Graduation
by Kanye West
User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 1249 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,109 out of 1249
  2. Mixed: 42 out of 1249
  3. Negative: 98 out of 1249

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  1. MicheleS
    Nov 21, 2007
    0
    A pile of S&*t. I regard Kanye West as one of the contributers to the decline of the music industry.
  2. NielsT.
    Nov 18, 2007
    10
    it's only good that Kanye West is the best, and on the other hand then he's also the only real good in rap biz. Everything i am, best son in 2000-2007
  3. Lamont
    Nov 17, 2007
    9
    This album isn't a bad one. What sets this set apart is the simplified structure of the songs. While I preferred the ornate production of Late Registration, the production here on Graduation could very well be more focused and cohesive here.
  4. jupioi.
    Nov 15, 2007
    10
    Incredible
  5. cookie_14smith
    Nov 9, 2007
    6
    its not that good it hought he should have neva came out wit anything normally i dnt care bout his song but its not as good as it normally is i could be worng and nobody agrees wit me but all i got to say he sho is a whole lot betta den 50 cent cd
  6. AlexS.
    Nov 7, 2007
    10
    The Classic...
  7. MusicLover
    Oct 29, 2007
    8
    An amazing album- definitely better than 50 Cent's "music". Kanye put all his heart & soul into the music, & all 50 did was put work into the beef they had going on.
  8. PeterP
    Oct 28, 2007
    8
    Nice! If you like Hip-Hop then you'll like this album. It's one of those that you'll be able to listen to over and over.
  9. AdamL
    Oct 21, 2007
    0
    Soul-less garbage. Kanye West is the next P. Diddy.
  10. Lbooige
    Oct 11, 2007
    9
    Great music all the way through.....to all the people out there that rated this cd 1-5 you don't know hip-hop...just stick to your ringtone raps.
  11. luciam
    Oct 10, 2007
    10
    Just great and different .His music is in a high level.
  12. iano
    Oct 5, 2007
    8
    The beats are good, but it lacks real passion theres something a bit plastic bout it, don't get me wrong a good album i just expected more from the saviour of hip hop.
  13. otisc.
    Oct 3, 2007
    10
    Great album, its inspirational and moving. Different from everything out right now. A leap forward for Real authentic Hip-Hop Music especially people who don't carry 40 Caliber pistol.....lol
  14. TristonT.
    Oct 2, 2007
    4
    Kanye West cd is not that great at all i mean the only songs i really like are flashing lights, goodlife and cant tell me nothing, thats it the other songs it just bores me. im really pissed off becuz all these critics are giving it 90's. The best album of the year is Chamillioniare Ultimate Victory. i can actually listen to the whole cd from beginning to end and still be awake. Man Kanye West cd is not that great at all i mean the only songs i really like are flashing lights, goodlife and cant tell me nothing, thats it the other songs it just bores me. im really pissed off becuz all these critics are giving it 90's. The best album of the year is Chamillioniare Ultimate Victory. i can actually listen to the whole cd from beginning to end and still be awake. Man critics are trippin.… Expand
  15. AliA
    Oct 1, 2007
    6
    Kanye's "Graduation" is exactly like he mentions on the first track of the album, "And yes, barely pass any and every class" Yes kanye you did just that. His 3rd album's lyrics are the least thought provoking and kanye chooses once again to take the route of "but I'm doing songs with artists who arent in hop hop!" just like he did on his last album but this time the results Kanye's "Graduation" is exactly like he mentions on the first track of the album, "And yes, barely pass any and every class" Yes kanye you did just that. His 3rd album's lyrics are the least thought provoking and kanye chooses once again to take the route of "but I'm doing songs with artists who arent in hop hop!" just like he did on his last album but this time the results are not there. Graduation is by no means a bad album but something that was overhyped. You will listen to this CD for a few days at most and get tired of all the songs, none of the tracks stand out as classics. Here to hoping that kanye's "master degree" or his next album will be in something besides medicore music.… Expand
  16. ShaanS.
    Sep 23, 2007
    5
    Hands down Kanye's worst album, no substance, no lyrics, the only thing that saves this album is the production quality. In College Dropout we saw a glimpse of a lyrically qualified West, but each album seems to get worse, as if Kanye's book of rhymes has dried up. Please take some time off Mr.West or stick to producing until you can come up with higher quality lyrics, after all Hands down Kanye's worst album, no substance, no lyrics, the only thing that saves this album is the production quality. In College Dropout we saw a glimpse of a lyrically qualified West, but each album seems to get worse, as if Kanye's book of rhymes has dried up. Please take some time off Mr.West or stick to producing until you can come up with higher quality lyrics, after all you are making a Hip-Hop album.… Expand
  17. MikeD.
    Sep 23, 2007
    9
    Kanye proves he is able to make actual music and not just repetitive commercialized rap-pop, with lyrics that are actually saying something new, rather than the standard cookie cutter hip-hop verbiage, Graduation is full of originality and intelligence musically and lyrically - Thank you Mr. West, the Stevie Wonder of hip hop!!
