Kanye Omari West, born on June 8, 1977, in Atlanta, Georgia, is an influential American rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, and fashion designer. Raised in Chicago, Illinois, his early life was marked by his parents' divorce and his mother's significant influence.

Donda West, an English professor, played a crucial role in his upbringing and later managed his career. Kanye West attended Chicago State University but dropped out to pursue music, a decision that inspired his debut album, "The College Dropout."

His career began as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, where he gained recognition for his work on Jay-Z's album "The Blueprint." His debut album, "The College Dropout," released in 2004, was a critical and commercial success, establishing him as a solo artist.

He followed this with several groundbreaking albums, including "Late Registration," "Graduation," "808s & Heartbreak," and "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy." His music is known for its innovative production, blending various genres and pushing the boundaries of hip-hop.

Some of his best songs include "Gold Digger," "Stronger," "Heartless," "Runaway," and "Power." His work has earned him numerous awards, including 24 Grammy Awards, making him one of the most awarded artists in Grammy history. He has also received the Billboard Artist Achievement Award and the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.

In addition to his music career, Kanye West has made significant contributions to fashion. He launched his Yeezy brand, collaborating with Adidas to create a highly successful line of sneakers and apparel. His ventures into fashion have solidified his status as a cultural icon.

His personal life has often been in the spotlight. He married reality TV star Kim Kardashian in 2014, and they have four children: North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm. The couple's high-profile relationship and subsequent divorce in 2022 have been widely covered by the media.

Kanye West has also been open about his struggles with mental health, particularly his bipolar disorder, which has influenced both his personal life and his music.

As of 2024, his net worth is estimated to be around $400 million, derived from his music, fashion ventures, and various business endeavors. Despite controversies and public scrutiny, Kanye remains a pivotal figure in contemporary culture, known for his artistic innovation and outspoken personality.

His impact on music, fashion, and popular culture continues to be profound, making him one of the most influential artists of his generation.