks like “Welcome to Heartbreak” and “Gorgeous” has contributed to the unique and introspective sound of both artists.

Watch the Throne Collaboration with Jay-Z

Arguably one of his most notable collaborations, Kanye West teamed up with Jay-Z to create the iconic album Watch the Throne . The collaboration highlighted West’s innovative production while further expanding Jay-Z’s legacy in hip-hop. The album, released in 2011, was a critical and commercial success, producing hit songs like “Otis,” “N***as in Paris,” and “No Church in the Wild.” Watch the Throne solidified both Kanye West and Jay-Z’s influence in the music industry and their ability to create groundbreaking work together.

Fashion and Entrepreneurship

Adidas and yeezy line.

Kanye West ventured into the world of fashion and entrepreneurship by partnering with Adidas in 2013. This collaboration led to the creation of the Yeezy brand, which quickly gained popularity with its Yeezy Boost 350 sneakers. Kanye’s Yeezy line has since expanded to include various styles of clothing and accessories. The Yeezy brand not only showcases Kanye’s artistic vision in fashion but also has positioned itself as an influential player in the industry.

Nike and Controversy

Prior to his partnership with Adidas, Kanye had a deal with Nike. He designed the highly sought-after Air Yeezy sneakers, released in 2009 and 2012. However, their collaboration ended due to creative differences and financial disputes. Kanye claimed that he was not receiving royalties for his designs, which led to a controversial split between him and the company.

Collaboration with Gap

In 2020, Kanye West announced a partnership with Gap to create a new line called Yeezy Gap . The collaboration aimed to make fashion accessible and affordable while maintaining the high-quality design standards that Yeezy is known for. This partnership ties back to Kanye’s earlier years in retail, as he once worked at a Gap store before becoming a successful music and fashion icon. The Yeezy Gap collection features modern and minimalist designs that appeal to a wide audience, further cementing Kanye’s position in the fashion world.

Controversies and Criticisms

Taylor swift incident.

In 2009, Kanye West made headlines for interrupting Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech during the MTV Video Music Awards. He took the stage and declared that Beyoncé should have won the award instead. This event marked one of the early controversial moments in his career and negatively impacted his public image.

Political Views and Statement about Slavery

Kanye has been met with criticism for his outspoken political views, particularly his support for President Trump at various times. His association with controversial figures and statements has made him a polarizing personality in the entertainment industry. Furthermore, in 2018, he received widespread backlash for saying that slavery was a choice, sparking heated debates about race and historical context.

Mental Health Struggles

Kanye West’s mental health struggles have become a significant part of his public narrative. He has been open about his bipolar disorder diagnosis and has experienced erratic behavior during certain periods. His vulnerability and openness about mental health have raised awareness, but it has also attracted both sympathizers and detractors in public discourse.

• 2005 : Kanye declared that George W. Bush didn’t care about black people during a live broadcast for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.
• 2016 : He was hospitalized for a mental health crisis related to stress and exhaustion.
• 2020 : Kanye’s presidential campaign revealed further details about his mental health journey, as he openly discussed his diagnosis and experiences during campaign events.

Legacy and Influence

Impact on music and hip hop.

Kanye West is an accomplished rapper and producer, who has shaped the music industry and specifically hip hop over the past few years. Throughout his career, West has released critically acclaimed albums that have consistently pushed creative boundaries. His incorporation of various music genres, such as soul, electronica, and rock, has set him apart from other artists and allowed him to create his unique sound.

One key aspect of Kanye’s musical influence is his innovative approach to vocal sampling, which can be heard in many of his tracks. His ability to integrate samples from African American musicians who have helped define genres reflects his deep understanding and appreciation of music history. This creative use of samples has not only earned him numerous accolades but also inspired other artists to follow suit.

West’s impact as a rapper is further illustrated by his appearance on Time Magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People, which highlights his global prominence in the industry. His fearless confidence and powerful persona have inspired countless rappers and hip hop artists in search of their identity and motivation.

Influence on Fashion and Entrepreneurship

Aside from his musical accomplishments, Kanye West has also ventured into the world of fashion and entrepreneurship. He has established himself as a significant influencer, demonstrating a keen sense of style and individuality. His clothing line, Yeezy, is a perfect example of his ability to combine his love for fashion, music, and art into a single, cohesive brand. The impact of Yeezy has been enormous, with the brand quickly becoming a household name and a go-to choice for enthusiasts and celebrities alike.

In addition to his fashion ventures, West has shown his entrepreneurial spirit by maximizing his brand through collaborations, such as his partnerships with Adidas and Gap. These collaborations have further cemented his influence across industries and demonstrated his ability to navigate multiple business realms successfully.

In conclusion, Kanye West’s legacy as a rapper, producer, fashion designer, and entrepreneur provides a powerful example of what can be achieved through dedication, creativity, and hard work. His continued influence across various domains is a testament to his unique talent and contributions to the world of music, fashion, and business.

Share this with your friends...

About the author.

John Prince

You might like these articles as well....

David Goggins’ Story of Success: Overcoming Adversity and Achieving Greatness

Tuesday Motivational Quotes: Inspiring Words for a Productive Week

Daymond John’s Net Worth: A Comprehensive Analysis in 2023

Who is Jim Rohn: Unveiling the Legendary Motivational Speaker

• Get Featured
• Our Patreon
• Biographies

Kanye West: Biography, Success Story, American Rapper

Kanye West’s biography is a captivating journey through the life and career of one of the most influential figures in modern music. West’s life story is a testament to talent, creativity, and perseverance from his early days as a producer to his groundbreaking albums, The College Dropout and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy . Enjoy reading captivating Kanye West’s success story.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Ye, born Kanye Omari West, is a multifaceted American artist renowned for his music, fashion, and cultural contributions. Born June 8, 1977, West has made an indelible mark as a rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, and fashion designer. With an impressive 160 million records sold, he is one of the world’s best-selling music artists. West’s musical prowess is evident in his 24 Grammy Awards, a testament to his creative genius and influence in the hip-hop genre, jointly holding the record with Jay-Z for the most Grammy wins among hip-hop artists.

West’s musical journey is adorned with critically acclaimed albums such as  The College Dropout  (2004),  Late Registration  (2005),  Graduation  (2007),  808s & Heartbreak  (2008),  My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy  (2010), and  Yeezus  (2013), all of which have left an indelible mark on the music landscape. His collaborative ventures, including  Watch the Throne  with Jay-Z and  Kids See Ghosts  with Kid Cudi, further showcase his versatility and creativity as an artist.

Beyond music, West’s influence extends to the fashion world, where he has collaborated with renowned brands such as Nike , Louis Vuitton, Gap, and Adidas through his iconic Yeezy line. However, West’s outspoken views and controversial statements have garnered significant media attention, reflecting his complex persona and the intersections of art, culture, and societal discourse. Despite the controversies, West’s artistic contributions resonate globally, solidifying his status as a cultural icon and a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.

Kanye Omari West, a renowned figure in the music and fashion industries, was born on June 8, 1977, in Atlanta, Georgia. Pivotal events marked his upbringing, notably his parents’ divorce when he was just three years old. Following this, he relocated with his mother, Donda C. West, to Chicago, Illinois, leaving behind his father, Ray West, a former Black Panther and a prominent photojournalist.

Growing up in a middle-class environment, West attended the Polaris School for Individual Education in suburban Oak Lawn, Illinois, after initially residing in Chicago. However, at age 10, his life took an unexpected turn when he moved to Nanjing, China, with his mother, a Fulbright scholar teaching at Nanjing University. Despite being the only foreigner in his class, West quickly adapted and even became proficient in the language, although he later admitted to forgetting most of it.

Kanye West was strongly inclined towards the arts from an early age. At age five, he delved into poetry writing and started rapping by the third grade. His musical journey took a severe turn in the seventh grade when he began creating his musical compositions, which he eventually sold to other artists. During this time, he crossed paths with producer No I.D., who played a pivotal role as a friend and mentor to West.

After completing high school, West received a scholarship to the American Academy of Art in Chicago in 1997, where he pursued painting classes. However, his passion for music was insatiable, leading him to transfer to Chicago State University to study English. Despite his academic pursuits, West’s focus shifted decisively towards his musical ambitions, prompting him to drop out of college at the age of 20, much to the initial dismay of his mother, a professor at Chicago State University.

These early experiences and challenges laid the groundwork for Kanye West’s meteoric rise in the music industry as a rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. His unique blend of artistic talent, entrepreneurial spirit, and relentless determination would later see him make significant contributions to the fashion world, solidifying his status as a multifaceted and influential figure in popular culture.

1996–2002: Early Work in Musical Career

Kanye West’s musical journey began in the vibrant Chicago music scene of the mid-1990s. At the tender age of nineteen, he garnered his first production credits on Down to Earth , the 1996 debut album of Grav, an emerging rapper from the local underground scene. This early success set the stage for West’s burgeoning career as a producer, catching the attention of industry stalwarts.

By 1998, West’s talent was recognized by Hip Hop Since 1978, a management-production company founded by Gee Roberson and Kyambo “Hip-Hop” Joshua. Despite facing initial hurdles, including serving as a ghost producer for Deric “D-Dot” Angelettie, West’s prowess in music production became increasingly evident. Alongside his endeavors, he formed the Go-Getters, a collective comprising himself and fellow Chicago artists, releasing their debut studio album, World Record Holders , in 1999 under West’s Konman Productions label.

West’s ascent continued as he transitioned to Roc-A-Fella Records in 2000, where he became an in-house producer. His collaboration with Jay-Z on The Blueprint marked a significant turning point in his career, earning widespread acclaim and cementing his reputation as a visionary producer. Despite facing skepticism from mainstream record labels due to his unconventional style and refusal to conform to the gangsta rap archetype, West’s artistic vision remained unwavering.

However, West’s journey was fraught with challenges, including a life-altering car accident in 2002 that left him with a shattered jaw. Undeterred by adversity, West channeled his resilience and determination into music, recording “Through the Wire” just two weeks after the accident while his jaw remained wired shut. This experience showcased West’s indomitable spirit and laid the foundation for his debut mixtape, Get Well Soon… , released later that year.

Amidst adversity, West announced his ambitious debut album, The College Dropout , signaling a departure from conventional hip-hop tropes. Rooted in themes of self-expression and individuality, the album aimed to challenge societal norms and empower listeners to make their own choices. West’s journey from a budding producer in Chicago to a groundbreaking artist on the brink of stardom exemplifies the transformative power of perseverance and artistic integrity in the face of adversity.

2003–2006:  The College Dropout  and  Late Registration

From 2003 to 2006, West released two critically acclaimed albums that solidified his position as a visionary in the music industry: The College Dropout and Late Registration .

After recovering from a life-threatening car accident, West poured his energy into completing The College Dropout . Despite the album’s initial setbacks, including leaks and postponements, West meticulously revised and enhanced it with new elements such as gospel choirs, string arrangements, and revamped beats. The album’s debut single, “Through the Wire,” which West recorded while his jaw was wired shut, captured audiences with its raw honesty and unique production style. “Slow Jamz,” featuring Twista and Jamie Foxx, also became a massive hit, showcasing West’s versatility and ability to craft chart-topping tracks.

One of the standout songs from The College Dropout was “Jesus Walks,” a bold declaration of faith that defied industry expectations and climbed the charts. This song demonstrated West’s willingness to push boundaries and tackle meaningful themes in his music. The album’s critical and commercial success, earning triple platinum certification and multiple Grammy nominations, catapulted West into the spotlight as a formidable artist and producer.

Building on the momentum of his debut album, West embarked on creating Late Registration , a project that further showcased his musical evolution and ambition. Inspired by live orchestration and collaboration with acclaimed producers like Jon Brion, West crafted a rich, layered sound that seamlessly blended hip-hop with classical elements. Tracks like “Touch the Sky” and “Gold Digger” featuring Jamie Foxx showcased West’s knack for creating catchy yet substantive songs that resonated with audiences worldwide.

While West’s artistic achievements were undeniable, he also faced controversies, such as his passionate outburst at the 2006 MTV Europe Music Awards. However, his ability to reflect, apologize, and even poke fun at himself, as seen in his later appearances on Saturday Night Live, highlighted his growth as an artist and a public figure.

In summary, the period from 2003 to 2006 was transformative for Kanye West. He navigated challenges, embraced creativity, and left an indelible mark on the music landscape with his innovative albums and groundbreaking approach to hip-hop.

2007–2009:  Graduation ,  808s & Heartbreak , and VMAs incident

Between 2007 and 2009, Kanye West’s life story reached new heights and encountered notable controversies. The era began with the release of his third studio album, Graduation , which showcased West’s prowess in the music industry. The album’s debut marked a significant milestone as it surpassed the sales of rapper 50 Cent’s Curtis , solidifying West’s position with a number-one spot on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart and selling a staggering 957,000 copies in its first week. The lead single “Stronger” not only topped the charts but also influenced a wave of experimentation, encouraging artists to blend hip-hop with house and electronica elements, thus contributing to the revival of disco-infused music.

During this period, West faced personal challenges with the loss of his mother in November 2007 and the end of his engagement, which profoundly impacted him. Despite these setbacks, West continued to innovate and surprise the music industry. He announced his fourth album, 808s & Heartbreak , at the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards, introducing a distinctive production style featuring Auto-Tune. The album’s lead single, “Love Lockdown,” and follow-up, “Heartless,” achieved significant chart success, solidifying West’s ability to take creative risks and influence the direction of hip-hop music.

However, it was also during this time that West was involved in a highly publicized incident at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards. While Taylor Swift was receiving her award, West interrupted her speech, sparking widespread criticism and controversies. His actions led to his removal from the show and criticism from various celebrities, including a notable comment from President Barack Obama . Despite initial apologies, West’s reflections on the incident in later interviews added layers to the ongoing dialogue surrounding his public persona and actions.

Overall, 2007 to 2009 was a period of immense musical success and tumultuous public moments for Kanye West, which showcased his multifaceted talents and complex relationship with fame and public perception.

2010–2012:  My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy ,  Watch the Throne , and  Cruel Summer

West refocused on music and fashion after a tumultuous period, including a controversial incident at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards. In a retreat to Hawaii, he delved into the creation of his magnum opus, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy , which hit the shelves in November 2010.

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy was a sonic and thematic departure from West’s previous works. Critics hailed it as his finest work, blending maximalist production with introspective lyrics that explored themes of fame, excess, and personal struggles. Tracks like “All of the Lights,” “Power,” “Monster,” and “Runaway” not only dominated the charts but also showcased West’s artistic evolution and willingness to take creative risks.

West went on a festival tour in 2011, including iconic performances at SWU Music & Arts, Coachella, and Lollapalooza in tandem with his album release. These live shows were lauded as groundbreaking and cemented West’s reputation as a dynamic and innovative performer in the hip-hop genre.

2011 also witnessed West’s collaborative genius with Jay-Z on the album Watch the Throne , which dropped in August. This album was a masterclass in rap excellence, blending their distinct styles seamlessly. “Niggas in Paris” became an anthem, and the Watch the Throne Tour that followed was a spectacle of hip-hop prowess, captivating audiences globally.

In 2012, West continued his creative endeavors by releasing the compilation album Cruel Summer , featuring tracks from artists under his GOOD Music label. During this period, he showcased West’s versatility, collaborative spirit, and ongoing impact on the hip-hop and music scene.