  18. ToddS.
    Sep 22, 2007
    7
    Reminds me of Kanye's first two albums. Some classic stuff with a lot of filler. K. West still has a long way to go when it comes to blessing the mic, but he's a better rhymesayer than most producers (ie. Pete Rock, J-Dilla, and Madlib). Somewhat disappointed with the cameos. There's a wasted opportunity with Mos Def and Lil' Wayne sounds tired on "Barry Bonds." Reminds me of Kanye's first two albums. Some classic stuff with a lot of filler. K. West still has a long way to go when it comes to blessing the mic, but he's a better rhymesayer than most producers (ie. Pete Rock, J-Dilla, and Madlib). Somewhat disappointed with the cameos. There's a wasted opportunity with Mos Def and Lil' Wayne sounds tired on "Barry Bonds." Nonetheless, Kanye still put out decent album, but he's still capable of making better music.… Expand
  19. GeneG.
    Sep 22, 2007
    9
    Easily his most musically satisfying and consistent album. Not as wide in scope as his last two, but that only serves to accentuate the qualitiy of the fewer tracks.
  20. RexJ.
    Sep 22, 2007
    6
    I dont see why people are rating this album so high. I admit there are 5 or 6 solid songs, the other half is very bland filler.
  21. MikeC.
    Sep 22, 2007
    8
    The production is amazing in this album, to bad the raps are self-concieded and lame. Also the overall prodject never feels like an album, just a bunch of songs, this had all the makings in terms of production to be a classic, unfortunatly, Kanye misserably fails at the mic on this attempt.
  22. RashonW.
    Sep 22, 2007
    10
    Not just the greatest rapper of all time but the greatest artist living today. Like Kanye said, if there was a modern day Bible written today he would be the lead character, the narrator and all the acknowledgements would be reserved for Kanye himself. Can anyone stop this man?
  23. AnissaB.
    Sep 21, 2007
    10
    Kanye is a lyrical genius! I love the way he skillfully plays on words. My fav tracks on Graduation are Big Brother, I Wonder, Bittersweet and Can't Tell Me Nothing. But basically all the tracks are bangers, with the exception of Drunk & Hot Girls, [what were you thinkin Ye & Mos Def??]
  24. LiefS.
    Sep 20, 2007
    8
    I liked that he took the skits out; i dont think they were ever important and they messed up the flows of his earlier albums, the production is really good too, the only things that bother me in the album is his ego for thinking hes up there in rapping with big and pac, hes not in the top 15 rappers on my list, but he is one of the top producers, and album sales don't mean to much to I liked that he took the skits out; i dont think they were ever important and they messed up the flows of his earlier albums, the production is really good too, the only things that bother me in the album is his ego for thinking hes up there in rapping with big and pac, hes not in the top 15 rappers on my list, but he is one of the top producers, and album sales don't mean to much to be honest, if they did, ja rule would b a better rapper than biggie.. nuff said.… Expand
  25. DreM.
    Sep 18, 2007
    9
    Kanye doesn't disappoint on this album.
  26. JoeT.
    Sep 18, 2007
    8
    Don't be fooled if you thought the first couple of singles were kinda weak. All the tracks fit remarkable well together, and the album just flows by (both not usually the case for a hip hop album) No skits. No filler. Still, with Jay-z as a mentor you'd think he's rhymes and flow would improve ...and not get worse.
  27. KevinH.
    Sep 17, 2007
    9
    This album is amazing the only drawback that i had was that it is only 13 tracks. I don't understand what some of these critics are talking about when they bash this album. They must have been Kanye haters from the start. Favorite Song: Flashing Lights
