Late Registration
by Kanye West
User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 1302 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,153 out of 1302
  2. Mixed: 39 out of 1302
  3. Negative: 110 out of 1302

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  1. DelkoChateau
    Aug 28, 2023
    10
    An underrated follow up to the College Dropout that serves as a better project than its older brother. I was always one of those people that said that College Dropout was much better and that Kanye had a sophomore slump. Well, I said that until I listened to it, there is not a single miss and I cannot believe how people don't talk about this more.
  2. Hockster
    Aug 14, 2023
    9
    Kayne's follow-up 2nd studio album to TCD hit's really hard. Once again, the lyricism and instrumentals live up to (and sometimes exceed) my expectations. I feel as if the interludes are a tad bit harder to listen through with this project, along with some of the songs feeling a little more bland. But Kanye does evolve his music with this record, having incredible flows, after incredibleKayne's follow-up 2nd studio album to TCD hit's really hard. Once again, the lyricism and instrumentals live up to (and sometimes exceed) my expectations. I feel as if the interludes are a tad bit harder to listen through with this project, along with some of the songs feeling a little more bland. But Kanye does evolve his music with this record, having incredible flows, after incredible flows. This album still holds up strong and is amazing.

    Favorite Track - Gold Digger
    Least Favorite Track - Skit #3
    Favorite Track - Gold Digger
    Least Favorite Track - Skit #3    … Expand
  3. somaontv
    Jul 18, 2023
    9
    One of my favorite Kanye albums to date i absolutely am in love with this album favorite track has to be roses
  4. jamesgraef
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    My favorite kanye album that he has published so far heard em say is such a great opener, then touch the sky and gold digger right after is just perfect. We major is probably top 1 kanye and so many great songs on this record i love it.
  5. Skeledon
    May 22, 2023
    10
    Even better than college dropout, an absolute classic, and a chill vibe album. Favorite song: Hey Mama
  6. Blonisco
    Jan 26, 2023
    8
    极为优秀的一张专辑，可以评为kanye前三的专辑，下面凑字数xnsjdbuebsjsnsjjsbshzuusbsbajaiwnsnsjussjjsjsjs
  7. hiphopplatinum
    Oct 2, 2022
    9
    the album is a great successor to The College Dropout and shows a massive improvement in his sampling he brings more rapping to the album and really succeeds in his skills
  8. SaulBadman
    May 5, 2022
    10
    Late Registration is Kanye's victory lap after his incredible debut 'The College Dropout'. Kanye managed to release two of the best hip-hop albums of all time in just two years. The track 'We Major' perfectly summarises the triumphant attitude put into this project.
  9. JamesJennings
    May 2, 2022
    10
    My favorite album of all time. Every track on this album is a hit. No skips, fantastic intro track, Emotional all throughout. Sequencing is fantastic. Instrumentals and orchestration are immaculate. Lyrics are on point. Features are iconic. Just perfect. PLEASE listen to this. You owe it to yourself.
  10. narolo
    Mar 30, 2022
    9
    goodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgoodgood
  11. garfield7081
    Mar 26, 2022
    8
    one of kanye's best albums, builds off of the strengths of The College Dropout with new orchestral themes

    best song: roses

    worst song: celebration
  12. maplegotchi
    Mar 19, 2022
    9
    After Kanye's debut album The College Dropout I think most figured he would never top it, a one time wonder if you will. However after listening to Late Registration it was clear that not only was he not a one time wonder, but he was still improving. Late Registration is everything I loved about The College Dropout 10x.
  13. Guts_147
    Mar 17, 2022
    10
    Every aspect of this album is so good, I've heard this album 20 times now and i started hearing kanye's songs like a month ago, if you like rap this is a MUST BE in your discography, one of kanye's best albums.
    and it has one of my personal favourite's songs of kanye: "We Major".
  14. Aimaki
    Feb 13, 2022
    10
    Late Registration is Ye's magnum opus. Weird to say that right? But it's true. No other work he's done has front to back amazingly produced, well written, and structured tracks. From beginning to the end of the album, we're shown Ye in rare form.
    Favorite Tracks: All (except one)
    Least Favorite: Celebration (not even bad, it's just not something I ALWAYS put on)
    I'm feeling a 10.
  15. Lucky_the1
    Nov 15, 2021
    9
    Another Kanye classic.
    After his critically acclaimed debut album Kanye surprises his public with an orchestral sounding opus with great production and great songs. Ironically, he neglect the lyrics in favor of a better sound.
    In this masterpiece he speaks about racial issues, how it feels to have made it and he talks about his past. The sound is better treated than the college dropout    Another Kanye classic.
    After his critically acclaimed debut album Kanye surprises his public with an orchestral sounding opus with great production and great songs. Ironically, he neglect the lyrics in favor of a better sound.

