Kanye West is a man of many credits and has been the individual who inspires tons of individuals worldwide. Apart from young artists who look up to him, various popular musicians are inspired by the rapper. Despite his controversies and legal feuds, one cannot deny the fact that he is a creative genius. The 22-time Grammy award winner is a multi-industry tycoon. However, while everyone is aware of his success now, American standup comedian Dave Chappelle knew that the rapper would be successful back in 2004.

Dave Chappelle and Kanye West’s friendship is not unknown to the masses. Time and again, the two celebrities are spotted hanging out with each other. However, the duo first met in 2004 when the rapper performed on the Chappelle show. It was during that time when Dave Chappelle knew that the Flashing Lights hit maker would be a star. But it was not his performance, but an incident that happened backstage that convinced the comedian.

Dave Chappelle knew Kanye West would be a star back in 2004

In 2004, Dave Chappelle featured on the Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon where he recalled his first encounter with Kanye West. Chappelle booked the Gold Digger singer to perform on his show back then. Interestingly, it was the first time the 808s and Heartbreaks rapper performed on television. The comedian revealed that it was the same day  Jay-Z dropped his Black album.

Soon after his performance, West, Dave and rapper Common were watching some unseen skits. During the time, the Donda Sports owner got a call where he picked up and said, “Hello. No, no I can’t because I’m at the edit for the Dave Chappelle Show.“ Before hanging up, he added, “Cause my life is dope and I do dope s–t.“

The TV show host revealed that it was the phone call incident that assured him that West would be a star. Furthermore, Chappelle even praised the rapper comparing him with the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali.

However, in recent times, it is the controversies surrounding West that make the headlines. From anti-Semitic comments to lost deals with brands and divorce from Kim Kardashian, the rapper has been in the news for all the wrong reasons in the recent past.

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