Kanye West is a renowned rapper and producer born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1977. He grew up in Chicago where his mother was a professor after his parents divorced when he was three years old. West dropped out of college to pursue a career in music where he began producing for local artists. His debut album "The College Dropout" in 2004, which included the hit single "Through the Wire" recorded after suffering a near-fatal car accident. West has since released several successful albums and founded the Kanye West Foundation to help address dropout rates through music education.

1. Kanye WestMore than just a rude person.

2. The BeginningBorn June 8, 1977 in Atlanta, GAFather: Ray West, a former Black Panther.Mother: Donda West, a Professor at Clark Atlanta UniversityKanye only spent 3 years in Atlanta

3. Growing UpParents divorced at age 3.He moved to Chicago with his motherShe became an English professor at Chicago State UniversityThis is where Kanye grew up.

4. The College DropoutGot good grades in high school.Started college at American Academy of Art in ChicagoLater enrolled at Chicago State University, but dropped out for music.

5. Early Music CareerBegan producing for local artistsHe later started gaining fame by producing/making beats for major artistsJay ZPaul WallAlicia KeysMore

6. First SingleInvolved in a near fatal car crash on his way home from the studioSparked inspiration for first single titled “Through the Wire”Recorded while his mouth was wired shut

7. Debut AlbumFirst album titled “The College Dropout”Released February of 2004 on Roc-a-Fella Records, founded by Jay-ZIncluded hits like “Through the Wire,” and “Jesus Walks”

8. Other AlbumsKanye went on to release 3 more albums, and is currently working on his fifth studio album.Late Registration-2005Graduation-2007808’s and Heartbreaks-2008

9. Kanye West FoundationFormed with help of Donda WestHelp solve drop out problem in America by giving kids access to music production programs.Helps provide good output for creativity

10. HomecomingMTV special to help veterans returning get back on their feet from Iraq.Paid 6 months rentAn entire weeks worth of studio timeA new microphoneAn Internship at a local radio station.