2. The Beginning Born June 8, 1977 in Atlanta, GA Father: Ray West, a former Black Panther. Mother: Donda West, a Professor at Clark Atlanta University Kanye only spent 3 years in Atlanta
3. Growing Up Parents divorced at age 3. He moved to Chicago with his mother She became an English professor at Chicago State University This is where Kanye grew up.
4. The College Dropout Got good grades in high school. Started college at American Academy of Art in Chicago Later enrolled at Chicago State University, but dropped out for music.
5. Early Music Career Began producing for local artists He later started gaining fame by producing/making beats for major artists Jay Z Paul Wall Alicia Keys More
6. First Single Involved in a near fatal car crash on his way home from the studio Sparked inspiration for first single titled “Through the Wire” Recorded while his mouth was wired shut
7. Debut Album First album titled “The College Dropout” Released February of 2004 on Roc-a-Fella Records, founded by Jay-Z Included hits like “Through the Wire,” and “Jesus Walks”
8. Other Albums Kanye went on to release 3 more albums, and is currently working on his fifth studio album. Late Registration-2005 Graduation-2007 808’s and Heartbreaks-2008
9. Kanye West Foundation Formed with help of Donda West Help solve drop out problem in America by giving kids access to music production programs. Helps provide good output for creativity
10. Homecoming MTV special to help veterans returning get back on their feet from Iraq. Paid 6 months rent An entire weeks worth of studio time A new microphone An Internship at a local radio station.
