Graduation is the third studio album by the American rapper and record producer Kanye West released on September 11, 2007, through Def Jam Recordings and Roc-A-Fella Records. Recording sessions took place between 2005 and 2007 at several studios in New York and Los Angeles. It was primarily produced by West himself, with contributions from various other producers, including DJ Toomp. The album features guest appearances from recording artists such as Dwele, T-Pain, Lil Wayne, Mos Def, DJ Premier, and Chris Martin. The cover art and its interior artwork were designed by Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami.
Graduation (album)
West's experiences on arena rock tours such as U2's Vertigo Tour (pictured) inspired his direction for the album.
Connie Mitchell contributed vocals to several songs on the album.
The track "Everything I Am" features turntable scratches by famed record producer DJ Premier
Ye is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, and fashion designer. A subject of widespread controversy and public interest, West is a significant figure in contemporary pop culture.
West in April 2009
West received early acclaim for his production work on Jay-Z's The Blueprint. The two are pictured here in 2011.
West in Portland in December 2005 as a supporting act for U2 on their Vertigo Tour
West performing in 2008