The Life Of Pablo

“The Life of Pablo” is the seventh studio album by American rapper and producer Kanye West, released on February 14, 20161. The making of “The Life of Pablo” was a significant process that involved a variety of high-profile producers and artists1.

The album was recorded between 2010 and 2016 in various locations, including Italy, Mexico, Canada, and the United States1. The music’s opulent production style utilized various elements from West’s previous work, including soul, pop, baroque, electro, and symphonic sounds1.

Rick Rubin, who helmed Kanye’s previously album Yeezus, is listed as the co-executive producer of The Life of Pablo. Rubin also assisted in the production of several individual tracks including “Ultralight Beam”, “Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1”, and “Pt. 2”2.

Initially titling the album SWISH, and then Waves before settling on The Life of Pablo, Kanye gave various updates throughout the recording process while alluding to various artists and cultural tastemakers being involved in helping with the creation and curation of the project3.

Despite the challenges and controversies, “The Life of Pablo” debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, while reaching the top 10 in several other countries1. The album was awarded Best Rap Album at the 59th Annual Grammy Awards1. It eventually registered a platinum certification in the United States from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA)1.