2013–2015:  Yeezus  and the  Yeezus Tour

The genesis of his sixth solo album, Yeezus , began to take shape in early 2013 in a Paris hotel loft. West gathered his trusted collaborators to embark on a sonic exploration that aimed to defy commercial norms. Drawing inspiration from diverse influences, including Chicago drill, dancehall, acid house, and industrial music, West’s vision for Yeezus was revolutionary in the hip-hop landscape.

With meticulous attention to detail and a penchant for perfection, West’s artistic process for Yeezus was challenging and groundbreaking. His collaboration with producer Rick Rubin initiated just fifteen days before the album’s deadline, led to a minimalist approach that stripped down the sound to its raw essence. The album’s release in June 2013 was met with critical acclaim, solidifying West’s reputation as an innovative force in music.

Not content with releasing an album, West embarked on The Yeezus Tour in September 2013, marking his first solo tour in half a decade. Joined by the talented Kendrick Lamar as a supporting act, the tour was more than just a musical journey—it was a visual spectacle that pushed the boundaries of live performance. Critics hailed the tour as “crazily entertaining” and “emotionally affecting,” showcasing West’s ability to create immersive and thought-provoking experiences for his audience.

During this period, West’s creative output extended beyond his projects. Collaborations with musical legends like Paul McCartney and Rihanna resulted in hit singles that further showcased West’s versatility and artistic range. Moreover, his plans for his next studio album, initially known as Yeezus II and later tentatively titled So Help Me God , hinted at a continued evolution in his sound and approach to music.

In May 2015, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago awarded West an honorary doctorate for his multifaceted contributions to music, fashion, and popular culture. This accolade underscored West’s impact as a musician and a cultural icon whose influence extended far beyond the confines of traditional genres.

He remained steadfast despite facing challenges and controversies, such as petitions against his performances at major events, West’s artistic vision, and unwavering commitment to pushing creative boundaries. The period between 2013 and 2015 is a testament to West’s enduring legacy as one of contemporary music’s most influential and innovative figures.

2016–2017:  The Life of Pablo  and Tour Cancellation

In 2016 and 2017, Kanye West’s success story in the music industry continued, with triumphs and challenges that reflected his dynamic and complex career.

In January 2016, West announced the imminent release of his album SWISH on February 11. Leading up to this, he dropped new tracks like “Real Friends” and a snippet of “No More Parties in LA” featuring Kendrick Lamar. However, West is known for his creative spontaneity, and on January 26, 2016, he renamed the album from SWISH to Waves . Amidst this anticipation, West was embroiled in Twitter controversies, adding a layer of buzz to the album’s forthcoming release.

West changed the album’s title again as the release date approached, this time to The Life of Pablo . The album premiered at Madison Square Garden as part of his Yeezy Season 3 presentation. Later, he modified the tracklist and released it exclusively on Tidal on February 14, 2016. West’s continuous tinkering with the album’s mixes and his declaration of the end of the traditional album format added intrigue to the album’s reception.

Amid this musical venture, West announced plans for another summer 2016 album tentatively titled Turbo Grafx 16 . Additionally, he collaborated on the lead single “Champions” from the Cruel Winter album. Not one to shy away from controversy, West released the video for “Famous,” featuring wax figures of prominent figures in a shared bed, sparking conversation and debate.

In August 2016, West embarked on the Saint Pablo Tour , characterized by its innovative mobile stage suspended from the ceiling. However, the tour faced setbacks when West postponed several dates due to personal reasons, including the robbery of his wife, Kim Kardashian , in Paris. These challenges culminated in West canceling the remaining tour dates in November 2016 and seeking psychiatric observation at UCLA Medical Center due to sleep deprivation and dehydration-induced temporary psychosis.

West’s hiatus from public life following this incident highlighted the toll of fame and artistic pressure, marking a reflective period in his career as he regrouped and focused on his well-being before resuming his creative endeavors.

2017–2019:  Ye  and the Wyoming Sessions

In May 2017, reports emerged of West working on new music in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, collaborating with diverse artists. This period set the stage for a prolific era for West’s music career.

By April 2018, West expanded his creative pursuits beyond music. He announced plans for a philosophy book titled Break the Simulation , which he shared “in real time” on Twitter, offering insights that resonated with themes of life coaching.

In the same month, West unveiled ambitious plans for new albums. He announced a solo album and a collaborative project with Kid Cudi under the moniker Kids See Ghosts . These albums were set to release in June, alongside production work on albums by fellow artists from his label GOOD Music.

The rollout of these projects was swift. Pusha T’s Daytona arrived to critical acclaim in May, followed closely by West’s eighth studio album, Ye , which West reportedly re-recorded within a month, indicating a rapid and intense creative process. This period also saw the release of the collaborative album Kids See Ghosts with Kid Cudi, showcasing a dynamic partnership between the two artists.

West’s production work extended to Nas’ Nasir and Teyana Taylor’s K.T.S.E. , rounding off a productive and influential stretch for West as an artist and producer.

The latter part of this phase saw shifts in West’s planned releases. He initially teased his ninth studio album Yandhi and a collaboration with Chance the Rapper titled Good Ass Job . However, Yandhi ‘s release faced multiple delays and was eventually scrapped. Instead, West shifted to a new project titled Jesus Is King, which was announced by his wife, Kim Kardashian.

West’s artistic evolution remained evident despite setbacks and leaks of unreleased music. His ability to navigate plan changes and embrace new creative directions showcased his resilience and continued impact on the music landscape.

2019–2022:  Jesus Is King ,  Donda , and  Donda 2

On January 6, 2019, Kanye West launched his weekly “Sunday Service” events, which featured soulful renditions of his and others’ songs. These gatherings became star-studded affairs, attracting celebrities like the Kardashians, Charlie Wilson, and Kid Cudi. At Coachella 2019, West unveiled a new track, “Water,” during one of these Sunday Service performances, offering a glimpse into his forthcoming album Jesus Is King , which hit the airwaves on October 25, 2019. This album made history by topping Billboard 200, Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, Top Rap Albums, Top Christian Albums, and Top Gospel Albums charts.

Just in time for Christmas in 2019, West and Sunday Service gifted fans with Jesus Is Born , which features 19 songs, including reimagined versions of some of West’s classic hits.

Moving into 2020, West released the single “Wash Us in the Blood” on June 30, featuring Travis Scott. This track was slated to lead his tenth studio album, Donda . However, West later announced a pause in his music releases until he fulfilled his contractual obligations with Sony and Universal. Nevertheless, he surprised fans with the single “Nah Nah Nah” on October 16, 2020.

West spent the summer of 2021 immersed in completing Donda, holding listening parties at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Despite some delays and disputes over the album’s release, It finally dropped on August 29, 2021, followed by a deluxe edition with five new tracks in November.

In a notable reconciliation, West and Drake confirmed plans for the “Free Larry Hoover” benefit concert in December 2021, marking a significant moment in their relationship.

As 2022 began, West was announced as one of the headliners for Coachella and released the first single for Donda 2 , “Eazy,” featuring The Game. Future executives produced this album and showcased it at a Miami listening event. However, West’s presence at various events became sporadic as he withdrew from headlining commitments at Coachella and Rolling Loud.

By December 2022, West was embroiled in controversy due to controversial statements. Yet, he continued to express himself through music, dropping the introspective track “Someday We’ll All Be Free” on his Instagram.

2023–present:  Vultures  trilogy and  Y3

Since 2023, Kanye West has been actively working on his musical ventures, leading up to the release of his Vultures trilogy and his upcoming solo album Y3 .

In August 2023, reports surfaced about West gearing up for his eleventh studio album. The anticipation grew further in October when news broke that he had wrapped up a collaborative effort with Ty Dolla Sign. Although the album was initially slated for an immediate release, it was delayed for unspecified reasons, building excitement among fans for its eventual drop.

The buzz around their collaboration escalated when they announced a “multi-stadium listening event” to showcase their joint project. This event occurred on November 3, preceding the release of the lead single “Vultures” featuring Bump J, which hit the airwaves on November 22, 2023. Subsequent versions of the song, featuring Lil Durk and produced by Mobb Deep’s Havoc, garnered more attention.

West and Ty Dolla $ign organized several listening parties, dubbed “Vultures Rave,” in cities like Miami, Las Vegas, Chicago, and the New York City area. These events gave fans a taste of their collaboration.

As excitement peaked, West surprised fans with news of a Vultures trilogy. The trailer for this musical journey dropped in January 2024, announcing staggered releases of the trilogy’s volumes on February 9, March 6, and April 5, 2024. This move added an element of intrigue and anticipation, hinting at the diverse sounds and themes each volume would explore.

Simultaneously, West’s solo project Y3 gained traction. During an interview, rapper Erick Sermon revealed insights into the album’s creation process, showcasing West’s musical evolution.

Finally, on February 10, 2024, the curtain was lifted as the first volume of the Vultures trilogy, Vultures 1, hit the music scene. The album soared to the top of the charts, claiming the number-one spot on the Billboard 200. This marked West’s eleventh consecutive chart-topper and Ty Dolla Sign’s first number-one album, cementing their impact on the music industry again.

Musical Style

Since his debut, West has continually pushed the boundaries of hip-hop, blending diverse musical elements while infusing his lyrics with thought-provoking themes. Critics have noted his ability to fuse multiple genres into hip-hop, challenging conventional notions of what defines artistic music. His rhymes are praised for their wit, social commentary, and emotional depth, showcasing a range from sharp observations to playful bravado to introspective reflections.

Early in his career, West pioneered the “chipmunk-soul” style of production, characterized by sampling and manipulating vintage soul music to create unique beats. His debut album, The College Dropout (2004), set the stage for his signature style, combining intricate hip-hop beats with lyrics touching on topics such as education, materialism, societal issues, and personal struggles.

As his career progressed, West delved into various music genres, drawing inspiration from chamber pop (Late Registration – 2005), arena rock and europop ( Graduation – 2007), synth-driven electropop ( 808s & Heartbreak – 2008), and even more experimental sounds like acid-house, drill, industrial rap, and trap ( Yeezus – 2013). His exploration continued with forays into gospel and Christian rap ( The Life of Pablo – 2016, Jesus is King – 2019, Donda – 2021) and psychedelic music ( Kids See Ghosts – 2018).

West’s musical evolution reflects his constant quest for innovation and artistic expression, cementing his position as one of the most influential figures in contemporary music.

In the spring of 2006, West launched his own fashion line, and since then, he has made significant strides. He pioneered sneaker collaborations, such as the Air Yeezys with Nike in 2009. He also debuted his shoe line for Louis Vuitton during Paris Fashion Week in the same year. West continued his foray into high fashion by interning at Italian brands like Fendi and unveiling his women’s fashion label at Paris Fashion Week in 2011. In 2013, he partnered with Adidas, which created the iconic Yeezy Boosts and a groundbreaking Yeezy clothing line in 2015. Despite some ups and downs, including the termination of partnerships with brands like Adidas and GAP in 2022, West’s influence on the intersection of music and fashion remains undeniable.

Enterprises

In 2004, Kanye West founded the record label and production company GOOD Music , which has seen remarkable success with ten gold-certified or higher albums by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). West’s creative ventures extended into the culinary world when he ventured into the restaurant business, opening Fatburger locations in the Chicago area in the late 2000s. Additionally, he established the creative content company Donda in 2012, named after his late mother, focusing on innovative design and product experiences. With a keen eye for diverse industries, West announced the launch of Yeezy Home, an architecture firm, in 2018, showcasing his multidimensional approach to creativity and business.

Philanthropy

In 2003, West co-founded the Kanye West Foundation in Chicago to combat dropout rates and promote music education among underprivileged youth. Following the passing of his mother, the foundation was renamed The Dr. Donda West Foundation. Additionally, West has been actively involved in disaster relief efforts, participating in benefit concerts for Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012. His philanthropic endeavors extended to significant donations, such as $10 million towards the Roden Crater project and a $2 million contribution towards supporting families affected by police brutality incidents in 2020. West’s philanthropic initiatives reflect his commitment to positively impacting communities in need.

Acting and Filmmaking

Kanye West has delved into acting and filmmaking, showcasing his talents beyond music. He made cameo appearances in films like State Property 2 (2005) and The Love Guru (2008), as well as in the television show Entourage in 2007. West’s voice was featured in the animated sitcom The Cleveland Show as “Kenny West,” a rapper character. He further explored his creativity by writing, directing, and starring in short films like We Were Once a Fairytale (2009) and Runaway (2010), featuring music from his album My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy . In 2012, he presented another short film, Cruel Summer , at the Cannes Film Festival. Additionally, West announced the launch of his film production company, Half Beast, LLC, and a documentary titled Jeen-Yuhs , tracing his journey from his early days in Chicago to his presidential run, was acquired by Netflix for $30 million.

Presidential Campaign 2020 and 2024

In 2020, amidst much fanfare and skepticism, Kanye West announced his bid for the presidency in the United States. His campaign was characterized by unique twists, including choosing preacher Michelle Tidball as his running mate and adopting the “Birthday Party” label. Despite facing speculation about the nature of his run and his grasp on various policy issues, West actively participated in the race, holding rallies and putting forward a platform emphasizing themes like environmental stewardship, support for the arts, and faith-based initiatives. Ultimately, West conceded after garnering thousands of votes across several states, making his campaign a blend of political ambition and intrigue in the American electoral landscape.

West has expressed his intentions to run for president again in 2024, reaffirming this stance in November 2019 during an event where he humorously mentioned creating jobs to the point of “walking” into office. While his plans seemed uncertain at times, with mentions of potential candidacies for governorship and hints through various mediums, West officially announced his intention to run for the presidency in 2024 on November 20, 2022. Despite some contradictory statements from his attorney, the public continues to anticipate West’s potential role in the upcoming election cycle.

Views of Kanye West

Kanye West’s biography has been marked by controversy and outspokenness, drawing praise and criticism from various quarters. His public statements and actions have often sparked intense debates and reactions. Notably, in 2005, West openly criticized the media and government’s response to Hurricane Katrina, delivering a memorable statement on live television about then-President George Bush. Over the years, West’s views on topics like abortion and historical issues such as African enslavement have also stirred discussions and controversies.

West’s remarks have become increasingly contentious in recent years, leading to severe consequences. His antisemitic statements in late 2022 triggered widespread backlash and resulted in the termination of several collaborations and partnerships with major brands and organizations. West’s association with controversial figures and interview remarks further fueled the controversy. The impact of his statements extended beyond social media, with reported instances of hate speech and related incidents attributed to his rhetoric, as highlighted by the Anti-Defamation League’s 2023 report.

Amidst mounting criticism, West faced significant consequences, such as terminating his Twitter account. However, in July 2023, Twitter reinstated his account following assurances that it would refrain from harmful content. As he gears up for the release of his upcoming album in December 2023, West publicly apologized for his antisemitic remarks, signaling a step towards reconciliation and accountability within the industry and the wider community.

Personal Life

In 2021, Kanye West’s net worth reached an impressive $1.8 billion. However, by October 2022, his net worth plummeted to $400 million due to Adidas terminating its partnership with him after he made a series of public antisemitic statements. This significant change in his financial standing highlighted the impact of external factors on West’s wealth trajectory.

