Album Release Saga
Kanye West’s tenth studio album Donda was released on August 29, 2021, after a chaotic rollout featuring multiple listening events at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Chicago’s Soldier Field. The album, named after Kanye’s late mother, underwent constant revisions even after its initial release.
Listening Events
The stadium listening events became cultural phenomena, livestreamed to millions. Kanye lived in the stadium between events, working on the album in real-time. The events featured elaborate staging, surprise appearances, and evolving tracklists.
Commercial Success
Donda debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 with 309,000 album-equivalent units, despite its length (27 tracks, 108 minutes) and unconventional rollout. The album marked Kanye’s tenth consecutive #1 debut.
Controversies
The album featured collaborations with controversial figures including Marilyn Manson and DaBaby, both facing their own scandals. Kanye’s ongoing feud with Drake (released CLB a week later) added to the drama. His requests for features from artists he’d feuded with created additional headlines.
Related Hashtags
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