Kanye west is a Grammy-winning rapper, songwriter, producer, fashion designer and entrepreneur from Chicago. West had an early interest in the arts; he started writing poetry at age 5, and by third grade he was already rapping. Early in his career, West made beats for various artists, including, notably, Jay-Z. Kanye’s debut album as a rapper, The College Dropout, was released in 2004. Discography: The College Dropout (2004), Late Registration (2005), Graduation (2007), 808s & Heartbreak (2008), My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (2010), Yeezus (2013), The Life of Pablo (2016).