This is how I was introduced to Kanye West. At the time, the rising star wowed America with this chill-inducing rendition of “Jesus Walks.” Kanye showed off his extreme passion, massive ambition, and theatrical flair. He was a fresh face in his genre, and he was something special.

Fast-forward three and a half years. West is the number one name in music. He is hailed as one of the best, if not the best rapper in the world. But when he premieres his new song, “Love Lockdown,” at the MTV Music Video awards, something strange happens about two minutes in. That’s when people realize that the self-proclaimed “voice of the generation” isn’t rapping, but singing. The entire song.

All artists shift styles at some point in their life. It’s part of the creative process! But as gutsy as Kanye’s move was, it still had many people wondering: “Where are you, Yeezy?”

As more of 808s and Heartbreak leaked, however, people began to see what the legendary rapper/producer was doing- making original, catchy, and ultimately great music. While it still pains me that Kanye isn’t quite as good of a singer as he sounds on the tracks (due to the wonders of Auto-Tune), I’ve gotten over it and have come to respect his incredible ear for beats, hooks, and production value. Continue reading →