Graduation is the third studio album by the American rapper known as Kanye West, or Ye. Graduation was released on September 11, 2007, through Def Jam recordings and Roc-A-Fella records. The recording sessions took place in several studios in New York and Los Angeles between 2005 to 2007. The main genres of this album are hip-hop, electronic music, and alternative hip-hop, with the length of the album being fifty-one minutes and twenty-three seconds. Graduation was mainly produced by Ye himself, with contributions from other producers such as Dwele, T-Pain, Lil Wayne, Mos Def, DJ Premier, and Chris Martin. The cover art is designed by Takashi Murakami, who worked on the album artwork for Kanye’s later album in 2018.
Are you Living under a rock like Patrick and have no clue who Kanye West is? If you are, Kanye West, formally known as Ye, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer, born on June 8, 1977 in Atlanta, Georgia, where he studied at the American Academy of Art College, and Chicago State University. Kanye is one of the most prominent figures in hip-hop, and is also known for his varying music style and polarizing cultural and political commentary. Graduation debuted at number one on the US billboard 200, having sold over 957,000 copies in the first week of sales. Since 2007, it has sold over 7 million copies in the US and has also been certified septuple platinum by the recording industry association of america.
On my Tiktok, I posted a ‘about me’ video: music edition, where I basically just put what I listen to. Then I mentioned that I was thinking about getting into Kanye, and everyone in the comments said, ‘get into Kanye, the first 4 albums are life-changing!’ Someone even said, ‘Hop on Kanye, it will change your life.’ So, I gave Graduation a listen, and here’s what I think. The big question you are probably wondering is: will I become one with the Kanye fans and join in on the trainwreck, or will I absolutely hate it and just stay a Swiftie? I guess you are about to find out. Now, I will give my honest opinion on each of the tracks featured on the album, such as “Good Morning”, “Can’t Tell Me Nothing”, “Everything I Am”, and a few others.
- Good Morning
This track serves as an opener, and while it may be a little bland and basic, it subtly hints at the album’s overall theme. The instrumental creates a kind of chill vibe that I really enjoy. The message of the song emphasizes that it’s about the journey, not just the destination–the experiences we have along the way are just as valuable as the journey is, even after graduation. Kanye delivers a motivational message here, and he absolutely shines on the cowbell. I rate this song a solid 8.5 out of 10.
- Champion
From the first beat, I’m immediately hit with an uplifting vibe and solid bars, which can be expected from Ye. This track feels motivational and could easily fit into a work-out playlist. The jazzy elements and the reggae bridge add a unique flavor to the song, though it lacks a deeper message, focusing more on Ye’s larger-than-life ego. The line, “Lauryn Hill said her heart was in Zion / I wish her heart was still in rhyming.” stood out to me the most–Lauryn Hill’s talent is mentioned, and it is really cool that Ye recognizes that. I give this song a solid 8 out of 10.
- Stronger
With a sample from Daft Punk, the energy of this track is definitely undeniable. My favorite line, “You should be honored by my lateness / that I would even show up to this fake shit,” captures Ye’s essence perfectly–It is so Ye. Despite being a banger, It does not truly showcase Ye’s lyrical depth; it is more about his self-image, and how people should roll out a red carpet for him because he is simply just Kanye West. I rate this song a 9 out of 10.
- I Wonder
Listening to the lyrics, Ye expresses his struggles with a girl, repeatedly questioning the issue at hand. This song feels kind of spiritual, reflecting on Ye’s belief in God and revealing his self-importance. I appreciate the chill, yet not overly hyped, instrumental. I give this track a 9.5 out of 10.
- Good Life
This fun and carefree song radiates positivity in full-on Ye style. While the beat remains consistent, it does not detract from the hype in general. The song evokes a feeling of celebration and has the ability to brighten a bad day with its enjoyable day–even if it does not brighten your bad day, It definitely brightens Ye’s. I rate this song a 9.5 out of 10. Extra brownie points for Yeezy.
6.Can’t Tell Me Nothing
I love the smooth flow and strong bars in this track. It’s a reflection of Ye’s wealth and power, highlighting his big ego, larger than him. The mysterious atmosphere is catchy, making it one of my favorites on the album. I rate this song a 10 out of 10.
- Barry Bonds
The synth riffs create a fantastic atmosphere, even if the musical perspective isn’t Ye’s best. The song still remains catchy and impactful, offering listeners an energetic and positive vibe. I give it an 8 out of 10.
- Drunk And Hot Girls
The first thing I noticed about this song is that it is ambitious, sort of experimental but doesn’t fully succeed. While it may appeal to fans of Ye’s avant-garde style, its problematic lyrics and lack of depth to me, is one of the weaker songs on the album. However, I do enjoy the part towards the end, kind of. I give it an honest 6.5 out of 10.
- Flashing Lights
The lyricism, combined with the synths and the clear bass line featuring violin evokes strong emotions. This hyped song would fit perfectly on a homecoming playlist, improved by the 70’s funkadelic beats. I rate it an 8 out of 10.
- Everything I am
This one has to be my favorite track on this entire album. Ye’s self-awareness and acceptance shines through the catchy lyrics, with the vibe being beautiful as a whole. Ye is so honest, his emotional expression standing out within the entire song, earning it a 10 out of 10.
- The Glory
This song is a raw declaration of Ye’s self-perceived greatness and his relentless pursuit of recognition. It proves that his lifestyle is extravagant, also showcasing his confidence and vulnerability–Again, that is so yeezy of him. I rate this one a 9 out of 10.
- Homecoming
Featuring Chris Martin on the piano from Coldplay, this song is an ode to Ye’s hometown, Chicago, is nostalgic and beautiful. I rate it a 9 out of 10.
- Big Brother
As the final track, I initially wondered why Ye chose “Big Brother,” given its specific focus on his relationship with Jay-Z. However, I see this one sort of as a closing of a cycle, recognizing Jay’s influence while establishing his own place in hip-hop. I give it an 8 out of 10.
- Good night
This song serves itself as a fitting conclusion track with the reggae vibes and smooth rhythms. It reflects on the transient nature of time and the bittersweet feeling of parting. The collaboration with Mos Def adds depth, transforming the closing track into a farewell, peaceful “Good Night,” I rate it an 8 out of 10.
In conclusion, I give this album an 8 out of 10, 3 stars out of 5. My favorite tracks are “Everything I Am”, “Barry Bonds”, “Homecoming”, and “Can’t Tell Me Nothing.” I feel inspired by Ye’s work, and it’s clear that my life has changed already just by listening and reviewing this album.
