Kanye West

A producer-turned-rapper who single-handedly redefined hip-hop across five distinct eras. From soul-sampling boom bap (College Dropout, Late Registration) to euphoric stadium rap (Graduation), confessional electronic pop (808s & Heartbreak), maximalist orchestral hip-hop (My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy), and abrasive industrial rap (Yeezus) — few artists have reinvented themselves so completely, so many times, while remaining instantly recognisable. Beyond music, West's influence extends into fashion, visual art, and culture at large. His polarising public persona has never diminished the quality of his best work. New to the catalogue? Start with The College Dropout for the foundation, or My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy for the peak.