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| Um... if you say so, Yeezy. |
Even with the limited streaming source, TLOP soared on the charts, reaching 250 million streams in the first 10 days of its release. In addition, it was downloaded illegally an estimated 500,000 times the day after its release. The last week of March, Kanye released a single (controversial!) track, Famous, on Spotify, Google Play Music, and Apple Music. This release sparked a new wave of new listeners and downloads. Suddenly, on April Fool's Day, TLOP is released for sale and full streaming. As of this week, TLOP has reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 Chart, Kanye's seventh consecutive album to do so. However, it is the first album to reach this spot primarily through streaming.
So what made TLOP so famous? In fact, what makes Kanye himself so famous? Kanye West is the embodiment of "bad publicity is still publicity." Between his hatred for paparazzi and his crazy antics, he is constantly in the news. Ever since 2009, when Kanye butted in on Taylor Swift's VMA acceptance speech, he has been in the spotlight, usually doing something crazy and controversial. He sparked the shutter shade revolution and various other trends. His clothing line is arguably out of left field, as well as his Yeezy shoes, but continue to sell. Kanye also changed the album title several times within the few weeks preceding its release. However, the quality of his music and production is undeniable. Above all, Kanye is now a household name.
Though Kanye does not have the best reputation, he at least has a reputation. His PR is a nightmare, but as a brand, he stands strong. Is it truly that he is out of his mind or has he created a persona that will continue to earn him followers and a place in the news? We may never know. Regardless, Kanye West is here to stay, and I am sure he will continue to keep us all on our feet.
Until next time!
Kathryn