  28. WilliamT.
    Sep 17, 2007
    8
    Really this album gets a 7.8 as in C+. Heres the break down throughout Kanye's career (It's all in the numbers): College Dropout - Is a hip-hop classic. Out of 14 tracks (w/out skits) 13 were good with some of those great. The skits for the most part were great compliments, listenable, some useless, some really funny. = A (.92) Late Registration - A great, strong follow-up. The Really this album gets a 7.8 as in C+. Heres the break down throughout Kanye's career (It's all in the numbers): College Dropout - Is a hip-hop classic. Out of 14 tracks (w/out skits) 13 were good with some of those great. The skits for the most part were great compliments, listenable, some useless, some really funny. = A (.92) Late Registration - A great, strong follow-up. The biggest problem with this album was probably the skits, which didn't really blend well with the songs. They still added character to the album though. About 12 (or 13) of the 15 tracks (not skits or interludes) are nice. Plus the Common interlude adds some depth. B+ (.86) Graduation - 10 or 11 of the 13 (not counting the hidden #14) songs are good. Some are more just okay, while others are really good. This gives the album a C+ or B. Its actually missing some catchy skits that could tie this album more to the "School" theme like his previous offerings. C+ (.78)… Expand
  29. Brad
    Sep 17, 2007
    10
    Not a huge fan of Kanye West, but come on. This isn't even fair how unbelievably produced it is.
  30. emilyw
    Sep 17, 2007
    9
    This album is getting majorly slighted just because it's Kanye West and there were serious expectations. If an album of this quality were released by any other rapper, the reviews would be much more positive. For example, this album is much better, both lyrically and musically, than Lupe Fiasco's debut, yet that album has an 82 or 83 on here. Different but just as good as his This album is getting majorly slighted just because it's Kanye West and there were serious expectations. If an album of this quality were released by any other rapper, the reviews would be much more positive. For example, this album is much better, both lyrically and musically, than Lupe Fiasco's debut, yet that album has an 82 or 83 on here. Different but just as good as his last two albums.… Expand
  31. LeonA
    Sep 17, 2007
    10
    Can someone please check the NME review! If you read it carefully, its quite obvious the reviewer is listening to a leaked copy of the album. He even talks about Good Night ft. Mos Def for crying out loud! Just terrible. This album is hot stuff though! only bad track is Drunk and Hot girls the rest is CLASSIC!
  32. RajeshS
    Sep 16, 2007
    9
    Nice use of diverse samples.
  33. ChrisK
    Sep 16, 2007
    10
    Possibly the best album of the year!
  34. justina
    Sep 16, 2007
    10
    way better then the first album!!! i guess 50 aint supportin his next album, since u wooped his ass!!!
  35. christianp
    Sep 16, 2007
    8
    in some ways this is kanye's best album because of the restraint he shows. his first two had an "everything all the time" approach, but this feels more focused. truly original in its combination of french house, american hip-hop, synth strings, real strings, buzzing keys, and soul. i think he is an original lyricist, which is what turns people off. he is in his own world and that in some ways this is kanye's best album because of the restraint he shows. his first two had an "everything all the time" approach, but this feels more focused. truly original in its combination of french house, american hip-hop, synth strings, real strings, buzzing keys, and soul. i think he is an original lyricist, which is what turns people off. he is in his own world and that makes for some captivating music. and why does everybody hate on "barry bonds"!? i think it's amazing. once it ended i had to re-start it to take it all in. great song. great album!… Expand
  36. HynekH.
    Sep 15, 2007
    9
    Great album. Cool sound, good guests.
  37. johno.
    Sep 14, 2007
    10
    AMAZING.
  38. AlexS
    Sep 14, 2007
    9
    Aight. Now I wouldn't say this album is as good as Late Registration (Except the removal of the skits, thank God.) or the triumph that The College Dropout was. But...hell...Kanye proves he is definintely the best producer in the hip-hop game with this album. With such a broad palette of sounds being used....and all of the beats he creates with them being forceful and catchy as hell, Aight. Now I wouldn't say this album is as good as Late Registration (Except the removal of the skits, thank God.) or the triumph that The College Dropout was. But...hell...Kanye proves he is definintely the best producer in the hip-hop game with this album. With such a broad palette of sounds being used....and all of the beats he creates with them being forceful and catchy as hell, he proves it. And I know Kanye may be a little dull lyrically sometimes...but the beats usually compensate...but at other times his lyrics are very clever and humorous. In a lot of songs it's his references to pop culture that keep the lyrics fresh. This album is definitely a welcome addition to Kanye's winning streak and I give it a 9 straight up.… Expand
  39. RickyQ
    Sep 14, 2007
    9