Apart from the financial changes, West made a significant personal decision. In August 2021, he applied to legally change his name from “Kanye Omari West” to simply “Ye,” without a middle or last name. The change was granted in October of the same year, with West citing “personal reasons” for this alteration. This move reflected West’s long-standing desire as he had been using “Ye” as a nickname for several years prior, indicating a deeper personal connection to the name beyond its linguistic significance.

Kim Kardashian

In April 2012, Kanye West and reality TV star Kim Kardashian began a romantic relationship. They had been friends for a long time. They got engaged in October 2013 and had a grand wedding ceremony in May 2014 at Fort di Belvedere in Florence. The media made a fuss about their private ceremony, highlighting the public’s immense interest in their union, which some called “a historic blizzard of celebrity.”

During their marriage, West and Kardashian welcomed four children into their family. North West was born in June 2013, followed by Saint West in December 2015, Chicago West via surrogate in January 2018, and Psalm West via surrogate in May 2019. The media paid close attention to their family life, scrutinizing their parenting choices and public statements.

The couple’s relationship faced strains, especially when West expressed anti-abortion views during a presidential campaign rally in July 2020. This caused tensions, and Kardashian considered the implications of their differing stances on specific issues, leading to divorce discussions. In February 2021, Kardashian filed for divorce, marking the end of their high-profile marriage. Their divorce settlement was finalized in November 2022. It includes arrangements for joint custody of their children and financial support, highlighting the complexities of separating a public and intertwined life.

In December 2006, Robert “Evel” Knievel filed a lawsuit against Kanye West for trademark infringement related to West’s “Touch the Sky” music video. Knievel claimed that West’s persona as “Evel Kanyevel” in the video, which he considered “vulgar and offensive,” tarnished his image. The lawsuit sought damages and an injunction against the video’s distribution. West’s legal team defended the video as satirical, protected under the First Amendment. Before his passing in November 2007, Knievel settled the suit after meeting West, expressing positive sentiments toward him.

In 2014, West faced legal trouble again following an incident with a paparazzo at Los Angeles Airport, resulting in a misdemeanor battery conviction. He was sentenced to two years’ probation, mandated anger management sessions, community service, and restitution to the photographer. A civil lawsuit stemming from the altercation was also settled in 2015. West’s legal team successfully appealed for the conviction to be expunged from his record in 2016, as reported by TMZ. These legal challenges highlighted the intersection of celebrity life and the legal responsibilities of Kanye West during that period.

Religion Beliefs

Kanye West openly discussed his spiritual beliefs after releasing his song “Jesus Walks” from The College Dropout album. He referred to himself as “spiritual” and acknowledged Jesus as his Savior while admitting he fell short daily. West’s views on faith have evolved over the years. In 2008, he described himself as feeling like a “vessel” chosen by God to be a voice and connector. By 2014, he openly identified as a Christian during his concerts, marking a significant point in his religious journey.

In September 2019, his wife Kim Kardashian highlighted West’s transformation, mentioning his “amazing evolution” towards being “born again” and finding salvation in Christ. West himself talked about his past struggles with serving “multiple gods,” including ego, money, pride, and fame, which led to confusion. However, by October 2019, he had fully embraced Christianity, expressing his love for Jesus Christ and a deeper understanding of salvation, signifying a profound shift in his religious beliefs.

Mental Health

On November 19, 2016,  Kanye West  experienced a significant mental health event during a concert, leading to his abrupt departure and subsequent hospitalization at UCLA Medical Center. Reports indicated that he was suffering from hallucinations and paranoia , resulting in the cancellation of several concerts. Although initially attributed to temporary psychosis due to dehydration and sleep deprivation, West’s mental state during that period remained abnormal enough to trigger insurance coverage for the canceled shows.

During his hospitalization, West faced challenges with paranoia and depression, although he remained formally undiagnosed at the time. His experiences were reflected in his music, notably in songs like “FML” and “I Feel Like That,” where he alluded to struggles with depression, anxiety, and substance use. West revealed in a 2018 interview that he had battled opioid addiction following prescribed medication after a liposuction procedure, which might have contributed to his breakdown in 2016.

West’s mental health situation also involved grappling with bipolar disorder, a diagnosis he disclosed in his 2018 album  Ye . Despite initially questioning the diagnosis, he seemed to accept it later, only to raise doubts again in subsequent years. In December 2022, he even suggested the possibility of being autistic, highlighting the complexity and evolving nature of his mental health journey. These experiences shed light on the challenges faced by individuals dealing with mental health issues in the public eye.

Awards and Achievements

Kanye West has accomplished a lot throughout his career, cementing his position as one of the most influential figures in music. Here are some of his notable achievements:

• West is recognized as the fourth-highest certified artist in the US for digital singles, with an impressive 69 million singles.
• He holds the record for the most RIAA digital song certifications by a male artist in the 2000s, with 19 certifications.
• West ranks as the US’s fourth best-selling digital song artist of the 2000s.
• In Spotify’s first decade (2008 to 2018), he was the sixth most-streamed artist and reached one billion streams in record time, ranking as the fourth-fastest artist to reach this milestone.
• West’s studio albums have consistently debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, setting a joint record of nine consecutive number-one debuts.
• He has received immense critical acclaim, topping the annual Pazz & Jop Critics’ Poll four times, a feat he shares with music legend Bob Dylan.
• In terms of awards, West has received a staggering 75 Grammy nominations and won 24 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most successful Grammy recipients.
• West was the first solo artist to have his initial three albums nominated for Album of the Year at the Grammys.
• He has won various prestigious awards, including the Webby Award for Artist of the Year, International Man of the Year at the GQ Awards, and a Clio Award for The Life of Pablo Album Experience.
• West’s groundbreaking albums have also received recognition, with several of them named among the greatest albums of all time by publications like Rolling Stone and Entertainment Weekly.

These accomplishments highlight West’s enormous impact on the music industry and his enduring legacy as a pioneering artist and cultural icon.

In conclusion, Kanye West’s biography stands as a remarkable success story in the music industry. His innovative approach to music, numerous accolades, and impact on pop culture have solidified his status as a trailblazer and cultural icon. West’s legacy continues to inspire aspiring artists and fans alike, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

Similar Posts:

• The 25 Richest Rappers in the World
• Kesha: Biography, Success Story, American Singer
• Taylor Swift: Biography, Success Story, Singer-Songwriter
• Drake: Biography, Success Story, Canadian Rapper
• Will Smith: Biography, Success Story, American Actor

Related posts

Galileo galilei: biography, italian astronomer, discoveries, marie curie: biography, scientist, and 'radioactivity', nikola tesla: biography, serbian-american inventor, isaac newton: biography, discoveries, theory of gravitation.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

• What Is Cinema?
• Newsletters

Cultivating Jeen-yuhs: The Documentary Saga of Kanye West

By Malik Peay

Way before Kanye West reached stratospheric success—and changed his name legally to Ye—he was an instinctive beat-maker and a dreamer from the South Side of Chicago. “There were these [moments] when you see Kanye making a beat—it truly is his passion,” says Chike Ozah over Zoom. “You could watch Kanye West for 30 minutes, and it's him as a professor in his zone. You hear [his art] from inception to completion. When Kanye comes up with a verse, he just sees it.”

Ozah is one of the directors behind Jeen-yuhs, a Netflix docuseries following West’s journey from striver to superstar. Ozah and his codirector, Clarence “Coodie” Simmons, have been along for nearly the entire ride: Simmons joined West’s early posse as a novice videographer in 2002. In 2003, he and Ozah shot West’s pivotal “Through the Wire” music video —aiming their lens at a determined producer on a mission to prove that he could also rap. At the time, West’s jaw was wired shut after a near-fatal car accident.

On February 10, Jeen-yuhs ’s first installment hit theaters; the full three-episode, nearly five-hour limited series will be released on Netflix February 16. Below, Simmons and Ozah elaborate on watching a musical wunderkind graduate into an influential force, and scouring through intimate, never-before-seen footage of West and his beloved late mother, Donda.

Vanity Fair: What pieces of footage were the most surreal to revisit, and hardest to uncover?

Chike Ozah: The footage where present tense has another meaning. A perfect example would be when Kanye went to the hotel room, and he is talking about being so disappointed because [journalists] were calling him “Kanye.” [As he says in the documentary] “They might, in fact, as well just call me, Ye!” Now he [legally] changed his name to Ye. So I feel like those are the Easter eggs. We didn’t discover that until it happened in real time, while we were actually making the doc.

Clarence “Coodie” Simmons: When Kanye and Rhymefest were talking about genius in 2014, we came up with the name Jeen-yuhs, because we were going to do the doc with Kanye then. Fast-forward during the pandemic: Our editors discovered this footage of him and Rhymefest talking about him not being a genius. The message we decided that we were going to tell, we saw in Donda’s footage. You have to understand the messages that she was giving Kanye, she was about to give to the world. For every dreamer and every kid, she is going to be that guide…. Her words would be just as powerful to the next generation as [they were] to Kanye.

What was it like to be a fly on the wall as a novice filmmaker when you started shooting with Kanye?

Simmons: We always say you can’t let your imagination get in the way of God’s manifestation. I would have never imagined all the things that we would be going through throughout this whole journey. When I’m around him, he’s the same person that I filmed on 95th on the South Side when he had cornrows. But he’s a mega-megastar now. Being with him, I forget that he is that person until we walk outside of a store, and there are 100 or so people outside trying to take pictures of him. I thought, Wait a minute. Who am I with?

By Chris Murphy

By Julie Miller

By Savannah Walsh

You’ve made other documentaries, and have directed several of Kanye’s music videos. What was different about making Jeen-yuhs ?

Simmons: Everything up to this point was a rehearsal for this moment. From “Through the Wire” to Stephon Marbury [the subject of the duo’s 2019 doc, A Kid from Coney Island ], we got an amazing squad. And the squad that we put together, God put together. We use the same editors that we used for Stephon Marbury for this project, Jason Harper and Max Allman. Then the same guys who scored Muhammad Ali: The People’s Champ scored this…. Everything just came together to tell this story, and that is why we always say, God writes and Jesus directs.

Ozah: We were put in a position to throw everything into this. It is rare at times that we are able to throw everything we got, stylistically and sonically, and to be able to do these mash-ups with this raw footage and give this look. That is such an epitome of us—Coodie and I. Our stylistic journey over the years and the impression that we’ve always kind of been trying to make through all these other films, this is the one film that encapsulates all of that.

How do you think longtime Kanye West fans will react to the footage of Donda with her son?

Ozah: Hopefully, we’re able to penetrate through the fandom, and in light of what they’re expecting to see, they appreciate what we’re showing them—but they also get the message. It is bigger than Kanye. It is bigger than the message of really just unlocking your inner genius and your passion. It is being able to figure out how to move on that or if you’re already moving in it, just the affirmation to continue moving forward. They will garner an appreciation of either the new knowledge or just more context behind certain things that they might not have had any context [for] before.

Like Kanye, you grew up in Chicago. What aspects of your upbringing and culture are highlighted most in Jeen-yuhs ?

Simmons: Just to conquer Chicago. To find your way and be successful in Chicago is kind of hard. Martin Luther King even said he has never seen that much hate in anybody’s eyes until he came to Chicago.

We had no music industry…. I remember when [Chicago native] Common moved to New York, everyone was disappointed—but that was the only way Common was going to be able to really be heard worldwide. He was a celebrity in Chicago, and so was Kanye. They kind of had to find a way to make their way to New York. That’s when Jay-Z [discovered Kanye], and saw his amazing talent. And then I had the idea to do this documentary.

I actually got carjacked, and that was the reason why I was able to move to New York. I took that money and took that adversity and made it something. Chicago is an amazing city, but it’s definitely harder to make it out of Chicago. They say if you can make it out of Chicago, you can make it anywhere.

— Amazon’s Lord of the Rings Series Rises: Inside The Rings of Power — Renée Zellweger Is Unrecognizable as a Midwestern Murdering Mom — Oscar Nominations: The Biggest Snubs and Surprises — Oprah Winfrey Reveals the Glorious New Color Purple Cast — Beware the Tinder Swindler, a Real-Life Dating-App Villain — W. Kamau Bell Is Terrified for People to See His Bill Cosby Docuseries — The Artist, the Madonna, and the Last Known Portrait of Jeffrey Epstein — From the Archive: Inside Bill Cosby’s 12-Year Battle of Denials, Doubts, and Legal Machinations — Sign up for the “HWD Daily” newsletter for must-read industry and awards coverage—plus a special weekly edition of “Awards Insider.”

By Eve Batey

By Bess Levin

By Kase Wickman

By David Canfield

By Erin Vanderhoof

Find anything you save across the site in your account

Kanye West’s Quest for Recognition

By Sheldon Pearce

Years ago, the filmmaker Coodie Simmons abandoned his dream of becoming a standup comedian to follow around a young rapper named Kanye West . The two met in 1998, when Simmons was the on-air correspondent for “Channel Zero,” a public-access show that he had co-created to document Chicago’s hip-hop scene. Simmons became West’s videographer soon afterward, and has since spent much of his life watching—and, in some ways, creating—Kanye West. His years of accumulated footage are the basis for “Jeen-yuhs,” a three-part docuseries on Netflix, which charts the rapper’s spectacular (and often painful) ascent. Simmons is both a narrator and a participant in the story, implicated not only by his camerawork but by the fact that he was one of the earliest believers in West’s wild ambitions. In this way, the series is also a document of an unusual on-and-off friendship, told across more than two decades.

The documentary’s first two and a half hours follow West not as a star but as a striver trying to persuade everyone else to see him as one. (Through a quality you could call hubris or intuition, West invited Simmons to start recording behind-the-scenes footage for a documentary long before he released his first album.) The first and second episodes, subtitled “Vision” and “Purpose,” chronicle his journey from production phenom, in 1998, to Grammy Award-winning rapper, in 2005. Simmons convincingly shows the precarity of West’s early career, and the blind self-esteem that carried him through. The first episode shows the rapper arriving uninvited to the offices of Roc-A-Fella Records, hoping to be heard by anyone. (At this point, he was an unsigned producer for the label, and wasn’t taken seriously as a rap prospect.) He shuffles from room to room, turning off whatever music is playing and replacing it with his demo; he awkwardly raps lyrics from what would eventually become his single “All Falls Down.” West doesn’t get the response he’s looking for, but that doesn’t stop him from pulling a similar stunt in the hotel room of Dame Dash, the label’s president, only to receive the same treatment.

The real subject of “Jeen-yuhs” is the rare, nearly monomaniacal focus that West has become notorious for. He pursues opportunity and validation at nearly every turn, constantly straining to parlay his freestyles into something bigger. We often see him sitting studiously before a beat machine or a soundboard, working as other people stir in the background. Even the setbacks are incorporated into the grander scheme. In 2002, West was in an accident that shattered his jaw. The injury, which threatened to end his rap career, became fuel for a song called “Through the Wire.” He gets Simmons to film one of his dentist appointments—that way, he can use the footage for the music video.

One of the most affecting developments in the series is West’s journey to “Def Poetry Jam,” which he auditions for in an act of defiance against his indifferent record label. In his audition tape, recorded by Simmons, West raps drafts of early songs directly into the camera, his flow ragged but spirited. He becomes more composed in the weeks before the show, performing a verse in progress that the rapper Mos Def co-signs. When West finally hits the stage, presenting “Self Conscious,” an a-cappella rendition of lyrics from “All Falls Down,” he seems like a star in the making for the first time.

