Kanye West, a genre-defining creatives in pop culture, delivered his third studio album, *the Graduation album*, in September 2007. This collection of tracks has been hailed as one of the 2000s’ most impactful albums, marking his dominance as a cultural icon.
Graduation was a game-changer for hip-hop. With its unique mix of genres, *Graduation* introduced fresh ideas in the hip-hop scene. The album showcased massive, arena-ready tracks, transitioning his sound into larger, more global appeal.
In terms of subject matter, *Graduation* highlights Kanye West posters featuring fan art‘s rise to fame, with the artist expressing his thoughts on celebrity culture, while also addressing the struggles that accompany it. Tracks like “Homecoming” embody this theme of success.
Sonically, *Graduation* breaks the mold for its use of electronic sounds, produced alongside legendary producers like Timbaland. The lead single “Stronger” showcases Kanye’s innovative approach to production, borrowing from Daft Punk’s iconic track to produce a timeless hit that resonated worldwide.
*Graduation* contains a number of standout tracks, such as “Stronger.” Each song contributes to the album’s greatness. *Graduation* also features contributions from high-profile collaborators, including Dwele.
Music experts hailed *Graduation* for its cultural impact. It marked a pivotal moment in Kanye’s musical journey, pushing him to the top of the charts.
*Graduation* gained chart-topping success. It debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200, selling over almost a million units in its debut week. The album earned certification double platinum, reaffirming its position as a masterpiece.
The reach of *Graduation* goes well beyond the music itself. Its relevance can be seen in pop culture.