    The whole album still feels like classic Kanye yet most of it sounds nothing like his older stuff. Graduation's beats seem to be more electronic and popish rather than what is usually considered rap/hip-hop. Kanye fans might be turned off by this, but I find it to be rather refreshing. I was disappointed at first with this new sound, but after hearing it quite a few times, it really The whole album still feels like classic Kanye yet most of it sounds nothing like his older stuff. Graduation's beats seem to be more electronic and popish rather than what is usually considered rap/hip-hop. Kanye fans might be turned off by this, but I find it to be rather refreshing. I was disappointed at first with this new sound, but after hearing it quite a few times, it really grew on me. It's a shame that the skits got dropped though, as dumb as they were they were still rather funny. There is still one thing that hasn't changed, Kanye is a lyrical genius. For example, the Back to the Future reference in "Good Morning" is a great as is the Adam and Eve line in "Can't Tell Me Nothing". Even when he rhymes the same word three times in a row, it just works. He has always been different from the norm (especially compared to 50 Cent). Few people can do it like Kanye and this album is proof of that. If you just want to get the top titles off of Graduation make sure you download these: "Good Morning" (it is amazing, the first track which really sets the mood of the album), "Stronger" (the best song on the album), "Can't Tell Me Nothing" (this reminds me of "Diamonds from Sierra Leone"), "Flashing Lights" (a very cool beat), "Homecoming" (very catchy song with some great lyrics), and "Big Brother" (a very nice song to end the album). "Champion" and "Everything I Am" are also pretty good. The only two really sore spots on the album are "Barry Bonds" and "Drunk n Hot Girls" (it's a really annoying song). So in the end Graduation is just as good as his previous efforts. Kanye always releases quality and this album is no exception. Is it his best album? It's hard to say if it is, but it comes really close. All of Kanye's albums are so great that it's hard to pick a favourite especially as this one is so different. But it is safe to say that this is my favourite album of the year. Keep up the good work Kanye!… Expand
  40. SamC.
    Sep 14, 2007
    9
    Another brilliant album from the master of hip-hop. Everyone knows his skills as a producer, but I think he's underapreciated as a lyricist.
  41. MusicalJ
    Sep 14, 2007
    9
    Next to perfect, some of the people here are just hatin. Kanye's a genius; every track is great, nothing to skip. The production and beats are absolute perfection, listen with headphones and you'll catch some nice suprises and nuance's. The lyrics this time around are less substantial in terms of cultural references than the past two efforts, but they're ALL positve Next to perfect, some of the people here are just hatin. Kanye's a genius; every track is great, nothing to skip. The production and beats are absolute perfection, listen with headphones and you'll catch some nice suprises and nuance's. The lyrics this time around are less substantial in terms of cultural references than the past two efforts, but they're ALL positve (which I think is great) and they still reflect Kanye's character, charm, and sense of humor, and that comes out worth a lot. This record is about the individual, the graduate, and what he percieves himself to have accomplished. It's brilliantly conceptualized and the album works best as a whole from "Good Morning" to the story's beginning "Champion", to kickin' back "The Good Life" through why he did it "The Glory", to the home coming "Homecoming" to family business @ home "Big Brother". However, the indivisdual tracks work really well individually as well and these 2 concepts make for one hell of a classic record.… Expand
  42. MikeM
    Sep 13, 2007
    3
    The two leadoff singles were strong enough which lead all to expect the best from this album. However, at the end of the day what we're left with is a sorry excuse for a Kanye album or a rap album in general. The album opens with the completely annoying sample on "Good Morning". "Champion" features some of the better rapping on the album but the song itself is terribly boring. The two leadoff singles were strong enough which lead all to expect the best from this album. However, at the end of the day what we're left with is a sorry excuse for a Kanye album or a rap album in general. The album opens with the completely annoying sample on "Good Morning". "Champion" features some of the better rapping on the album but the song itself is terribly boring. "Stronger" is the catchiest song on the album but the rapping is painfully stupid. "I Wonder" is a terrible song by any standards with another annoying sample and the choppiest stupid rhymes ever put on record. "Good Life" is another radio song but a far inferior to Stronger. "Barry Bonds" and "Drunk Girls" are two desecrations and are an embarasment to rap music. "Flashing Lights" brings the album back to decency but comparing the paparazzi to nazis is kind of ridiculous. "Everything I Am" grounds the album a little bit and saves it from it's electronically influenced consistency. "The Glory" continues in this vein but in all fairness should have been a Common song. "Homecoming" is completely cliched and Common undeniably did it better. "Big Brother" is another droning boring song which makes you wonder what Ye was thinking putting this together. It all ends with "Good Night" yet another boring beat. That pretty much sums it up... make your own conclusions just don't go in expecting much.… Expand
  43. EvinA.
    Sep 13, 2007
    9
    Kanye West is the savior of Hip-Hop. Three Times a Charm
  44. seanm.