As “ The College Dropout ,” West’s début album, comes together, the energy gradually starts to change, and we see more people’s opinions of the rapper begin to sync up with his view of himself. Simmons asks celebrities what they think of West, eagerly collecting testimonies of other converts. In one endearing moment, the Houston legend Scarface acknowledges West’s talent as a rapper and then chastises him for removing his mouth guard, which West had set gently on the console before them to perform his verse. The litany of triumphs culminates in Dame Dash finally committing to West’s début. (The exec was convinced after seeing the initial screening of the “Through the Wire” video, with the footage from the dentist’s office.)

The series never presents any cohesive theory of creative genius, nor does it make a case for West as such a figure. In a way, it posits that West’s real gift is his infectious self-conviction. A few of West’s associates have stayed by his side the whole time (or most of it). Rhymefest, a sideman who proffers his theories of genius in early footage (“Who are you to call yourself a genius?”), is still with him during his doomed Presidential campaign . Simmons, who lost touch with West for several years, makes it seem like he would have done the same if he could have. Other high-profile characters, such as John Legend and Olskool Ice-Gre, step in and out of his orbit. In the course of the documentary’s five and a half hours, we meet a whole roster of people—Mos Def and Pharrell Williams among them—whose collaboration and endorsement have created the artist we know now. Maybe genius isn’t genius until people start buying in.

Simmons finds a counterpoint to the hypemen in West’s mother, Donda. In a handful of intimate vignettes, captured inside her apartment, in West’s childhood home, and during promotional events for her charity, she comes across as a centering influence in the rapper’s life. (It is clear that Simmons, like many, sees her death as the catalyst for the messy years that have followed.) Crucially, she appears as both the source of the rapper’s confidence and a grounding force that keeps his confidence in check. In one scene, Donda offers her son a prescient warning: “It be important to remember that the giant looks in the mirror and sees nothing.”

The third and final episode of the series, titled “Awakening,” diverts from the first two in tone and content. It covers a much longer span, including the six years when Simmons and West drifted apart. It was during that time—2008 to 2014—that West became the biggest rapper in the world. With Simmons now a distant spectator, like everyone else, this part of the series leans more heavily on TV and concert footage that charts West’s tumultuous rise, a jeering montage of segments that present West as unstable—the Taylor Swift incident , the President Obama comment, the BBC rant. (Simmons, for his part, notes that this is the first time West had “lost the people.”) We learn, too, about Simmons—his daughter’s birth, the last time he saw his father, the development of his directing career—and what he did in his years without West. Here, the work reveals itself as a story of proximity to stardom, and not just stardom itself.

By the time the two reunite, in a get-together orchestrated by Ice-Gre, we can see that the dynamic has shifted. The rapper, once desperate for outside approval, is now the only voice that matters. West barely reacts to Simmons’s attempts to engage with him, or even to gauge how and what he is feeling. The episode shows that the collaborative atmosphere, which powered the success of “The College Dropout,” is no longer a function of West’s process. People are always around, but there seems to be less community. Near the end, we see him shushing all encroaching criticism from unseen associates as he watches Tucker Carlson endorse his chaotic 2020 Presidential rally on Fox News. The dissenting voices quickly fall silent, and you can practically see the vindication surging through the rapper’s body as he receives the exact reaction he’s been looking for.

Simmons seems conflicted about the figure he helped create. He appears to find some comfort, and even hope, in West rediscovering his Christianity and dedicating his tenth album to his mother. But the work shakes off any stable conclusions: it is impossible to forget that the story is unresolved, that its subject is volatile, even dangerous. By the third act, the rapper’s mental illness is not just apparent but unavoidable; he becomes prone to rambling outbursts and dramatic mood swings. It’s in “Awakening” that Simmons begins cutting the camera mid-monologue, saying it feels wrong to record the rapper in such a state. This comes across as both a kindness and a disposal of evidence. One of Simmons’s final recordings follows West in a meeting with the designer Tina Frey, during which the rapper rattles off a list of completely ridiculous objectives. “I just feel that this crew that’s coming together is going to change education, change sanitation, change meditation, change the way we think, the way we connect with the earth, the way we connect with God,” he begins, and then the footage starts to fade out.

New Yorker Favorites

Why facts don’t change our minds .

The tricks rich people use to avoid taxes .

The man who spent forty-two years at the Beverly Hills Hotel pool .

How did polyamory get so popular ?

The ghostwriter who regrets working for Donald Trump .

Snoozers are, in fact, losers .

Fiction by Jamaica Kincaid: “Girl”

Sign up for our daily newsletter to receive the best stories from The New Yorker .

By signing up, you agree to our User Agreement and Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

By Inkoo Kang

By Adam Douglas Thompson

By Anna Wiener

Take it From Me: Kanye West

The hip-hop star with 8 Grammy nominations speaks his mind about his success and facing mortality

Luckily, pretty much everyone agrees with West's self-regard. Critics lauded The College Dropout , his debut album , for its musical complexity and nimble lyrics. The songs present a portrait of life both funny and fierce, which seems appropriate, given the album's backstory.

In 2002, West fell asleep at the wheel of his Lexus. He ended up in intensive care, his face shattered, with doctors telling him he was fortunate to be alive.

Given a reprieve, the Chicago-raised Atlanta native has seized every chance to make his mark, producing albums for Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, and Ludacris; launching the Kanye West Foundation to help keep kids in school ; and cutting a follow-up album, Late Registration , which is even more audacious than his first. Earlier this year, West was named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People, an honor he shared with Bill Gates and the Dalai Lama.

Obviously, West's self-assurance is working for him. Maybe a touch of that attitude might work for you, too.

ON SPEAKING YOUR MIND

It's hard for me to speak without a message. It just comes out of me. What if you bought a Kanye West album and it was all party songs? It would probably suck the breath out of you, like, "Oh my God, what the hell is this?"

People come to me to get some type of food for their souls. I see it, I guess, as a responsibility at this point. It's important that if you're a comedian , you entertain. If you're a politician, make policy. But I'm me. I mix these things. I'm the rap version of Dave Chappelle.

ON CONFIDENCE

Confidence is a positive thing. People say, "Yo, you're too confident ." That to me is like saying, "Yo, you're too optimistic." The person who says that is someone who's setting out to lose. I would hope my confidence rubs off on people.

There was a point last year where I put up this false modesty, this humble act, just because I was tired of hearing it. Then I saw this home videotape of my grand-father, and he started off like, "You have met the master. Now let me explain why I'm the master." Then I realized that I come by it naturally.

So I say to critics, "Kiss the ring. Bow down." And to everyone who wants to dis me: "Would you rather I not make music?"

ON SAYING THANKS TO YOUR PARENTS

I wrote the song "Hey Mama," on my new record, as a tribute to my mother . I actually have it tattooed on my arm. My mom was my original manager. She paid for a keyboard when I was 15 that was completely beyond what any kid should have at that age. She's always supported me.

It's impossible to specify all the things you learn from your parents. I could talk about it for a year. The main thing is, my mother influenced me in music, and my father was also an artist and a photographer, so having that eye influenced me. Both of them were always activists and socially responsible. Now, it's part of who I am.

ON FACING MORTALITY

You know, I used to pray to God to deliver me from pain, and then I had the worst pain inflicted on me, unimaginable pain, so I stopped praying for that. I know it's cliche, but what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. I'm proof of that.

Now I'm just not scared of death. Everything I do is as if I already passed away. Every move I make. I live like I've already passed away--like I have nothing to lose.

I'm not living particularly to make money or to have a song go number one. I'm more living to carve my place in history. The best way to do that is to help other people. You can't make it just by helping yourself. The more people you can help, the better chance you have of being remembered.

ON STANDING BEHIND YOUR WORK

I know what I'm doing. I might have designed the sound of music for the next decade. If you ask me about my music, about how I've impacted the world, I will argue that my first album is one of the best freshman albums ever. That's not me being a fan of me, but me being a fan of music.

So don't ask me about that if you don't want my opinion. People ask me, "How you doing?" I'll be like, "Yo, great. I'm Kanye West. How can I not be great?" My life is a dream come true.

WEST'S WISDOM

1. You have to be your own biggest fan.

2. If you're good at something and you point that out, it's not bragging. It's honesty.

3. If you have a platform, don't just shout. Shout about things that matter.

4. Your true legacy is how you impact other people.

.css-1fpt53b{height:1.25rem;}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1fpt53b{overflow:unset;line-height:1.25rem;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-1fpt53b{line-height:1.25rem;}}.css-1fpt53b:before{background-color:#D2232E;color:#fff;margin-right:0.625rem;width:1.25rem;height:1.25rem;content:'';display:block;} Life

5 Guys With the Guts to Change Careers at 50+

Live Music's Return Has Me Feeling Human Again

8 Functional Items to Make Your House a Home

He-Men and Holy Rollers

Dispatches From the Fast Track

The Best Natural Wonders in the U.S.

A Guide to the Ridiculous New World of Tipping

Cole Hauser Wants You to Get Up and Get Sh*t Done

7 Science Moments That Will Make 2024 Awesome

How a Compulsive Gambler Got Clean After a Relapse

Music Repaired This Father-Son Bond Prison Broke

• Kardashians News
• Biographies
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Kanye West: A Journey Through His Life and Career

Kanye West is a name that resonates with millions around the world. A rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, and fashion designer, West has left an indelible mark on the music industry. But who is Kanye West, and how did he become the figure he is today?

Early Life and Education

Born Kanye Omari West on June 8, 1977, in Atlanta, Georgia, West’s journey to stardom began in Chicago, Illinois, where he was raised. His parents divorced when he was three, and he moved with his mother, Donda West, to Chicago. His father, Ray West, was a former Black Panther and one of the first black photojournalists at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Introduction to Music and Early Career

West’s love for music was evident from an early age. He began writing poetry at five and started rapping in the third grade. By the seventh grade, he was making musical compositions and selling them to other artists. His early career saw him producing for local artists and later for well-known figures on Roc-A-Fella Records.

The Go-Getters and Early Production Work

Before his solo career took off, West was part of a rap group called the Go-Getters. He also worked as a ghost producer for Deric “D-Dot” Angelettie. Despite his growing success as a producer, West’s ambition was to be a rapper. However, his style did not fit the “gangsta” image prevalent in mainstream hip-hop at the time, leading to many record companies overlooking him.

Breakthrough with ‘The College Dropout’

West’s breakthrough came with his debut album, ‘The College Dropout’, released in 2004. The album was a critical and commercial success, establishing West as a force in the music industry. It also led to the formation of his record label, GOOD Music.

Formation of GOOD Music

In the sameyear, West founded GOOD Music, a record label that would house several artists and producers, including John Legend and No I.D. West’s influence extended beyond his own music, as he produced singles for various artists under the label.

Success and Impact of ‘The College Dropout’

‘The College Dropout’ was a game-changer, not just for West, but for hip-hop as a genre. The album’s success lay in its relatability and its divergence from the dominant gangsta rap narrative. West’s introspective lyrics and innovative use of soul samples resonated with a wide audience, earning him widespread acclaim and numerous Grammy nominations.

Continued Success: ‘Late Registration’ to ‘Graduation’

West continued to push boundaries with his subsequent albums, ‘Late Registration’ and ‘Graduation’. Incorporating diverse musical elements and collaborating with a range of artists, West’s music evolved, solidifying his status as a trailblazer in the industry.

Experimentation and Evolution of Sound

From orchestras and synthesizers on ‘Late Registration’ to electronic influences on ‘Graduation’, West’s music continually evolved. His willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of hip-hop set him apart from his contemporaries.

Commercial Success and Recognition

Both ‘Late Registration’ and ‘Graduation’ were commercial successes, with hit singles like “Gold Digger” and “Stronger” dominating charts worldwide. West’s music also continued to receive critical acclaim, further cementing his place in the annals of hip-hop history.

Personal Struggles and ‘808s & Heartbreak’

Despite his professional success, West’s personal life was fraught with challenges. The death of his mother in 2007 had a profound impact on him, influencing his subsequent work, notably the introspective and auto-tune heavy ‘808s & Heartbreak’.

Impact of Personal Losses on Music

The loss of his mother and the end of his engagement to Alexis Phifer led to a shift in West’s music. ‘808s & Heartbreak’ was a departure from his previous work, featuring a minimalist, auto-tune heavy sound, and introspective lyrics reflecting his personal struggles.

Shift in Musical Style and Public Reception

‘808s & Heartbreak’ was met with mixed reviews upon its release. However, it has since been recognized for its influence on the direction of hip-hop and its role in paving the way for a new generation of “emo” rappers.

‘My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy’ and ‘Watch the Throne’

Following a brief hiatus from music, West returned with ‘My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy’, a critically acclaimed album that many consider his best work. He also collaborated with Jay-Z on ‘Watch the Throne’, further demonstrating his versatility as an artist.

Return to Music and Critical Acclaim

‘My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy’ marked a triumphant return for West. The album was hailed as a masterpiece, with critics praising its ambitious concepts and stunning production. ‘Watch the Throne’ was also a success, showcasing the chemistry between West and Jay-Z.

Collaboration with Jay-Z and Influence on Hip-Hop

‘Watch the Throne’ was more than just a successful album; it was a cultural event. The collaboration between two of hip-hop’s biggest stars was a major moment for the genre, influencing future collaborative projects in the industry.

Controversies and ‘Yeezus’

Despite his musical success, West’s career has been marked by controversy. His outspoken nature and public outbursts have often overshadowed his music. However, he continued to push creative boundaries with his sixth studio album, ‘Yeezus’.

Public Outbursts and Media Backlash

From interrupting Taylor Swift at the 2009 MTVVMAs to his controversial comments on slavery, West’s public behavior has often sparked backlash. However, he has remained unapologetic, asserting his right to express his opinions.

Release of ‘Yeezus’ and Critical Response

‘Yeezus’, released in 2013, was a stark departure from West’s previous work. With its abrasive production and confrontational lyrics, the album polarized critics but has since been recognized for its influence on the sound of contemporary hip-hop.

‘The Life of Pablo’ and Mental Health Struggles

West’s next album, ‘The Life of Pablo’, was released amidst a period of personal turmoil. His erratic behavior and hospitalization for a psychiatric evaluation brought his mental health into the spotlight.

Album Release and Public Breakdown

‘The Life of Pablo’ was released in 2016, following a chaotic and much-publicized launch event. Later that year, West was hospitalized for a psychiatric evaluation, leading to the cancellation of his tour.

Impact on Career and Public Perception

West’s mental health struggles and public breakdown affected both his career and public perception. However, he has been open about his experiences, contributing to a broader conversation about mental health in the music industry.

Recent Years: ‘Ye’ to ‘Jesus is King’

In recent years, West has continued to make music while also exploring other ventures, including fashion and religion. His latest albums, ‘Ye’ and ‘Jesus is King’, reflect his personal journey and evolving interests.

Return to Music and Exploration of Faith

West’s recent music has been marked by introspection and a focus on his faith. ‘Jesus is King’, his ninth studio album, is a Christian hip-hop record that reflects his spiritual journey.

