Blog entry by Taj Elsass
Mr. West, the legendary artist, pushed the boundaries of creativity with the release of his third studio album, *Graduation (2007)*. Launched on September 11, 2007, *Graduation* marked the conclusion of his "college" trilogy, following *College Dropout* and *Late Registration*.
The *Graduation album* was more than just a musical project. Containing massive hits like *Stronger*, the album highlighted Kanye’s bold experimentation, combining elements of Euro-pop with his signature rap style.
One of the most unforgettable aspects of the *Graduation* is its cover art, featuring the work of the famous Japanese artist renowned contemporary artist Takashi Murakami. The *Graduation cover* displayed Kanye's symbolic bear, being launched into a surreal world. This blend of hip-hop culture and Murakami's playful yet intricate design embodied Kanye’s growth as an artist.
Listeners applauded the *Graduation album* for its bold experimentation. Kanye worked alongside iconic musicians like Daft Punk to engineer a sound that redefined the sound of mainstream rap. The result was an album that cemented Kanye's place as a music innovator, but also changed the course of mainstream rap.
One of the standout tracks on the album is *Stronger*, built around Daft Punk’s iconic *2001 classic Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger*. This hit single perfectly captured the blending of electronic music and rap. It quickly turned into a radio smash, dominating charts globally. The Stronger music video, directed by Hype Williams, displayed a sleek, futuristic aesthetic.
Another notable track is *Good Life*, that included T-Pain’s catchy hooks. The track is an ode to success, beautifully matching the album’s themes of success. Listeners were drawn to its upbeat message.
With its lyrics, *Graduation* explores ideas of the price of stardom. Kanye speaks about his struggles with fame, as he combining personal reflection with confidence. Songs like *Can't Tell Me Nothing* showcase Kanye’s personal battles.
*Graduation (2007)* was not just a groundbreaking project; it marked a transformation in Kanye's music. The body of work set the stage for his subsequent albums, particularly 808s & Heartbreak.
*kanye
west graduation tracklist's Graduation* remains a enduring
album, continuing to inspire generations.