Kanye West, now known as Ye’s songs, needs no introduction. Since bursting onto the rap scene, his iconic discography has resonated with everyone, starting with world leaders, celebrities, and fans globally. Be it ‘Jesus Walks’ or ‘Donda’ Ye's odes to power, faith, and family remain timeless masterpieces to this day. Another of his many seminal works, ‘Through the Wire’, recently celebrated a grand milestone, turning 21. Memories of its inception remain vivid, like embers that still glow bright. 

As this masterpiece enters adulthood, the back story behind how this song was conceived remains a treat to fans, worth tracing back in time. 

Broken down by Brandon Shaw on Digging The Greats YouTube channel, the music critic reiterated to fans how the song was created. Ye’s iconic single ‘Through the Wire’ is one of his most beloved songs, but its conception was far from ordinary, said Shaw. The song's genesis was born out of adversity and pain. On October 23, 2002, the rapper's life took a dramatic turn when he fell asleep at the wheel and crashed into another vehicle. The near-fatal accident left him with a fractured jaw in three places, forcing doctors to wire his jaw shut.

Lying in his hospital bed, feeling frustrated and misunderstood–with his rap aspirations stalled, the Atlanta talent found solace in Chaka Khan's 1985 hit ‘Through the Fire’. The song's poignant line, "Right down to the wire, even through the fire," resonated deeply with the injured Ye. Just two weeks after the accident, despite his physical limitations, the Titan began working on what was soon to become his breakthrough single, as he dropped the song on 30th September 2003, blending his signature ‘chipmunk soul’ sampling style with unbridled emotion.

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Leave alone the lyrics, just the way he strained his vocals in a high-pitched tone, adding to the song's haunting authenticity marked Ye's emergence as a rapper. However, there are his other masterpieces, that cemented his status as a visionary artist. 

Like the above-mentioned song, 'Donda's recent anniversary too, sparked a wave of nostalgia on social media, with fans revisiting Ye's tenth studio album. Released in 2022, 'Donda's three-year milestone saw enthusiasts sharing memorable lyrics, iconic tracks, and personal connections to the album. Like ‘Through The Wire’, Donda was also nominated for the Grammys not once but twice.  

Ye's discography boasts an impressive array of timeless classics, with over half of his notable songs earning him a slew of Grammy Awards. From ‘Gold Digger’, to ‘Heartless’, and ‘Ultralight Beam’, Ye's iconic tracks continue to resonate with listeners. His innovative production, coupled with unapologetic storytelling, has just proved its timelessness with his recent hit, 'Vultures'. With 24 Grammy wins, Ye remains one of the most-awarded artists in music history.

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What are your thoughts on the mesmerizing story behind the making of Ye's 'Through The Wire'? Let us know in the comments below.