Current Projects and Future Endeavors

As of now, West continues to make music and influence the culture in various ways. His journey, marked by both triumphs and tribulations, serves as a testament to his enduring impact on the music industry and beyond.

Kanye West’s journey is a testament to his resilience and creativity. Despite the controversies and personal struggles, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of music and culture. His influence extends beyond music, shaping fashion, design, and the conversation around mental health. As we look forward to what the future holds for Kanye West, one thing is certain: he will continue to leave his mark on the world in his unique way.

• When was Kanye West born?
• Kanye West was born on June 8, 1977.
• What was Kanye West’s breakthrough album?
• Kanye West’s breakthrough album was ‘The College Dropout’, released in 2004.
• What is Kanye West’s record label called?
• Kanye West’s record label is called GOOD Music.
• What are some of Kanye West’s most influential albums?
• Some of Kanye West’s most influential albums include ‘The College Dropout’, ‘Late Registration’, ‘Graduation’, ‘808s & Heartbreak’, ‘My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy’, and ‘Yeezus’.
• What is the name of Kanye West’s latest album?
• As of now, Kanye West’s latest album is ‘Jesus is King’.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Beyoncé: the queen of pop, kim kardashian: a journey through stardom, johnny depp: a journey through his life and career, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

EDITOR PICKS

The 55 most influential male celebrities of our time, 8 simple steps to achieve your ultimate summer skin care routine, ultimate guide: setting and achieving skincare goals for your best skin ever, popular posts, popular category.

• Biographies 14
• Skincare 10
• Kardashians News 7

Lella Magazine : Your go to for Celeb Scoop! Hollywood to Worldwide, stay updated on the latest in TV, Film & Media.

Contact us: [email protected]

© Lella Magazine - MPG One | 2024

The Self Help Library

Hundreds Of Self-Help Articles For Successful Living

Kanye West: The Journey of a Rapper and Fashion Designer

Table Of Contents

In this captivating article, you will embark on a journey to discover the remarkable life of Kanye West, the multi-talented rapper and fashion designer. From his early years as a struggling artist to his meteoric rise to fame, you will delve into the captivating life histories, achievements, and success philosophies of this rich and famous icon. Get ready to be inspired as we uncover the fascinating story behind the man who has left an indelible mark on the music and fashion industries.

Early Life and Education

Childhood and family background.

Kanye West, the renowned rapper and fashion designer, was born on June 8, 1977, in Atlanta, Georgia. He grew up in Chicago, Illinois, along with his mother, Donda West, who was an English professor and his father, Ray West, a journalist and later a photographer. Kanye’s parents divorced when he was just three years old, and he was primarily raised by his mother.

Education and Musical Influences

From a young age, Kanye showed a keen interest in music and poetry. He attended Polaris High School where he developed his love for art and pursued his passion for music by creating his own beats. Kanye’s exposure to a wide range of musical genres, including soul, hip-hop, and R&B, helped shape his unique style and sound. As a teenager, he began to produce music and showcase his talents, laying the foundation for his future career.

Early Career in Music

Starting out in the music industry.

After high school, Kanye West decided to pursue a career in music, despite his mother’s initial concerns. His determination and raw talent caught the attention of several industry professionals, and he started working as a producer for record labels. Kanye’s ability to infuse different musical elements and create innovative sounds quickly set him apart from his peers.

The College Dropout Album

In 2004, Kanye released his debut studio album, “The College Dropout,” which received critical acclaim and was a commercial success. The album not only showcased Kanye’s exceptional production skills but also highlighted his lyrical prowess. With hit singles like “Through the Wire” and “Jesus Walks,” Kanye captivated audiences with his honest and introspective storytelling.

Late Registration and Graduation Albums

Kanye West’s subsequent albums, “Late Registration” (2005) and “Graduation” (2007), further solidified his position in the music industry. These albums showcased his ability to seamlessly blend various genres, incorporating elements of classical music and electronic sounds into his compositions. Kanye’s unique approach to music production and thought-provoking lyrics made him a force to be reckoned with in the hip-hop scene.

Controversies and Public Image

Taylor swift incident.

One of the most infamous incidents involving Kanye West occurred at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards. During Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech for Best Female Video, Kanye stormed the stage, interrupting her and stating that Beyoncé deserved the award instead. This incident caused a significant backlash against Kanye and affected his public image for many years to come.

Public Outbursts and Statements

Throughout his career, Kanye West has become known for his outspoken nature and tendency to make controversial statements. From public outbursts during interviews to politically charged remarks, Kanye’s actions have often attracted media attention and sparked heated debates. While some view his outspokenness as refreshing and genuine, others criticize him for his disruptive behavior.

Evolution as an Artist

808s & heartbreak album.

In 2008, Kanye released the album “808s & Heartbreak,” a departure from his previous works. This introspective and emotionally raw album showcased Kanye’s vulnerability and explored themes of heartbreak and loss. It was a significant departure from his earlier sound and influenced a new wave of rap and R&B artists who embraced the use of auto-tune and emotional vulnerability.

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy Album

In 2010, Kanye released the critically acclaimed album “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.” It was a magnum opus that showcased Kanye’s creative genius and pushed the boundaries of music. With its intricate production, introspective lyrics, and wide range of collaborations, the album solidified Kanye’s status as a visionary artist.

Yeezus Album

In 2013, Kanye released the album “Yeezus,” which received mixed reviews but further demonstrated his willingness to take risks and experiment with sound. This album embraced a more minimalist approach, featuring abrasive production and confrontational lyrics. While it may not have been universally well-received, it showcased Kanye’s ongoing evolution as an artist unafraid to challenge the norms of the industry.

Ventures into Fashion

Early interest in fashion.

Kanye West’s passion for fashion dates back to his early years. As a child, he frequently sketched designs and dreamed of creating his own clothing line. Throughout his music career, Kanye began making a name for himself as a fashion trendsetter, often seen sporting unique outfits that attracted attention and sparked trends.

Donda and Pastelle Brands

In 2009, Kanye founded the fashion brand Donda, named after his late mother. However, the brand faced numerous challenges and never fully materialized. Similarly, his Pastelle brand, which gained significant hype, ultimately did not come to fruition. These early ventures into the fashion industry taught Kanye invaluable lessons about the complexities of the fashion business.

Yeezy Brand and Collaboration with Adidas

Despite initial setbacks, Kanye’s perseverance and passion for fashion led to the creation of his highly influential brand, Yeezy. In 2013, he formed a collaboration with Adidas that would revolutionize the sneaker industry. The Yeezy brand, known for its distinct designs and limited-edition releases, quickly gained a cult-like following and solidified Kanye’s position as a fashion icon.

Yeezy Sneakers and Clothing Line

Yeezy season 1 collection.

In 2015, Kanye West launched his first Yeezy Season collection, which encompassed both clothing and footwear. The collection showcased Kanye’s innovative approach to design, blending elements of streetwear, high fashion, and athleisure. The Yeezy Season 1 collection received widespread acclaim and set a new standard for fashion collaborations within the sneaker industry.

Expansion of Yeezy Line

In the following years, Kanye expanded the Yeezy line, releasing subsequent seasons that continued to push the boundaries of fashion. The Yeezy brand became synonymous with cutting-edge design, often featuring monochromatic color palettes, oversized silhouettes, and unique fabric choices. Kanye’s ability to bridge the gap between high fashion and streetwear further cemented his influence in the fashion industry.

Yeezy Sneaker Collaborations

Kanye West’s collaborations with Adidas resulted in the release of numerous highly sought-after Yeezy sneaker models. From the iconic Yeezy Boost 350 to the Yeezy 700 and Yeezy 500, each release generated immense hype and sold out within minutes. Kanye’s ability to create demand and disrupt the sneaker market solidified his influence as both a musician and a fashion designer.

Fashion Shows and Runways

Yeezy season 2.

In 2015, Kanye West unveiled his Yeezy Season 2 collection at New York Fashion Week. The show featured an unconventional presentation format, with models standing in rows, dressed in Kanye’s signature earth-toned garments. The collection received mixed reviews but further solidified Kanye’s presence in the fashion industry and showcased his commitment to pushing boundaries.

Yeezy Season 3: The Madison Square Garden Spectacle

Yeezy Season 3, held at Madison Square Garden in 2016, marked a pivotal moment in Kanye’s fashion career. The event, which also served as the launch of his album “The Life of Pablo,” attracted media attention and drew thousands of spectators. The show featured a diverse cast of models and reinforced Kanye’s commitment to inclusivity in the fashion world.

Yeezy Season 4 and Beyond

In subsequent years, Kanye continued to present his Yeezy collections, often opting for unique and unconventional venues. From Roosevelt Island in New York City to the Wyoming mountains, each show became highly anticipated, attracting a mix of fashion insiders, celebrities, and fans. Kanye’s fashion shows transcended traditional runway formats and became immersive experiences that blurred the lines between music, art, and fashion.

Awards and Recognition

Grammy awards.

Kanye West’s impact on the music industry has been recognized with numerous Grammy Awards. Over the course of his career, he has won a total of 22 Grammy Awards and has been nominated for many more. His accolades span various categories, including Best Rap Album, Best Rap Song, and Best Rap Performance.

Fashion Awards and Honors

In the fashion world, Kanye’s contributions have also received recognition and acclaim. His Yeezy brand has been lauded for its influence on streetwear and its ability to bridge the gap between luxury fashion and athletic apparel. Kanye has been awarded the Fashion Innovator Award by the Footwear News Achievement Awards and has been included in TIME magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

Personal Life and Relationships

Marriage to kim kardashian.

In 2014, Kanye West married reality TV star Kim Kardashian. Their lavish wedding ceremony in Florence, Italy, attracted widespread media attention. The couple’s relationship has been closely followed by the public and the media, with their union often making headlines. Together, Kanye and Kim have become one of the most talked-about couples in the entertainment industry.

Parenting and Family Life

Kanye and Kim are the proud parents of four children: North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm. Their family life is often showcased on social media, giving fans glimpses of their adventures and milestones. Kanye’s role as a father has been documented through his music, with references to his children and the impact they have had on his life.

Influence and Legacy

Impact on music and popular culture.

Kanye West’s influence on music and popular culture is undeniable. His innovative sound, genre-blending abilities, and thought-provoking lyrics have inspired countless artists and reshaped the landscape of hip-hop. Kanye’s willingness to experiment with unconventional sounds and push boundaries has made him a trailblazer in the industry and has paved the way for future artists to explore new creative avenues.

Fashion Industry Influence

In the fashion world, Kanye’s impact is equally significant. His ability to seamlessly transition from music to fashion has set him apart from many other artists turned designers. Kanye’s Yeezy brand has become synonymous with hype, exclusivity, and trendsetting aesthetics. His influence can be seen in the rise of athleisure, the popularity of limited-edition releases, and the blurred lines between streetwear and high fashion.

Philanthropy Efforts

In addition to his contributions to the music and fashion industries, Kanye West has also been involved in various philanthropic endeavors. He has supported initiatives focused on education, mental health awareness, and disaster relief efforts. Kanye’s philanthropy reflects his desire to make a positive impact on society and use his platform for meaningful change.

As Kanye West’s journey continues to unfold, his impact as both a rapper and a fashion designer will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. From his early days in music production to his groundbreaking fashion collaborations, Kanye has consistently pushed the boundaries of creativity and left an indelible mark on both industries. Through his evolution as an artist, his outspoken nature, and his commitment to philanthropy, Kanye West has cemented his place as a cultural icon and an influential figure in the world of music and fashion.

Related posts:

• Jay-Z: From Rapper to Entrepreneur
• The Success Story of Kim Kardashian West
• Are There Fashion Shows Featuring Tan-through Clothing?
• Taylor Swift: A Talented Singer-Songwriter’s Journey to Success
• “Only 2% of us…” – Arnold Schwarzenegger Quote

Kanye West Career Tips & Life Lessons In The Spotlight

• 2021-10-23 10:16:28
• 20 minute(s)

Kanye West Career Tips & Life Lessons In The Spotlight

Kanye West is one of the best-selling artists of all time. He’s won 21 Grammy awards making him one of the most awarded artists of all time as well as the most awarded artist for his age. Kanye West is successful by anybody’s definition. Since he broke out onto the music scene back in 2004, he’s managed to maintain his wave of super-success for eleven years and counting. The following are five career tips & life lessons that we can all learn from the infamous Kanye West.

If you know anything at all about Kanye West, you’ll know that the man considers himself to be extremely creative, almost to a fault.

Although his name may be surrounded in controversy at any given moment, Kanye West continues to be one of the most respected and highest earning rapper-turned-entrepreneurs of the 21st century. Kanye may be dealing with different life issues these days, but throughout all the drama, he holds his own. And his track record speaks for itself, having released 8 albums, and worked on several clothing and footwear lines ranging from Pastelle to Louis Vuitton and Nike to adidas.

Many people might lose their mind when I say Kayne West is a respectable celebrity, but the way he has reformed the rapping industry, he surely deserves a bow.

There is no second opinion that Kanye West can be accused of referring to women in an unfortunate misogynistic way. But, when we look back on his career and how he has made himself what he is today, this accusation seems too small to fight for. From being a 27-year-old rapper who wishes to rock the record charts to becoming a man of fame and wealth. Kanye West have given a lot of life lessons throughout his career. No matter what phase of life you are dealing with, these life lessons are enough to put back motivation in your dull and tired mind.

Despite his ego and public outbursts; Kanye has learned a lot from his journey to greatness.

While Kanye West might not be the hero our generation wants, he is without a doubt the hero our generation needs. Along with how to artfully toe the line between confident and cocky, here are five life lessons and career tips that we can all learn from Mr. West.

Lesson #1: Speak your Mind

Lesson #2: believe in yourself, lesson #3: dare to be different, lesson #4: don’t be afraid, lesson #5: ask for help.

Nothing is more aggravating than when people share unsolicited opinions about your choices. Ignore these kinds of things. When you stop caring about what people think of you, life becomes so much easier. You must tell the people who have doubted you that the joke is on them. Like Kanye said, “ We don’t care what people say .”

Don’t let likeability be a millstone around your neck. Work on what needs to be worked on, but don’t fixate on what is outside of your control.

Whether you’re a student, employee, artist, athlete, or a human being in general, we’re all plagued by criticism at some point in our lives — if not daily. However, what’s far more important than the harsh words you face from others is the way in which you respond to it. As someone who’s received more than his fair share of hate, Kanye West has taught himself to handle criticism like a champ. In other words, it’s all about flipping your perspective and the way you perceive the criticism that surrounds you. Would you rather spend your entire life playing things safe, or take creative risks that stir controversy and emotion? I think we all know what Kanye would do.

Kanye West might not be a role model, per se, but he can teach us something about being authentic.

He may not always choose the most appropriate times to assert his beliefs, we can still find inspiration in his passion and willingness to stand against what is wrong. It takes courage, but it’s worth doing. These actions remind us to fight for what is right and what is fair, no matter the opposition we face. Have you noticed something going on at your workplace that is unfair? Say something! Just choose your time and method tactfully. His infamous interruption of Taylor Swift at the Video Music Awards is a good example of bad timing and method.

Kanye West has said

Criticism can bother you, but you should be more bothered if there’s no criticism. That means you’re too safe. — Kanye West Click To Tweet

But why aren’t we speaking up? Simply put, we are afraid. Our fears are born of our perception of reality.