    Sep 13, 2007
    8
    Consistent is the word I've definitely heard the most, upon my first listen I can see hear is for a reason. It's a more mature album but lacking some passion and politics that Late Registration embraced... note this may have not been an accident.
  45. MoneyB.
    Sep 13, 2007
    0
    Kanye West should stick to producing . The Only Song that is almost flawless is The Good Life and it is because of T-Pain. He is def a over rated artist who is foolish for going against the best.
  46. AlexL.
    Sep 13, 2007
    9
    This album is definately what I expected from Kanye. Though there are a few songs that could have been better (think "Drunk and Hot Girls), it's an overall solid effort. Kanye has always been a visionary and I think that all three of his albums have showcased his unparalleled artistic talent. I actually quite liked the bonus tracks (Good Night, Bittersweet Poetry), but do agree that This album is definately what I expected from Kanye. Though there are a few songs that could have been better (think "Drunk and Hot Girls), it's an overall solid effort. Kanye has always been a visionary and I think that all three of his albums have showcased his unparalleled artistic talent. I actually quite liked the bonus tracks (Good Night, Bittersweet Poetry), but do agree that Bittersweet Poetry would have been somewhat out of place had it been included on the US release as a main track. All in all, Graduation is a solid album with only minor weak points.… Expand
  47. KyleM.
    Sep 13, 2007
    10
    classic if you don't like it you're lying to yourself
  48. BryanM.
    Sep 13, 2007
    0
    Kanye West is just trash. His music does not even sound like HIP hop its some trash mix of Back Street boys and M J and add some black ness to it. I can not belive anyone likes this guy. 50 cent is a heck lot better. Fuck Kanye that Cock sucker
  49. TylerU-Turn
    Sep 13, 2007
    6
    Sounds about right.
  50. ThorolphJ.
    Sep 13, 2007
    0
    Whenever I hear Kanye rap it makes me wanna puke up my pelvisbone and beat myself to death with it. He's so bad lyrically, a deaf pigeon would spit better. And his production? Please! He was never original, he just started making extremely boring beats, and then kept making the same song for 3 albums. I hate Kanye West. Can't he ever shut the hell up? And can please all the Whenever I hear Kanye rap it makes me wanna puke up my pelvisbone and beat myself to death with it. He's so bad lyrically, a deaf pigeon would spit better. And his production? Please! He was never original, he just started making extremely boring beats, and then kept making the same song for 3 albums. I hate Kanye West. Can't he ever shut the hell up? And can please all the tonedef reviewers out there stop thinking he is good, he's not. He has one flow, one! and its so incredibly annoying.. Like a mosquito when you are trying to sleep. I'd prefer the latter.… Expand
  51. AlexG.
    Sep 13, 2007
    9
    I think the new record's good. A lot of good stuff. Wish it had officially included Bittersweet Poetry which is fantastic. But I'd like to respond to Brendan D. that ABBA's pretty perfect, finely crafted pop music. Even great music curmudgeon (and personal hero) Lester Bangs saw that.
  52. PeterM.
    Sep 13, 2007
    10
    I must say that this is really an upgrade from Kanye West.. Great songs, great flows and most of all.. GREAT effects.. Fx the piano on Homecoming (Ft. Chris Martin of Coldplay).. Kanye has definitely graduated in my eyes, and he has graduated with the highest grade possible! So, I think 50 Cent should just make an end to his career 'cause Kanye beats him big time.. My Top 5 on I must say that this is really an upgrade from Kanye West.. Great songs, great flows and most of all.. GREAT effects.. Fx the piano on Homecoming (Ft. Chris Martin of Coldplay).. Kanye has definitely graduated in my eyes, and he has graduated with the highest grade possible! So, I think 50 Cent should just make an end to his career 'cause Kanye beats him big time.. My Top 5 on Graduation: 1. Homecoming (Ft. Chris Martin) 2. Big Brother 3. Stronger 4. The Glory 5. Everything I Am The intro Good Morning is also great.... I like it all, so people, buy this CD.. You are going to love it!!… Expand
  53. WesT.
    Sep 12, 2007
    10
    Artful, soulful, contemplative, funny, and real. The pure sonic craftmanship displayed is sometimes boggling. Best of '07 thus far.
  54. MarcusH.
    Sep 12, 2007
    10
    i personally love the album kanye is great wayyyy better than 50
  55. JosephA
    Sep 12, 2007
    8
    Excellent, few other artists have managed to creatively alter their signature sound so successfully as Kanye. Everytrack is a keeper. Only thing that comes to my attention is the less substantial lyrics this time around. But Kanye's character, charm, and humor are still present leaving him, despite all his self gratification, human @ heart and that counts for alot.
