Who has Kanye West Collaborated With?
Kanye West, the visionary artist and influential figure in the music industry, has consistently pushed boundaries and shattered expectations throughout his career. Known for his unique blend of hip-hop, soul, and experimental sound, Kanye has collaborated with a wide range of talented artists from various genres. These collaborations have not only influenced his own music but have also had a significant impact on the music industry as a whole.
1. Jay-Z
One of the most iconic collaborations in rap history is between Kanye West and Jay-Z. The two powerhouse artists teamed up for their groundbreaking album, “Watch the Throne,” in 2011. This album showcased their lyrical prowess and seamless chemistry, producing hit tracks such as “N****s in Paris” and “Otis.” The collaboration between Kanye and Jay-Z elevated the genre and solidified their status as rap legends.
2. Kid Cudi
Kanye West and Kid Cudi joined forces for their collaborative album, “Kids See Ghosts,” in 2018. This project showcased their shared vulnerability and emotional depth, tackling issues such as mental health. The album received critical acclaim for its experimental sound and introspective lyrics, further solidifying Kanye’s reputation as an innovative artist.
3. Rihanna
Kanye West and Rihanna have collaborated on several memorable tracks throughout the years. One of their most successful collaborations was on the song “FourFiveSeconds” in 2015, featuring Paul McCartney. This acoustic-driven track showcased a different side of Kanye’s artistry and demonstrated his ability to adapt to different genres effortlessly.
4. Bon Iver
Kanye West’s collaboration with Bon Iver, the indie folk musician, resulted in the critically acclaimed track “Lost in the World” from Kanye’s album, “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,” in 2010. The haunting vocals from Bon Iver combined with Kanye’s introspective lyrics created a powerful and emotionally charged track that resonated with listeners.
5. Paul McCartney
One of the most unexpected and intriguing collaborations was between Kanye West and the legendary Paul McCartney. This unlikely duo worked together on the hit track “Only One” in 2014. The song showcased Kanye’s vulnerable side and McCartney’s timeless musicality, blending two different generations of artists seamlessly.
6. Travis Scott
Kanye West has played a significant role in the success of Travis Scott, a prominent figure in modern hip-hop. The two artists collaborated on multiple tracks, with Kanye providing guidance and mentorship to Travis. Their collaborations can be heard in songs such as “Piss On Your Grave” and “Watch.”
7. Frank Ocean
Frank Ocean, the enigmatic and talented R&B artist, has worked closely with Kanye West on various projects. Kanye provided production and songwriting on Frank Ocean’s critically acclaimed album, “Blonde,” released in 2016. Their collaboration enhanced both artists’ musical abilities and resulted in a masterpiece that pushed the boundaries of the genre.
Additional Collaborations Worth Mentioning
In addition to the mentioned collaborations, Kanye West has collaborated with numerous other artists over the years. Here are some notable mentions:
1. Pusha T
Pusha T, a longtime collaborator and friend of Kanye West, has worked on several tracks together, including “Runaway” and “Mercy.” Their partnership has been successful both artistically and commercially.
2. Drake
Kanye West and Drake have had a complex relationship, but they have also collaborated on songs like “Glow” and “Forever.” Their collaborations have created a buzz in the music industry due to their contrasting styles and personalities.
3. Lil Wayne
Kanye West and Lil Wayne have joined forces on various tracks, showcasing their lyrical prowess and artistic abilities. Some notable collaborations include “Lollipop (Remix)” and “See You in My Nightmares.”
4. Alicia Keys
Kanye West’s collaboration with Alicia Keys on the hit track “You Don’t Know My Name (Remix)” highlighted the versatility of both artists and resulted in a memorable and soulful rendition of the original song.
5. John Legend
John Legend, a frequent collaborator and longtime friend of Kanye West, has lent his soulful vocals to several of Kanye’s tracks. Their collaborations can be heard in songs like “Blame Game” and “All of the Lights.”