If you want to move past the initial feeling that stops you from speaking up, you are going to have to do some digging and understand the kind of thoughts and arguments that contribute to these feelings. Keep doing it until you feel that you have covered all of the possible fears and arguments that are stopping you. The more responses you come up with, the greater the opportunity to expose the source of your fear. Look for the logic in your arguments. The brain loves evidence and real data. Very often we make assumptions and consider them as facts; but if there are no supporting facts, then you know that you are really just making it up.

Authenticity is about making the listener see what it is that you see and feel what you feel.

Being honest and open about who you are and what you really care about is in fact a powerful place to be, and key to getting respect. Authentic people are less concerned with judgment and don’t worry what others think of them. Instead, they tune outwards in order to engage empathetically so they can deliver what they believe the audience would like. Sadly, most people are thinking about themselves: they’re concerned with how they look and sound, and want to be judged as competent and doing a good job.

📚 Additional reading

• Cognitive Biases: How to Outsmart Yourself And Stop Being Irrational
• How to Tactfully Speak Your Mind
• Speak Your Truth – Three Tips for Communicating Authentically

Kanye West has always been known for being arrogant and proud of his accomplishments. He vocalized it plenty of his tracks. His extreme self-confidence is part of why he’s in his current position. Every now and then, it’s okay to be extra confident. If no one believes in you, you must believe in yourself. It’s the only way you’ll be able to get people to support what you’re doing.

I believe we all innately know the way to our own greatness. The key is trusting yourself enough to navigate toward it.

Criticism and doubt from ourselves and others stifles this. Hailing from South Side of Chicago, Illinois, Kanye West debuted in the industry with his album, “The College Dropout”. Despite it being a great musical composition, there were many naysayers who did not believed in his talent. Experts said, he do not hold strong chance to make a great rapper. But, Kanye did not take effect of such things. He believed in himself and tapped every opportunity available. We all face criticism, many time we self-criticize ourselves for not being deserving for our goals. When the same happened with Kanye, he stood against the odds and proved his worth to the world.

Greatness is possible for any of us. And it exists in all of us.

We all come into the world with powerful and unique natural talents waiting to be discovered and expressed. So what makes Kanye special isn’t that he has talents. What makes Kanye special is that he knows what his strongest talents are. And he uses them. No matter how many other projects and businesses he ventures into, he always remembers to come back to the talent that made him a star: creating good music. After so many years, Kanye West is still making good rap albums. He knows his talents. That’s a success tip we can all learn from.

I still think I am the greatest. — Kanye West Click To Tweet

If your ideas are your livelihood, then don’t give them away for free. Make people pay you for what you’re best at.

One of the fundamental rules of business is believing in your products and services. If you don’t, how can you expect a potential client will invest money and possibly time in you at the start? Kanye has been very vocal across his career about individuals and companies who doubted his ability and, the music he was producing. Despite being turned down for a recording deal by Capitol Records at the early stage of his career, Kanye continued to believe in himself and the music he was producing.

Besides, confidence is the cornerstone of leadership. If you don’t believe in yourself, how can others believe in you?

If you lack self-confidence, you will always feel like you’re at the mercy of other people. When you assume a victim mentality, you are no longer resilient to life’s inevitable obstacles and roadblocks. When you stand at the edge of the water; waiting, wondering, worrying if you can do something, you lose confidence. Your fears creep in and you begin to doubt yourself. But when you take a leap of faith, jump in and get started, your confidence immediately builds. Action builds confidence and each step you take builds it further.

• Five Ways To Boost Your Self Confidence
• 8 Easy Ways to Become the Most Confident Person in the Room
• How to Be More Confident: 11 Scientific Strategies For More Confidence

Growing into fame, Kanye West was and still remains unapologetically different from the other rappers of his time. His ability to stand out, however, goes beyond his story-like lyrics or high-end sense of style. While today’s celebrities and artists are constantly encouraged to remain grounded and selfless, Kanye West recognizes his own abilities and challenges others to do the same.

If you try to be like everyone else, you will be unlikely to stand out.

Being different and/or eccentric is something to be prized and it is something that we often overlook. Society favors the average Joe who goes to work and pays his taxes and follows the rules like a nice little obedient citizen. That said, being different can be the trigger for bullying and being ostracized. They key to being successful is to highlight your differences and use these to offer something unique back. Another thing to refrain from doing is comparing yourself to others. Difference is the quality that sets you apart on first dates and job interviews, that signals your singularity to potential friends. Embracing your quirkiness helps you become the best version of you and share that you-ness with the world. It’s just a matter of figuring out your particular thing and not hiding it.

Highly successful people are, by definition, unusual people!

One of the great paradoxes of life is that being normal or even reasonable usually means settling for average, ordinary results, while success requires that we step outside our normal routines, dare to be different and often, uncomfortable. Success in life is not achieved by being “ ordinary .” It is achieved by being “ different ,” by following your own path and trusting your own instincts. To achieve your unique version of success, follow your heart. Yes, you’ll want to obey the law and applicable regulations, but aside from those things, you become great by being exactly, and uniquely yourself. This is a call for more eccentrics, more individuals, more creative, unrepentant adventurers. Go where your heart and your instincts lead you. Follow your dream. Instead of following the “normal” highway, blaze a new path and leave a trail for others to follow.

I’m on the pursuit of awesomeness, excellence is the bare minimum. — Kanye West Click To Tweet

Gone are the days when you just show up and you do average work in an average time.

Freedom is not being the “ yes ” person. It’s saying “ no ” to what doesn’t work for you, and “ yes ” to what wants to emerge. That’s how you make a difference. Kanye West was very much transparent right from the start. College Drop out pretty much narrated his side of the story. It implies on everybody. We are different individuals with different aims and different talents but we all seek the same thing- happiness and success. Telling your stories, moreover, accepting your story is the first thing you can do before you are ready to embrace true success. So, when everybody choose to zig, you choose to zag. When everybody is saying, “ It’s got to be done this way ,” be willing to stand up, be the odd person out and walk the opposite direction.

You will want to reject popular thinking. Challenge assumptions, think laterally and outside the box, consider approaches you’ve never thought about before.

Too many of us have sacrificed our true identity in order to fit in with what is culturally acceptable. Compromising our uniqueness for social acceptance only diminishes our dreams to the lowest common denominator. It’s time to celebrate our differences, dare to dream, and express our destiny through our unique creative gifts and talents. I want to encourage you to find something different about you each day for the next 7 days to celebrate. Then, find something you can celebrate in someone else, and tell them, so that they can be encouraged to be different to make a difference. Remember, you are born to create!

• Five Effective Ways To Think Outside The Box
• Why We Dare To Be Different And Encourage You To Do The Same
• 5 Ways Being Different Can Lead You To Success

Out of all the lessons we can learn from Kanye West, the most important is his positive mental response to pain. On October 23rd of 2002, Kanye fell asleep at the wheel while driving home from a recording studio and fell victim to an almost fatal car crash. To heal his broken jaw, doctors wired his mouth shut with reconstructive surgery. As an up-and-coming producer and rapper, Kanye’s life and his career were both in jeopardy. Placed in that tragic situation, many people would of felt fazed, demoralized, or pessimistic. But Kanye was optimistic. He responded with positivity.

Many people would have felt fazed, demoralized, or pessimistic when faced with that tragedy. But Kanye chose to respond to his pain with a positive mindset.

Kanye returned to the recording studio only two weeks after the accident—with his mouth still wired shut—to record his first hit single “Through The Wire.” He used the pain of his almost-fatal car accident to create a powerful and career-launching song. He used that suffering to jump-launch a star-making album — an album that eventually made him a household name. He chose to respond to his pain in a positive way that created growth, purpose, passion, happiness, and success in his life. He used his pain to his advantage. Life gave him a misfortunate situation and he turned it into something beautiful.

Taking risks can radically redefine your success and personal growth, but one of the greatest initial challenges is daring to break out of routine in the first place.

Human beings like stability; it has allowed us to blossom and thrive as a species. So it’s perhaps unsurprising that we’re hardwired to avoid anything that disrupts the established routine. The fear of failure can be so potent that it overshadows the (often likely) possibility of winning. The key to this lies in redefining success. If we only measure success in terms of monetary value, it closes us off to anything that might pose a risk to our material stability. If, however, we shift the emphasis to personal growth, the threat of failure becomes redundant; every failure becomes a lesson learned, taking us one step closer to our full potential. As Einstein supposedly said, ‘ failure is success in progress ’.

I’m not comfortable with comfort. I’m only comfortable when I’m in a place where I’m constantly learning and growing. — Kanye West Click To Tweet

Whether it’s dealing with self-consciousness or arrogance, Kanye doesn’t shun adversity.

When we have problems in our lives, we too often try to play them off as minor issues. Sometimes, we need to just admit when we have problems. It makes life easier when we don’t have to pretend problems are smaller than they are. That said, adversity is a great teacher. This is your chance to gain valuable insights; to truly learn from your mistakes so you’ll have a better chance of success next time. However, you will have to engage in some self-reflection. Where and how did things go wrong? As entrepreneur Mark Cuban has said, “ With every effort, I learned a lot. With every mistake and failure, not only mine, but of those around me, I learned what not to do .”

Challenges are opportunities in disguise.

Adversity will challenge you in new ways resulting in experiences you otherwise would not have encountered. Facing these challenges head on, coping with them, and developing a recovery strategy emboldens you and gives you the confidence to face the next obstacle. Plus, these experiences develop your capacity to maintain resolve and determination through the tough times. Being able to effectively cope with the stressors associated with adversity enables you to cultivate a range of skills which makes you stronger, better equipped, and more resilient for future events. When faced with adversity find the inner strength to be courageous and resilient. Your attitude and mindset are central to overcoming this challenge.

• Five Reasons Risk Takers Are More Likely To Be Successful
• No Risk, No Reward: 3 Top TED Talks on How to Take More Risks (Inc.com)
• 5 Reasons Why Taking Risks Is Essential For Success

Each person has “ day ones .” They’re the friends who have been by your side during the good times, bad times and ugly times — since day one. The ones who’ll tell you what you need to hear rather than what you want to hear. Kanye West had a couple of day ones throughout the making of College Dropout . Heck, some of those “ day ones ” initially weren’t so thrilled about him wanting to rap. Others were right behind him throughout his ascent to success. It took them some time, but eventually they were rallying for their guy to make a statement with his music.

Many of us either have no idea that we could benefit from help, or are too afraid to come forward because we assume this is seen as weakness, or a lack of intelligence.

However, the truth is that it takes a strong person to ask for help. The most successful people in this world could not have achieved all that they have without a little help along the way. Since releasing ‘ The College Drop Out ”, Kanye West has worked with the widest range of musicians and artists who he could call upon at the drop of a hat. Putting aside Hip-Hop’s current heavyweights, Kanye has worked with Daft Punk, Maroon 5’s Adam Levine, Coldplay’s Chris Martin, Mr. Hudson, indie-folk band Bon Iver and probably the biggest musician alive, Sir Paul McCartney to name a few.

My personal philosophy has always been: It never hurts to ask.

What is the worst anyone is going to say? No? Unless you’re asking someone to do something improper or illegal, if it’s a legitimate ask, why not try? I’ve never taken advantage of the relationships and use the asks sparingly, but the value that comes from having the ability to reach out at will, is immeasurable. Take the risk and go for it! If you get a “ no ” or “ not now ,” move on and ask someone else or ask for something different. Remember that to receive what we want; we have to ask for it and most people are willing to help us get what we need.

I was never really good at anything except for the ability to learn. — Kanye West Click To Tweet

It is often said that behind every great man, there is a great woman.

When we look at the world’s most successful and influential individuals, it’s hard not to notice that many of them are married to spouses that share their success. Quite a few of the world’s most successful people belong to power couples. No matter who you are, the first quality you should look for in a relationship is love. But if success is your goal, you should also look for a partner that shares your values, ambition, drive, motivation, and greatness. Set up your very own Jay-Z and Beyoncé power-relationship. Be a part of a power couple. Be a part of a Kanye West and Kim Kardashian power-couple. Find someone who you love but also shares your values, ambition, drive, motivation, and greatness. Marry the right person.

Just because your formal education ends or you finally turn 18 doesn’t mean you’re done learning for the rest of your life.

Even as an adult who’s been around the block a few times, Kanye admits that he’s still learning lessons every day. However, his carefree attitude and ability to focus on the future and his goals keeps him from getting caught up in the mistakes of the past. Not to mention, he’s constantly surrounding himself with other greats of the music and entertainment industry — this is evident through his collaborations with artists like Jay-Z, John Legend, Frank Ocean, and Lupe Fiasco. He shows us that by surrounding yourself with the best in the business (whatever your business may be), you’re setting yourself up for success.

• Tim Ferriss – Tribe of Mentors
• How Successful People Ask for Help
• 4 Reasons Why Asking For Help Makes You A Stronger, Not Weaker, Leader (Forbes)

Wrapping Up

Kanye West has everything that can make a man envy from owing beautiful house, an armored car and many pricey possession to having a loving wife and family, Kanye has accumulated the true wealth for himself. He is one gem of a personalities that have made their own mark. From being an underrated rapper to becoming a billionaire with everything at his disposal, Kanye West had been a true motivator throughout.

So what exactly is Kanye West telling us? Take a stance. Write something controversial. Don’t shy away from pointing out that elephant sitting across the room.

It’s easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day, but it’s a good idea to pause every so often to reflect on what makes us successful in our professional and personal lives. Whether or not you like Kanye West’s music or public persona, there’s no denying that he’s achieved a great amount of success in his career. Look beyond the showy celebrity moments and you’ll see the more admirable characteristics that we can all strive toward.

While Kanye West might not be the hero our generation wants, he is without a doubt the hero our generation needs.

You might not like what Kanye believes in. You might believe that he believes only in Kanye. But he fights for his talent. He even fights paparazzi. He believes in (his own version of) integrity. You might contrast this with many (bad) managers who believe in nothing other than themselves. They don’t care about their products. They don’t care about their employees. They just want their lucre. By contrast, Kanye actually takes his album off the market, so that he can perfect it. How many managers would dare do that?

When you picture the ideal role model for the modern-day youth, Kanye West probably isn’t the first person that comes to mind.

However, there’s a lot youth generation can learn about channeling confidence and self-love from the artist who’s never been afraid to put himself first. Next time you’re faced with harsh criticism, a creative block, or a mistake from the past, ask yourself: what would Jesus do? To be successful, you will want to fight for your dreams with Kanye’s confidence, boldness, willingness to stand up for what you believe in — even when there are negative consequences.

You have to be ready to stand up for your greatness. Never Back Down — to anybody.

I learned so much from Kanye West, including the importance of having confidence as well as the conviction to create a distinctive voice or sound.  What do you think of Kanye West? Which Kanye West lesson resonated with you the most? Fell free to share your thoughts with our community in the comments below!

Geeknack's Picks

Digital Dandy. Hacker From Heart. Workaholic. Coding Artist. Self-made.

Leave a Reply

We NEED Your Feedback!

To help us make Geeknack™ exactly the best it can be, we’d ask you for your feedback today.

It should only take a few minutes to fill out the survey and your answers will help us make Geeknack™ even better for YOU and our fellow leaders all around the world!

Help us shape a great experience on the site!