  56. JavierT.
    Sep 12, 2007
    10
    Awesome!! Finally real hip hop with true lyrics...Can't beat that!
  57. JamalS.
    Sep 12, 2007
    5
    Better than 50 Cent, sure, but the album is still thoroughly mediocre. Ironically, the best songs come from DJ Toomp's production; his epic hooks fit especially well with Kanye's slow, enunciated flow. Get "Can't Tell Me Nothing" and "Big Brother", skip the rest.
  58. NateL.
    Sep 12, 2007
    10
    Spec-tac-u-laaaaaar
  59. SteveO
    Sep 12, 2007
    8
    What makes people hesistant to glorify this album is incredibly high standard that Kanye has set for his releases. Put this next to 'Curtis' and there is no comparison. Clearly, Kanye holds both musical and lyrical supremacy over the hobbling 50. Big Brother is a great tribute to JayZ, Stronger pumps up Daft's song even more, and Good Morning is as good an Intro to a hip What makes people hesistant to glorify this album is incredibly high standard that Kanye has set for his releases. Put this next to 'Curtis' and there is no comparison. Clearly, Kanye holds both musical and lyrical supremacy over the hobbling 50. Big Brother is a great tribute to JayZ, Stronger pumps up Daft's song even more, and Good Morning is as good an Intro to a hip hop album as you'll find.… Expand
  60. chris
    Sep 12, 2007
    8
    Not as good as his first album, but worth the $10.00. good beat and lyrics from the heart. I hope he beats 50. 50 should be ashamed of his new album, pure crap. I want my $$ back
  61. GeraldH.
    Sep 12, 2007
    10
    Kanye is everything hip hop and rap should be all about. He is inventive, creative and breaks new ground. He makes exciting new and interesting material and should be a blueprint for what other rap artists should strive for, as opposed to the ring tone rappers who follow the same tired and over used formulas that went out of style in the late 1990's.
  62. JimJam
    Sep 12, 2007
    4
    Not great not bad. Overall it pales in comparison to the previous two albums.
  63. SaadG.
    Sep 12, 2007
    9
    This album is tight. The beats are top notch. And sampling Daft Punk? pure genius
  64. EdM.
    Sep 12, 2007
    9
    Consistant. The beat for flashing lights is up there with 'what you know' as far as catchiness. Throughout this album it also seems like he's putting forth an aura of personal growth and presence. I enjoyed it a lot.
  65. BrendanD.
    Sep 12, 2007
    3
    Two songs save this from being an utterly useless record: The opening "Good Morning," and the catchy-as-hell "Stronger." But Kanye's samples are not up to snuff with his previous work, and the use of synthesizers isn't as cool as he'd like it to be (hell, it isn't even as cool as it was on "Hey Mama"). The much-lauded collaboration with Chris Martin would have been a Two songs save this from being an utterly useless record: The opening "Good Morning," and the catchy-as-hell "Stronger." But Kanye's samples are not up to snuff with his previous work, and the use of synthesizers isn't as cool as he'd like it to be (hell, it isn't even as cool as it was on "Hey Mama"). The much-lauded collaboration with Chris Martin would have been a cast-off for either artist during their second-album eras; it's especially egregious considering that Chris Martin's vocal lacks the down-home soul of the demo version. Most horrifying, however, is the revelation that Kanye really is making rap music for a white-bread pop audience. This is not a bad audience, mind you; this is the audience that crowned pop greats like ABBA. But Kanye always seemed to have more substance than play-it-in-the-club dance-pop. Maybe we were all just suckered by the emotion he displayed on his first two records, the emotion that's lacking from every song but "Good Morning" on this turkey of a record.… Expand
  66. KevinM.
    Sep 12, 2007
    9
    Kanye shows that he is at the top of his production game. On tracks where he slacks lyrically he makes up for it with beats and vice versa. The feel and the sound of the album is 100% 80's synth with hip hop and I loved every second of it. An amazing album to end the trilogy. My only complaint is he didnt use skits to make it feel more like part of the trilogy.
  67. MattS.
    Sep 12, 2007
    9
    Nobody pays more attention to production Musically this is by far the best hip hop album out there
  68. JamesAutograph
    Sep 12, 2007
    7
    Not terrible...but the beats seem to overshadow his lyrics at times...but still a good listen, though.
