The “Cruel Summer” of Kanye West

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Sep 18, 2012

By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

Sitting above the game with Jay-Z on their Throne, Kanye West flew under the radar, while dominating the radio waves. Receiving just as much, if not more, radio play than Rick Ross and Lil Wayne, Kanye West was overlooked. Entering the fourth month of 2012, many wondered what happened to Kanye, who promised a solo album in 2011.

Triumphantly, Kanye West returned with “Theraflu,” with DJ Khaled. The song would go through two name changes before settling upon “Cold.” On the song, Kanye West confirmed his long-rumored romance with Kim Kardashian. A portion of the song would be played on “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” her E! reality show.

Both the Kim Kardashian relationship and the new energy would set the stage for Cruel Summer, the album Kanye West intended to release with G.O.O.D. Music. Big Sean announced the album last summer, during the impressive Maybach Music run. With Maybach Music and Young Money developing into crews, Kanye West made G.O.O.D. Music official and planned an album.

“Cold” would be followed by the G.O.O.D. Music remix of “I Don’t Like,” which was originally created by Chief Keef. Kanye West kept his original hook, but added verses from Pusha T, Big Sean, Jadakiss, and of course himself. The same concept was followed on “Mercy,” but it was Big Sean, Pusha T, 2 Chainz replacing Jadakiss, and Kanye West closing the song. Even with the long-awaited Nas comeback taking place during the summer and Rick Ross releasing God Forgives, I Don’t, Kanye West was still in the top five during the summer.

During the summer of 2012, Kanye West has enjoyed numerous victories, starting with the Kim Kardashian relationship. His wins also include the Cruel Summer short film, the success of 2 Chainz, Pusha T’s continued growth, and the continious rise of Big Sean into superstardom. All in all, the Cruel Summer Kanye West has endured has indeed been very kind to him. Today, the album finally hit retail stores following numerous delays.