ZAMASOLUTION

• [email protected]

A Project of panrum

The  Easiest & Reliable Solution  that needs just your One Click

Kanye West’s Unforgettable Journey: Mastering Success with 5 Bold Moves in 2023

Introduction

Success in any industry is a nuanced journey, filled with unpredictable twists and turns. Kanye West, the iconic figure in the world of music and fashion, has not only navigated this tumultuous path but has done so with boldness and innovation. In 2023, he continues to redefine success through five remarkable moves that showcase his strategic prowess. Let’s delve into the dynamic journey of Kanye West and unravel the key elements that make his success story truly unforgettable.

1. From Beats to Brands: Kanye’s Evolution in Music and Fashion

Kanye West’s journey began with beats, but his evolution has transcended music alone. This section explores how he seamlessly transitioned into the world of fashion, turning his creative genius into a multi-faceted empire. We’ll discuss his collaborations, fashion lines, and the impact of his artistic vision on both industries.

2. YEEZY: The Revolution in Sneaker Culture

YEEZY, Kanye’s brainchild in the realm of footwear, has revolutionized sneaker culture. This part of the article delves into the inception, growth, and impact of the YEEZY brand . Examining the synergy between music, fashion, and sneakers, we uncover the bold move that positioned Kanye as a trailblazer in the world of streetwear.

3. Donda: Merging Art and Technology for a Cultural Shift

Kanye West’s venture into the realm of art and technology with Donda has left an indelible mark. This section explores how Donda serves as a platform for artistic expression, highlighting the intersection of creativity and technology. We’ll discuss the implications of this bold move on both the artistic and technological landscapes.

4. Cryptocurrency and Kanye: Navigating the Financial Frontier

In 2023, Kanye West has ventured into the world of cryptocurrency , making headlines with his innovative financial pursuits. This part of the article examines Kanye’s foray into the crypto space, discussing the impact on both his personal brand and the broader financial landscape.

5. Mental Health Advocacy: Breaking Stigmas with Candid Conversations

Beyond the glamour and success, Kanye West has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. This section delves into his public conversations about mental health, exploring how he’s using his platform to break stigmas and foster open dialogue. We’ll discuss the significance of celebrities addressing mental health and the impact on society.

Kanye West breaks big news related to his album

Kanye West is set to unveil his highly awaited collaborative album with Ty Dolla $ign on Friday, December 15. Making the announcement at a club appearance, the renowned Donda artist revealed, “It’s titled Vultures, and it’s scheduled for release this Friday.”

In alignment with this revelation, Ty had earlier disclosed that the album’s listening party is slated to take place in Miami on December 12.

Furthermore, the 41-year-old artist took to social media on December 9 to share the tracklist of the upcoming album.

The roster included a long-anticipated track, New Body, originally part of Chicago’s rapstar Kanye West’s shelved Yandhi album.

Amidst the buzz of exciting music updates, Kanye’s marital life seemed to be encountering challenges. According to sources, the 46-year-old’s marriage to Bianca Censori was reportedly causing concern for her parents.

A reliable source informed Daily Mail that Bianca’s mother and father harbor reservations about Kanye, finding his presence somewhat disconcerting. The insider revealed, “Her parents perceive Kanye to be somewhat disturbing.”

The source went on to explain, “They became suspicious when he married Bianca just one month after finalizing his divorce from Kim [Kardashian]. They were genuinely apprehensive about Bianca becoming his rebound after such a high-profile marriage.”

Kanye West’s new album with TY Dolla $ign: Release date, tracklist revealed

Kanye West has ignited anticipation among music enthusiasts by revealing the release date and tracklist for his upcoming collaborative album with Ty Dolla $ign.

The rapper, known legally as Ye, is set to make a musical comeback on Friday, December 15, with a new album that includes fresh tracks, notably a title track seemingly addressing his past antisemitism controversies. This announcement follows months of controversies surrounding the artist.

During a recent club appearance alongside rapper Ty Dolla $ign, West was heard proclaiming, “It’s called Vultures, and it’s set to release this Friday.”

Adding to the excitement, Ty Dolla $ign disclosed that a listening party is scheduled for Tuesday, December 12, in Miami.

Earlier, West, 46, had unveiled the title track during a surprise performance at the Dubai nightclub Blu. The lyrics of the song raised eyebrows as West rapped, “How am I antisemitic?”

In the midst of his musical endeavors, West is currently basking in a new romance with his ‘wife,’ Bianca Censori. She recently made waves with her appearance in a silver string ensemble paired with a toy teddy bear during an outing in Miami, adding to the buzz surrounding the artist’s personal and professional life.

Ye, formerly known as Kanye, surprised fans on Sunday night at Dukunoo Jamaican Kitchen, an upscale Caribbean restaurant known for its live music events. The rapper treated attendees to excerpts from his highly anticipated collaborative album with Ty Dolla $ign, shortly after the duo shared a 17-track list on Instagram. Their debut single, “Vultures,” was released in late November. In this track, Kanye addressed the controversy surrounding him, particularly the backlash he received for making a series of antisemitic remarks. Notably, this upcoming project marks Ye’s first release since facing criticism for those comments in 2022.

Who is Kanye West new wife?

As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Kanye West’s marital status might have changed since then. Up until that point, Kanye West was previously married to Kim Kardashian. They got married in 2014 and had four children together: North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm. However, if there have been any developments or changes in Kanye West’s marital status after January 2022, I would not be aware of them.

The information available up to my last update indicates that Kim Kardashian filed for divorce from Kanye West in February 2021. The divorce proceedings received significant media attention due to the high-profile nature of the couple. The reasons for their divorce were reported as irreconcilable differences. It’s important to note that the status of Kanye West’s personal life may have evolved since my last update, and I recommend checking the latest and most reliable sources for the most current information.

In the context of discussing Kanye West’s potential new wife, it’s crucial to verify the most recent information, as the landscape of celebrity relationships can change rapidly. Celebrity relationships and marriages often draw public interest, and any developments are usually covered extensively by the media.

As of my last update, Kanye West was known for keeping his personal life relatively private, despite his high-profile career in the music and fashion industries. He is renowned for his contributions to the music industry as a rapper, producer, and fashion designer. Kanye West has been a prominent figure in pop culture, known for his unique style, controversial statements, and creative endeavors.

While his professional life has been widely covered, including his successful music career and fashion ventures, Kanye West has been guarded about his personal life. Any updates on his marital status or new relationships would likely be widely reported in the media due to the public interest in his life.

In conclusion, as of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Kanye West’s ex-wife is Kim Kardashian, and any information regarding a potential new wife would require checking the latest and most reliable sources for the most up-to-date information. It’s essential to be aware that the personal lives of celebrities can change, and staying informed through recent news outlets is crucial for accurate and current details on this matter.

What is Kanye West’s net worth 2023?

As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, I do not have information on Kanye West’s net worth in 2023. Kanye West’s net worth is subject to change due to various factors, including his business ventures, music sales, and other financial endeavors. To obtain the most accurate and current information on Kanye West’s net worth in 2023, it is recommended to check the latest reports from reputable financial sources or celebrity net worth databases.

Kanye West is a multifaceted artist known for his contributions to the music and fashion industries. His net worth is influenced by his successful career in music, fashion, and other business ventures. Born on June 8, 1977, in Atlanta, Georgia, Kanye West rose to fame as a producer and rapper in the early 2000s. Over the years, he has diversified his career, making significant contributions to the fashion world and various creative industries.

One of the primary sources of Kanye West’s wealth is his successful music career. He has released multiple critically acclaimed albums and is known for his innovative approach to music production. Kanye’s ability to merge various genres and create groundbreaking sounds has earned him a dedicated fan base and commercial success. His albums, including “The College Dropout,” “Late Registration,” and “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,” have received widespread acclaim and commercial success.

In addition to his music career, Kanye West has made a significant impact in the fashion industry. He launched his Yeezy brand, which initially gained attention for its collaboration with Adidas on the Yeezy sneaker line. The Yeezy brand has since expanded to include various clothing and accessory items. The success of Yeezy has contributed substantially to Kanye West’s overall net worth.

Furthermore, Kanye West has been involved in various entrepreneurial ventures, including his music label, GOOD Music, and other business endeavors. His ventures extend beyond the realms of music and fashion, showcasing his diverse interests and pursuits.

It’s important to note that Kanye West’s net worth is not solely derived from his artistic and business ventures. Like many high-profile individuals, he has also engaged in real estate investments. Owning properties and real estate in desirable locations can be a significant contributor to one’s overall net worth.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that net worth figures for celebrities are often estimates, as they involve valuations of assets, income streams, and financial holdings that may not be publicly disclosed in detail. Various factors, such as market fluctuations, business successes or setbacks, and personal financial decisions, can impact a celebrity’s net worth.

To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information on Kanye West’s net worth in 2023, it is recommended to refer to recent financial reports, celebrity net worth databases, or other reliable sources that specialize in tracking the wealth of high-profile individuals. These sources typically provide comprehensive analyses of a celebrity’s income streams, investments, and overall financial standing, offering a more detailed and accurate picture of their net worth at a given point in time.

Kanye West Previews Long-Awaited Nicki Minaj-Assisted Song ‘New Body’ at Miami Listening Party

The eagerly anticipated Kanye West track, “New Body,” seems poised for release, as Ye offered a sneak peek of the elusive song featuring Nicki Minaj and Ty Dolla $ign at a Vultures listening party in Miami on Monday night.

Initially scheduled for a 2018 debut on West’s shelved album Yandhi, the track showcases a compelling verse from Minaj and a catchy hook from Ty, celebrating women opting for enhancements and plastic surgery. “Excited to witness your transformed physique, don’t pretend like you don’t know anyone, no body count on your enhanced form. I’ll be the first one to appreciate your newly sculpted body, oh, whoa,” sings Ty Dolla $ign on the chorus.

Regarding Minaj’s verse, it has remained unaltered despite the song leaking and being unofficially available for years. In her impactful verse, she raps, “Ayo, you didn’t engage with me, you engaged with the old body. You didn’t engage with Nicki; you engaged with Nicole’s body. There are no miles on this newly transformed body. Off with their heads, these individuals are insignificant,” maintaining her assertive style.

Minaj, fresh from the release of her fifth album, Pink Friday 2 , is contending for the top spot on the Billboard 200 next week. The album features collaborations with Drake, Lil Wayne, Future, J. Cole, and more. “New Body” would mark the first collaboration between Minaj and West since their monumental 2010 track “Monster.” In that same year, they also teamed up on Minaj’s 2012 Pink Friday song “Blazin.”

Vultures is scheduled for release this Friday (Dec. 15) and marks the inaugural collaborative project between Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign. Listen to a preview of “New Body” below.

YE, NICKI MINAJ, TY DOLLA SIGN NEW BODY pic.twitter.com/7496ihIzUC — Donda Times (@dondatimes) December 12, 2023

Related Links:

Conclusion:

In reflecting on Kanye West’s journey, the year 2023 unfolds as another chapter in the artist’s ongoing narrative of bold moves and creative evolution. Kanye’s multifaceted career has been marked by a series of ventures that extend far beyond the realm of music. His ability to navigate various industries, from fashion to entrepreneurship, has solidified his status as a cultural icon.

One of the defining aspects of Kanye West’s journey in 2023 is his unrelenting pursuit of innovation. From pushing the boundaries of musical genres to creating disruptive fashion lines, he continues to challenge the status quo. This commitment to pushing creative limits has not only shaped his artistic identity but has also paved the way for groundbreaking cultural contributions.

The Yeezy brand, an embodiment of Kanye’s fusion of music and fashion, stands out as a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. The success of Yeezy, particularly the iconic sneaker line in collaboration with Adidas, has transcended traditional expectations of celebrity fashion ventures. It exemplifies how Kanye West’s influence extends beyond the studio and stage, reaching into the lucrative realms of fashion and consumer culture.

Moreover, Kanye West’s foray into real estate further underscores his strategic approach to wealth management. Beyond the spotlight, he has made strategic investments in properties, contributing to the intricate tapestry of his financial portfolio. This diversified approach showcases a keen understanding of the broader economic landscape and an astute ability to leverage opportunities beyond the confines of the entertainment industry.

The year 2023 represents more than just a continuation of Kanye West’s success; it encapsulates a legacy in the making. As he continues to masterfully navigate the complex intersection of art, commerce, and culture, Kanye West’s impact resonates far beyond the immediate domains of his career. His journey is a testament to the possibilities that unfold when creativity meets fearlessness, and when an artist dares to venture into uncharted territories.

In conclusion, Kanye West’s unforgettable journey in 2023 is characterized by his unwavering commitment to artistic expression, entrepreneurial ventures, and a multidimensional approach to success. His story serves as inspiration for those who dare to dream beyond the confines of convention, reminding us that the pursuit of greatness often demands bold moves and an unyielding belief in one’s creative vision. As Kanye West continues to shape the cultural landscape, the echoes of his impact extend far beyond the boundaries of any one industry, leaving an indelible mark on the ever-evolving tapestry of contemporary art and celebrity influence.

Recent Posts:

FAQ’s:

What are the key highlights of Kanye West’s journey in 2023?

In 2023, Kanye West’s journey is marked by several noteworthy achievements. From groundbreaking moves in the music industry to innovative strides in fashion and entrepreneurship, he continues to redefine success across multiple domains.

Can you elaborate on Kanye West’s impact on the fashion industry in 2023?

Absolutely. In 2023, Kanye West’s Yeezy brand remains a trailblazer in the fashion world. Notably, his collaboration with Adidas on the Yeezy sneaker line continues to receive acclaim, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend music and fashion, setting new standards for celebrity-driven fashion ventures.

What role does Kanye West’s real estate ventures play in his overall success in 2023?

Kanye West’s strategic investments in real estate highlight his astute financial acumen. Beyond his artistic endeavors, he has diversified his portfolio with calculated real estate ventures. This move demonstrates a comprehensive approach to wealth management, contributing to the intricate tapestry of his financial success.

How does Kanye West’s journey in 2023 differ from previous years?

In 2023, Kanye West continues to evolve creatively and professionally. Notably, his ventures extend beyond the music industry, encompassing fashion, entrepreneurship, and real estate. This multidimensional approach sets 2023 apart as a year where he further solidifies his status as a cultural icon and innovator.

What defines Kanye West’s approach to success, and how does it manifest in 2023?

Kanye West’s approach to success is characterized by a fearless pursuit of innovation. In 2023, he continues to challenge norms, pushing creative boundaries across various industries. His ability to masterfully navigate the complex intersection of art, commerce, and culture is evident in the bold moves and strategic decisions that define his journey this year.

How has Kanye West’s impact transcended his immediate career domains in 2023?

Kanye West’s influence in 2023 extends far beyond his immediate career domains. His cultural impact is palpable, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary art and celebrity influence. His journey this year serves as an inspiration for those who aspire to reach beyond conventional expectations and redefine success in the modern landscape.