  69. RobertS.
    Sep 12, 2007
    8
    this is probably the worst album he has put out but its still fantastic! got rid of the skits and makes a more free flowing album but not as easily accessible as the other twoi. still highly recommended
  70. ThatMusicGuy
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    50 vs. Graduation? hahahaha the real argument is Graduation vs. Neon Bible and Boxer for Album of the Year
  71. KanyeWest
    Sep 11, 2007
    6
    i love puffy and i want to be just like him. i like having the samples overshadow my voice and my beats because if it werent for the samples nobody would know who i am.
  72. JoeU.
    Sep 11, 2007
    8
    This wasn't his best work but its still way better than most rap albums that came out this year.
  73. Ling
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    Great Album, both musically and lyriclly
  74. ClassicBoyyyeee
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    this album is classic kanye is at the top of his game and he made a great decision cutting back on all the damn skits. the intro, homecoming, big brother, and the glory are all standout tracks.good life is destined to become a smash hit. this is easily the best hip-hop album of the year
  75. MarioV.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    Two Rappers: One represents the Status Quo of hip hop, guns, bitches and bling, and the other represents hip hop in all its glory: what it was at its creative peak and what it hopefully will revert to in the future. Today, both their CD
  76. AlexV.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    this album is ridiculous every song is at least 4 stars out of 5 flashing lights, stronger, good morning, big brother shit the whole album is straight FIRE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BUY OR DIE
  77. LucaA.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    fantastic
  78. ChrisC
    Sep 11, 2007
    7
    It sounds pretty good. At some times it seems like he picked a sample based on how cool he thought it would make him sound, then worked backwards to build the song. He had no business rapping over Daft Punk's 'Bigger Better Faster Stronger'. But his self-opinion aside, it's a pretty good listen.
  79. JasonH.
    Sep 11, 2007
    8
    Graduation is maybe Kanyes best cd
  80. AdamE.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    This album is amzing and I am not even a big rap fan a must buy for 2007! My favorite songs are Good Morning,Stronger,Good Life,Champion and Can't Tell Me Nothing! Go Get It!
  81. RahatS.
    Sep 11, 2007
    9
    reinventing music one album at a time
  82. KyleZ.
    Sep 11, 2007
    8
    Kanye as a producer is the greatest out there. As a rapper, he is still better than most
  83. SpencerM.
    Sep 11, 2007
    1
    lyrical mediocrity overshadows any skill that kanye has behind the boards, not to mention his ridiculous pretentious content. somebody call puffy and tell him a twin brother has been discovered. peace
  84. JoshN.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    Easily Ye's most personal album. Definitely as good, if not better than college dropout or late registration. Shows musical prowess, and shows his intimate sides. Big brother is an amazing track, as is the good life. Check it out
  85. BrianM.
    Sep 11, 2007
    9
    Kanye continues to push the envelope with this album. This is a departure from his usual style, but it's good the first time around and more importantly for an album, you'll find yourself humming the songs for weeks afterwards. Maybe not terribly dance-able but as music it's a triumph. Hopefully some other artists (Lupe Fiasco?) start heading in different directions like Kanye continues to push the envelope with this album. This is a departure from his usual style, but it's good the first time around and more importantly for an album, you'll find yourself humming the songs for weeks afterwards. Maybe not terribly dance-able but as music it's a triumph. Hopefully some other artists (Lupe Fiasco?) start heading in different directions like Kanye has done. Much better than Curtis.… Expand
  86. EmilS.
    Sep 11, 2007
    9
    Production solid all the way through. Sometimes the lyrics and delivery of same is clumsy but mostly pretty decent.
  87. JakeS.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    Consistent is one thing Kanye's albums have been. He doesn't break the mold with "Graduation". I can't recall many artists who's first 3 records were considered "album of the year" candidates each time one was released. Amazing.
  88. Spree
    Sep 11, 2007
    9
    Not as great as his last album, but that's like saying a porsche is not as nice as a ferrarri.
  89. Ms.T.
    Sep 11, 2007
    8
    I think it is in the middle between the 1st and 2nd but one thing it is and that is good. Production is great and as a lyricist he has improved a great deal. I think he is one of the few that can smoothly make the transition from producer to mc. Kanye's got my top vote for the battle of the cds between him and that other dude!! Great job Ye!
  90. JubileeW.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    Kanye doesnt dissapoint. Once more he has produced and written an amazing album. From the in depth lyrics of Big Brother to the ever imaginative and eye opening Flashing Lights, or to the old skool soul of The Glory. Another masterpiece.
