What Is Kanye West Day? Why Is It Celebrated in Atlanta?

Published 07/22/2024, 8:58 PM EDT

via Getty

Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, is a name synonymous with global fame and glory. As one of the most iconic and influential rappers of all time, he has enjoyed a level of success and admiration unrivaled by many. His exclusive rapping style coupled with an aggregative, unapologetic persona has established himself as a music legend. So much so that a whole day was dedicated to his tribute, proving his enduring influence on the music industry and popular culture. 

With a career spanning over two decades, Ye has been enjoying the fruits of his hardship through ways still unknown.

Ye’s hometown bestowed the rapper with a lifelong honor

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It was the year 2021 when the city of Atlanta declared July 22 as 'Kanye West Day' following a sold-out listening party for his album 'DONDA', according to an exclusive TMZ report. Held at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the event boasted of a barrage of stars and was naturally a success. This honor is akin to Ye's impact on the music industry and his hometown of Atlanta.

Following the event, Ye was presented with a plaque commemorating the day as his own, leaving him emotional backstage. That was the first of two significant gifts the then 44-year-old rapper received, recognizing his achievements and contributions to music. The plaque serves as a reminder of his legacy and influence on the city of Atlanta.

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The plaque and the recognition were not all that was bestowed on Ye's plate, as the rapper had another emotionally wreaking award waiting for him.

What else did Ye receive as a part of the honor?

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The 'Donda' rapper was presented with the Dr. Donda West Meritorious Service award, honoring his late mother's legacy. Donda West, Ye’s mother, was a respected member of Morris Brown College, serving as a teacher and Chair of the English Department for almost 20 years. While Ye has waxed poetic about her efforts on several occasions, this award however truly puts into the limelight her impact on the HBCU community.

via Getty

Ye was visibly moved as he received the award, especially since it paid tribute to his late mother. According to TMZ, the rapper got "super emotional" as he accepted the honor in front of his family and friends. The heartfelt moment showed how much Ye loves and misses his mom, and how much this award meant to him. Now, as his rumored retirement nears, fans can only expect to see more of the rapper in award shows and series as such. 

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What are your thoughts on the Kanye West Day as imposed by Atlanta? Let us know in the comments below. 

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Shraddha Suman

1833 articles

Shraddha Das is a Content Lead and the Sub Group Head at Netflix Junkie. Captivated by the power of storytelling and the written word at a young age, which led her to pursue a career in journalism at the Esteemed KIIT School of Journalism and Mass Communication, in Orissa. She has over 1500 articles to her name.

Edited By: Aliza Siddiqui

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