Share This Artical:

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The  Easiest & Reliable Solution that needs just your One Click

You May Also Like Might This :

Breaking Down Barriers: The Future of Data Security Unveiled 2024

Introduction In a world inundated with data, the safeguarding of sensitive information has become paramount. As we step into the future, the landscape of data

Master Scarlet Fever with Skill and Elegance: Explore the Latest Innovations through 4 Courageous Actions

Introduction Scarlet Fever, a historical menace, continues to challenge the medical world. As we navigate the complex landscape of infectious diseases, mastering Scarlet Fever demands

Business Wire: Transform Your Business with the Power of Breaking News ! 2024

Business Wire In a world driven by information, staying ahead in the business game demands more than just innovation; it requires effective communication. The advent

Beyond Butter: 5 Creative Peanut Recipes That Will Blow Your Mind 🥜🔥

Introduction Peanut butter has long been a staple in our kitchen cabinets, but what if we told you there’s a whole world of peanut goodness

Solidarity Project

Kanye West’s Most Unlikely Success Story: How He Beat the Odds

Kanye West is unlikely to achieve success in any field outside of music.

Kanye West Most Unlikely To Succeed

Kanye West is one of the most controversial, influential, and successful figures of the 21st century. He started as an independent artist in the early 2000s and has since become one of the wealthiest hip hop moguls in the world. However, many people felt that Kanye West wouldn’t make it when he first started out. From his up-and-coming days to major triumphs, this is the story of Kanye West’s unlikely path to success.

When Kanye West first began producing music, he was met with a huge amount of scepticism from established industry figures and fellow musicians who thought he had absolutely no chance of making it. Most notably, hip-hop mogul Dame Dash famously said Hell never get on radio so theres no point in trying to give him a deal in response to a demo tape submitted by West. Despite such prejudice, Kanye kept pushing forward and eventually released multiple critically acclaimed albums when he signed with Roc-A-Fella Records in 2002.

Through hard work and dedication, Kanye’s ambition eventually paid off as he became one of the most influential contemporary acts on the music scene. His hybrid genre approach was revolutionary at the time and combined various elements from different genres, such as soul, gospel & electronic music like no other artist had before. The fusion style has earned him numerous awards over the years and cemented his place in history as an iconic figure who left a lasting legacy within music culture for generations to come.

Kanye West’s story is an inspiring reminder that success is achievable even if others tell you otherwise with confidence, perseverance and dedication anything is possible! By creating innovative music ahead of his time and taking creative risks Jehovah has become an international superstar that nobody saw coming least of all himself!

Kanye West’s Early Life

Kanye West was born on June 8, 1977 in Atlanta, Georgia to Donda and Ray West. He grew up in the middle class suburb of Chicago, Illinois. Growing up, Kanye had a strong interest in music and politics, which would later influence his work as a rapper.

Influences on His Youth

Music played a large role in Kanye’s upbringing. His mother was an English professor at Chicago State University and his father was a former Black Panther and photojournalist. Kanye’s parents exposed him to jazz and soul music, which heavily influenced his early life. Additionally, Kanye was politically conscious from an early age, which served as the basis for his political activism later in life.

Kanyes Rise to Stardom

Kanye began producing beats for local artists in the mid-90s before eventually signing with Roc-A-Fella records in 2000. In 2004 he released his debut album The College Dropout which earned him critical acclaim and commercial success. He followed it up with Late Registration two years later which further solidified his place in hip-hop culture.

Doubts About Kanyes Successfulness

When Kanye first started out there were many skeptics who doubted that he would be successful due to his unconventional style of rap and production. Despite this criticism, Kanye persevered and gained support from peers and fans who appreciated his music for its energy and creativity.

Kanyes Relationship with the Media

Kanye has often been a controversial figure due to his outspoken nature and tendency to make headlines with outlandish statements or actions. This has resulted in both criticism as well as support from the media over the years. While some have called into question some of his decisions or statements, others have defended him as an artist who is pushing boundaries and challenging perceptions about what is considered acceptable behavior or artistry in the hip-hop industry today.

Establishing Creative Freedom in Music

Kanye West has always been known for his ambition and willingness to push the boundaries of music. He has often been seen as an outlier in the music industry, pushing past genre limitations and defying expectations. From his early days with Roc-A-Fella Records, Kanye has consistently challenged the conventions of traditional hip hop, creating a sound that is uniquely his own.

One example of this is his experimentation with different production techniques. He often incorporates elements of other genres such as rock, folk, and classical into his music. He also uses vocal samples from various sources to create unique sounds and textures. With each new album he releases, Kanye continues to break down barriers between genres and explore new sonic possibilities.

Kanye has also been known for his creative lyrics which often challenge social norms and convey powerful messages. Through his songs, he has addressed important topics such as racism, police brutality, mental health and more. His lyrics have also spoken directly to fans who feel like they dont fit in or are struggling with lifes challenges.

Questioning His Capabilities Beyond Music

Kanye’s ambition doesn’t end with music; he has pushed himself to pursue a range of other projects outside of the studio. In 2015, he released his clothing line Yeezy which quickly became a huge success and continues to be one of the most sought after fashion brands today. His line was praised for its bold designs and quality materials which set it apart from other luxury brands in the market.

In addition to fashion, Kanye has also pursued a number of other business ventures including video game design and construction projects such as the Star Wars-inspired dome home in Calabasas, California.. He also launched an online streaming service called GOGO Music which featured music from artists signed to GOGO Records a label owned by Kanye himself. While these efforts haven’t all been successful, they demonstrate Kanye’s willingness to challenge himself beyond just music production and show us that success isn’t always guaranteed but it can be achieved if you’re willing to take risks and push yourself out of your comfort zone.

Depicting Unconventional Characteristics Through Lyrics

Kanye’s lyrics have always been known for their originality and thought-provoking subject matter. In songs such as “Jesus Walks” or “New Slaves” he challenges societal standards by addressing political issues such as racism or economic inequality in America topics that were rarely discussed in mainstream hip hop at the time but have become increasingly relevant today . He also often speaks directly to fans through his lyrics providing them with advice on how to live life on their own terms or offering words of encouragement when times are tough .

The messages within Kanye’s songs are not only inspiring but they are also delivered in an unconventional way that sets him apart from other rappers . Instead of focusing solely on lyricism , he combines elements from different genres incorporating rock , folk , classical , soul , jazz with clever wordplay that helps listeners connect with him on multiple levels . This unique approach is part of what makes him so beloved by fans around the world .

Opponents Rising Against His Successful Campaigns

Despite all of Kanye’s successes over the years there have been some moments where public opinion was not on his side . Most recently this was seen when he endorsed Donald Trump’s presidential campaign in 2016 . The endorsement caused widespread outrage amongst many people who felt betrayed by Kanye’s decision . This backlash showed just how much influence celebrities have over public opinion even when their views may be unpopular . It also highlighted how important it is for musicians like Kanye West to use their platform responsibly when speaking out about political issues or endorsing candidates . Despite this controversy , it hasn’t slowed down Kanye’s ambition or creativity ; if anything it has only pushed him further towards reaching new heights within the entertainment industry . It is clear that no matter what obstacles stand before him , nothing will ever stop him from achieving greatness .

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is Kanye West’s early life? A: Kanye West was born June 8th, 1977 in Atlanta, Georgia. His parents divorced when he was three years old and he moved with his mother to Chicago, Illinois. He had a passion for music from a young age and was involved in several church choirs. He attended college for a brief period of time before dropping out to pursue a career in music production.

Q: What influences shaped Kanyes youth? A: Kanye West was heavily influenced by the music of the hip-hop and rap genre during his youth. He was also interested in politics and often discussed social issues like racism and poverty with his peers.

Q: How did Kanye West become famous? A: Kanye West rose to fame after releasing his debut album The College Dropout in 2004. The album was a commercial success and earned him multiple Grammy Awards, propelling him into the spotlight. His follow-up albums Late Registration (2005) and Graduation (2007) were also successful, further cementing his place as one of the most influential artists of the 21st century.

Q: What doubts existed about Kanye’s successfulness? A: When Kanye first emerged on the music scene, there were many who doubted whether he had the talent or staying power to be successful. Critics often dismissed his work as gimmicky or trendy while some fans argued that he lacked lyrical depth or originality compared to other rappers of the time.

Q: How has Kanye established creative freedom in music? A: Throughout his career, Kanye has managed to break the rules of traditional genres by blending elements from different styles of music together to create something new and unique. He has also become known for pushing boundaries within popular culture through his lyrics, which often address controversial topics such as race relations, poverty, and mental health issues.

Kanye West has proven himself to be one of the most successful and influential individuals in the music industry. Despite his many detractors, he has achieved success beyond what was deemed likely or possible by many. His career is a testament to his tenacity, creativity and ambition, and it is clear that Kanye West will continue to be a force in the industry for many years to come.

Author Profile

Latest entries

• July 28, 2023 Popular Games Learn a New Language Easily With No Man’s Sky Practice Language
• July 28, 2023 Blog Are You The Unique Person POF Is Looking For? Find Out Now!
• July 28, 2023 Blog Why Did ‘Fat Cats’ Rebrand and Change Their Name? – Exploring the Reasons Behind a Popular Name Change
• July 28, 2023 Blog What is the Normal Range for an AF Correction 1 WRX?

The Cognition Sentinel

Guarding Knowledge, Inspiring Minds

How Kanye West Built His Business Empire: A Deep Dive into His Strategies

How Kanye West Built His Business Empire

Kanye West is a name that is synonymous with success. The Chicago-born rapper, songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur has built a business empire that has surpassed his music career. He is a creative visionary who has built a brand that is worth billions of dollars. In this article, we will explore how Kanye West made his money, the strategies he used to build his business empire, and what you can learn from his journey.

Timeline of Kanye West’s Success

Kanye West’s music career began in the late 90s when he started producing music for artists such as Jay-Z and Talib Kweli. He released his debut album, The College Dropout, in 2004, which was a commercial and critical success, selling over 3 million copies in the United States alone. The album earned him multiple Grammy nominations and established him as a major player in the music industry.

Since then, Kanye West has released a string of successful albums, including Late Registration, Graduation, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, which have all earned critical acclaim and commercial success. He has won a total of 22 Grammy Awards and has been named one of the most influential people in the world by Time magazine.

Aside from his music career, Kanye West has also ventured into fashion, launching his clothing and sneaker brand YEEZY in 2015. YEEZY has gained a cult following and has made a significant impact on the fashion industry.

Comparing Kanye West’s Business Empire to Other Rappers

Kanye West’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.8 billion, surpassing that of other successful rappers such as Jay-Z and Dr. Dre. His success can be attributed in part to his diversified income streams, which go beyond just music. He has built a brand that includes clothing, sneakers, and even furniture. His collaborations with major brands such as Adidas and Louis Vuitton have helped expand his reach and increase his net worth.

The YEEZY Brand

One of the most significant contributors to Kanye West’s business empire is his clothing and sneaker brand, YEEZY. The brand has gained a significant following, with fans lining up for hours to buy limited releases of YEEZY products.

The success of YEEZY can be attributed to Kanye West’s unique vision and branding. He has developed a signature style that is recognizable and resonates with his fans. His collaborations with major fashion brands such as Adidas have also helped raise the profile of the YEEZY brand. YEEZY products have become a status symbol, and the brand’s limited-release strategy has created a sense of exclusivity that has contributed to its success.

From Musician to Mogul

Kanye West has diversified his income streams by investing in various ventures outside of music and fashion. He has invested in real estate and tech startups, including a joint venture with Jay-Z called Tidal, a music streaming service.

His investments in real estate have been particularly lucrative. In 2014, he bought a $20 million estate in Hidden Hills, California, and has since invested in several other properties. In addition to his real estate investments, he has also invested in tech startups such as The Honest Company and Rylo.

The Power of Collaboration

Kanye West’s success can be attributed in part to his collaborations with other artists and influencers. He has collaborated with major artists such as Jay-Z, Rihanna, and Kid Cudi, and has also worked with major brands such as Adidas and Louis Vuitton.

His collaborations have helped him expand his reach and build his brand. He has also used his collaborations as a way to promote his other ventures, such as YEEZY and Tidal. Kanye West’s collaborations have been strategic and have helped him build his business empire.

The Making of a Visionary

Kanye West is known for his creative vision and unique approach to music and fashion. He has developed a signature style that is recognizable and distinct. His approach to fashion has been particularly unconventional. He has challenged traditional fashion norms and has introduced new ideas and concepts that have made an impact on the industry.

His vision has helped him stand out in a crowded industry and has helped him build a brand that is worth billions of dollars. His bold approach to creativity has also been a driving force behind his success.

Kanye West’s success can be attributed in part to his creative vision and innovative approach to business. He has diversified his income streams and has built a brand that goes beyond just music. His collaborations with other artists and brands have helped him expand his reach and build his net worth.

The lesson to be learned from Kanye West’s journey is the importance of having a unique vision and being willing to take risks. He has challenged the status quo and has introduced new ideas and concepts that have made an impact on the industry. Aspiring entrepreneurs can learn from Kanye West’s journey and apply his strategies to their own businesses.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related News

How to Find Yourself: A Journey of Self-Discovery

How to Download Google Chrome: A Comprehensive Guide

You may have missed.

How to Add Photos to Hidden Folders: A Comprehensive Guide to Privacy and Security

How to Stop Feeling Lightheaded from Anxiety: Coping Techniques, Lifestyle Changes, and More

How to Bake Polymer Clay: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Make Yourself Go to Sleep: Creating Healthy Bedtime Habits

Bianca Censori Dreamed of Fame Years Before Kanye West Romance, Ex-Boyfriend Reveals

Bianca Censori’s ex-boyfriend is opening up about the Australian fashionista’s life before tying the knot with Kayne West.

Nick Forgiane and Bianca were in a relationship for six years before she went on to marry the veteran rapper. Both hailing from Australia, they first crossed paths in 2007 as teenagers, embarking on a romantic journey together when they turned 21, seven years after their initial meeting.

In January 2023, Bianca Censori married the 46-year-old West merely two months following the finalization of his divorce from his ex-wife, Kim Kardashian. Of course, Kim and Kanye have four children together: North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm West.

On Sydney’s Nova FM’s Fitzy & Wippa , Nick candidly discussed his past relationship with his ex-girlfriend. He shared his perspective on her new relationship with the rapper and mogul and her ambitions for fame.

“Bianca has always been bigger than Melbourne and we both knew this,” Forgiane explained. “One time we traveled to America and she told me she would live there one day.”

“The girl is extremely talented and took the leap to go chase her dream of being a famous architect, which she’s achieved,” he added.

Bianca Censori’s Ex Gives Kanye West His Blessing

As far as he’s concerned, Bianca Censori and Kayne West have his blessing. “Of course, I support them. If Bianca is happy with Kanye, I am happy for her.”

“She has always been supportive of my relationships,” Forgiane continued. “I wish them the best and hope it’s a modern-day love story.”

Nick also revealed that Censori never seemed to be a fan of Kanye. Nonetheless, he possessed videos of Bianca joyfully dancing to Kanye’s 2018 hit with Lil Pump, “I Love It.”

Bianca gained overnight fame following her romance with Kanye. She also became integrated into his family, including with ex Kim, and is often seen with their eldest child, North. She worked for Yeezy since November 2020 before marrying Kanye.

Meanwhile, Bianca’s ex still features photos with Bianca on his Instagram . A series of images capture their visit to New York City’s Times Square in 2015, along with their attendance at the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival Oaks Day in both 2017 and 2018. Additionally, they are depicted enjoying getaways to locales such as Byron Bay. Another photo highlights Bianca’s playful nature as she humorously poses with her feet on her face at the Rainbow Serpent Festival.