Kanye West is a newsmaker like no other. The rapper, who is synonymous with the modern hip-hop music industry, is a towering yet controversial figure within the music industry. Even so, his influence on the current generation of musicians is undeniable. However, the rapper has not released any new music in a long time. Regardless, his last album, ‘Donda’, which debuted about two years back, still continues to spark talks.

In a lesser-known story, West had once opened up as to why he decided to make ‘Donda’. Interestingly, he even likened himself to the Marvel titan, Thanos, on his decision to make the album!

Kanye West had a very compelling reason to make Donda

Kanye West or Ye, as he goes by, has had a stellar music career. The rapper who started out in the early 2000s had a Grammy for himself by 2005. Additionally, Ye has gone on to shape the next generation of artists through his music. However, right before ‘Donda’, the scenario was quickly changing. The very artists that Ye had an influence and edge over were surpassing him. Most notably, he was concerned with the rapid ascension up the charts of his rival, Drake.

In a YouTube interview with Revolt, West says, “..i affect people 20 years older than me and i affect people 20 years younger than me.” The ‘Flashing Lights’ singer highlights how fellow rappers like Drake, Tyler the Creator, and Kendrick Lamar were producing good and enviable music that topped the charts and left West far behind.

In an attempt to prove himself again, West set out to compose ‘Donda’, which is dedicated to and named after his late mother. “…i literally had to go like Thanos,” he added. Perhaps looking to draw a parallel as to how he had to show the music industry who the real one in charge was. In his own words, “You got to tell people who you are man…”

With ‘Donda’, Kanye West reclaimed his spot as a hip-hop revolutionary. Additionally, his album has gone on to stay at number one on international charts in many countries. However, once again, Kanye West’s dominance is under threat.

Ye’s records and musical dominance are in urgent need of a fresh makeover

Kanye West released ‘Donda’ amidst much fanfare and like a true legend. In order to promote the album, he threw an unannounced listening party that sold out to a massive crowd. Additionally, the album, which was West’s tenth studio, became the biggest debut on Spotify and Apple Music the very day that it was released. ‘Donda’ brought on Kanye West as the legendary hip-hop artist he was always known for. However, the celebrations were and are now short-lived.

Mere days after ‘Donda’s’ release, West’s rival, Drake released ‘Certified Lover Boy’, which quickly outnumbered the streaming figures that West’s album had set. In 2023, Kanye West has yet to release any music. Despite rumors of him collaborating with local Japanese artists during his recent visit to the country, nothing substantial has come so far. Meanwhile, rappers such as Travis Scott and Tyler The Creator who have publicly admitted to being influenced by and being an admirer of West are now on track to beat his records.

What do you think of Kanye West’s reason for making ‘Donda’? What do you think of the recent shake-ups in the hip-hop industry? Let us know in the comments below.