  91. RichardJ.
    Sep 11, 2007
    4
    This album is not very good is fact number 1 and 50 ' s is in the same field Number 2, It is like Kingdom Come by Jay-Z nice clean production, nice layering in parts but no balls Fact 3 Another factor the songs are monotous, boring and fairly uninteresting, whereas Both College dropout and Late registartion had some great productions on this album i can't tel you one what stands This album is not very good is fact number 1 and 50 ' s is in the same field Number 2, It is like Kingdom Come by Jay-Z nice clean production, nice layering in parts but no balls Fact 3 Another factor the songs are monotous, boring and fairly uninteresting, whereas Both College dropout and Late registartion had some great productions on this album i can't tel you one what stands out as a KAyne classic-sronger is not a classic and makes me wonder how he can get away with one of the most borign porductions he has done Fact 4 This album is lazy, and clearly overhyped, Kayne is better then this , he shpuld have wokred on it more, no british reivews added here and i know why as they would put the score down on this album 2 out of 5 guardian and others to name the score of four is that i believe kayne can do a better album nnd I liek Kaynes music (i don;t hate him so it is horribel for me to slate him) everything i am. i wonder and electricity nights are good jams..… Expand
  92. LarryC.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    It
  93. EdwardH.
    Sep 11, 2007
    8
    I'm givin' him an 8/10 since I have so many rap artists like him dat are as good as he is, and don't getz me wrong I have luv 4 him its just I'd prefer artists like Nas over him. His alwayz lyrically at his best at all times but I won't be buyin' his stuff datz all. I don't feel him as much as I feel my otha rappers like him. but good kudoz 2 him and tha I'm givin' him an 8/10 since I have so many rap artists like him dat are as good as he is, and don't getz me wrong I have luv 4 him its just I'd prefer artists like Nas over him. His alwayz lyrically at his best at all times but I won't be buyin' his stuff datz all. I don't feel him as much as I feel my otha rappers like him. but good kudoz 2 him and tha sucess of this "Graduation " record. Peace… Expand
  94. RoyalC.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    It's Kanye...exactly what the doctor ordered.
  95. TomS.
    Sep 11, 2007
    0
    I think this album deserves a rating of 4, but I gave it a 0 just to counter some of the overhyped 10's he's been getting. As a matter of fact, both 50 and Kanye have put out uninspired albums at the same time, but at least this is the better of the two. The problem here isn't with the lyrics (which are just decent, not remarkable), but with the production. The hip-hop I think this album deserves a rating of 4, but I gave it a 0 just to counter some of the overhyped 10's he's been getting. As a matter of fact, both 50 and Kanye have put out uninspired albums at the same time, but at least this is the better of the two. The problem here isn't with the lyrics (which are just decent, not remarkable), but with the production. The hip-hop community is seriously off if this can even be considered 'innovative'. 50's beats may be boring, but at least all of his songs don't rely too heavily on samples; the way many of the songs on Graduation do. 50 and Kanye have truly exceeded the worst expectations with these latest releases. Neither of these albums even show a fraction of the potential their debut albums did. And they wonder why the music business is going down the drain?… Expand
  96. ****
    Sep 11, 2007
    9
    KanYe on the inside, Murakami on the outside. Who wouldn't like this album?
  97. JaleelW.
    Sep 11, 2007
    10
    Kanye's best and a shoe-in for Album of the Year at the Grammys. R.I.P. 50 Cent. His retirement will spawn a new revolution in rap.
  98. DanA
    Sep 11, 2007
    9
    Graduation seems to be very risky. An electronic sound, almost no guest appearances, and no skits. Kanye should be out of his element. But aside from Drunk and Hot Girls, the album is amazing. As good as it is, it's not better than his first two.
  99. ScottS.
    Sep 10, 2007
    10
    wow
  100. MatthewS.
    Sep 10, 2007
    10
    Another outstanding accomplishment from Kanye! "I Wonder" is my absolute favorite, but I've grown pretty fond of the entire album! If you can get your hands on the bonus track "Good Night" .. well, do so! It's phenomenal, too!
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Awards & Rankings

91
#91 Best Album of 2007
8
#8 Most Discussed Album of 2007
6
#6 Most Shared Album of 2007

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 32 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 25 out of 32
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 32
  3. Negative: 0 out of 32
  1. The New York Times
    Feb 9, 2011
    70
    Nearly every song on Graduation is memorable for both its hooks and its overall sound.
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  2. AllMusic
    80
    Graduation is neither as bold nor as scattered as "The College Dropout," and it's neither as extroverted nor as sonically rich as "Late Registration." Kanye still makes up for his shortcomings as an MC and lyricist by remaining charmingly clumsy, frequently dealing nonsense through suspect rhyme schemes.
    Read full review
  3. Billboard
    80
    An impressively creative hip-hop album that will hopefully inspire West's peers to try new sonic avenues.
    Read full review
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