    In this masterpiece he speaks about racial issues, how it feels to have made it and he talks about his past. The sound is better treated than the college dropout one with an amazing orchestral production. Every song has it purpose and the whole sounds magnificient. He improves his sample ability giivng to the public a really hear plesaure. The skits are funny and fit perfectly with the school theme portrayted from the preveus album. Unfurtunatly he worked a little bit less on the lyrics despite having some of the great verse here. Overall it has higher highs and lower lows. Very enjoiable.    … Expand
  16. cdgui
    Aug 31, 2021
    10
    The best album of all time, all tracks are goat material, great flow, great hooks, great production, great beats, everything about this album is absolutely perfect
  17. Fra101
    Aug 30, 2021
    0
    It's such a boring album! That's all, just boring, nothing special. Sorry...
  18. DABBINGBOI
    Aug 16, 2021
    7
    As i've slowly been getting into rap, I thought i should check out Kanye West and i started with this project.
    I must say, it's a good first impression, my favourite tracks are; Touch the Sky (Great celebratory instrumental and lupe fiasco's great lyrical talent shine), Drive slow, Diamonds from Sierra Leone and gone.
    Everything else is good, with the exception of some tracks being a    As i've slowly been getting into rap, I thought i should check out Kanye West and i started with this project.
    I must say, it's a good first impression, my favourite tracks are; Touch the Sky (Great celebratory instrumental and lupe fiasco's great lyrical talent shine), Drive slow, Diamonds from Sierra Leone and gone.
    Everything else is good, with the exception of some tracks being a bit boring.    … Expand
  19. Wowisawow
    Apr 16, 2021
    8
    Pretty good. Includes some very High highs, but also some forgettable tracks personally. But it's a perfect sequel to The College Dropout
  20. Hendo250
    Mar 29, 2021
    9
    this album is a 9 this album is a 9 this album is a 9 this album is a 9 this album is a 9
  21. The-X-Territory
    Jan 24, 2021
    9
    Somehow surpassing it's predecessor, this album is awesome. Songs like Touch the Sky, Gold Digger, Roses, and the Diamonds from Sierra Leone Remix are more than enough to push album above The College Dropout.
  22. Anke51
    Jan 6, 2021
    10
    Not even coming close to a good album. To think that Kanye's biggest song Gold Digger is actually built on the back of Ray Charles' classic...
  23. Wrong_Opinions
    Dec 21, 2020
    9
    Fantastic album that makes me miss the Old Kanye. 9/10. Would definitely recommend.
  24. Zixon
    Dec 11, 2020
    10
    Some of the best production in Kanye's discography. I guess this is why people miss the old Kanye.
  25. bushyforest
    Oct 23, 2020
    0
    The album brings nothing special, just another attempt to say something original without the power to follow through with it.
  26. JohnSnow41188
    Oct 2, 2020
    0
    Unoriginal work, it feels like Kanye was trying to hard but the results did not pay out.
  27. anapopescu
    Sep 13, 2020
    0
    This album is carried by a lot of collaborations, borrowing from the greats (see Ray Charles) but in the end still fails to deliver.
  28. andyn823
    Jul 21, 2020
    7
    I like the production of this album, this proves that Kanye was (or is) a talented producer. The problem of this album that it's too long, some of the tracks seem out of place, some parts are not needed. His rap is okay. "Hey Mama", "Celebration" and "Heard Em Say" are beautiful songs. And this album is cohesive, it can be the most enjoyable album for me, of all of Kanye's discography.
  29. Atum_
    Jun 11, 2020
    8
    Only a 1,5 years after his debut, Kanye was back with a brand new album featuring one of his most popular tracks of all time: Gold Digger. This album is great, though not as good as his first one. This is very different from his first one, more orchestral and with more sting instruments. He still talks about what he usually does, however he is no longer the humble underdog that took theOnly a 1,5 years after his debut, Kanye was back with a brand new album featuring one of his most popular tracks of all time: Gold Digger. This album is great, though not as good as his first one. This is very different from his first one, more orchestral and with more sting instruments. He still talks about what he usually does, however he is no longer the humble underdog that took the world by storm the year prior. The standout tracks on this album is great, I love both the beginning and the end, however the middle part (My Way Home to Skit #2) feels kinda boring at times, and the beats are a bit boring, but the good really outshine the bad on this one.… Expand
  30. dropoutgolf
    Mar 13, 2020
    10
    I love this album. Ye' managed to perfectly follow up the College Dropout, and make an even better album. The production is great, the skits are just as funny if not even funnier than The College Dropout. Although the lows tend to be pretty dull, the high's are amazing, and unmatched by anything else Kanye's ever done. Classic!
    Favorite Tracks:
    Diamonds From Sierra Leone Roses Heard    I love this album. Ye' managed to perfectly follow up the College Dropout, and make an even better album. The production is great, the skits are just as funny if not even funnier than The College Dropout. Although the lows tend to be pretty dull, the high's are amazing, and unmatched by anything else Kanye's ever done. Classic!
    Favorite Tracks:
    Diamonds From Sierra Leone
    Roses
    Heard Em' Say
    Hey Mama
    We Major
    Addiction

    Least Favorite:
    Crack Music    … Expand
  31. A_Normal_Bush
    Mar 10, 2020
    9
    Late Registration is my favorite Kanye album. I listened to College Dropout, Graduation, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy before this album and absolutely loved all three of them. I was expecting to like this album as much as those 3, not less or more. Then, I listened to the album.
    It's a near perfect album, and while MBDTF may be more popular, I personally think this is his best    Late Registration is my favorite Kanye album. I listened to College Dropout, Graduation, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy before this album and absolutely loved all three of them. I was expecting to like this album as much as those 3, not less or more. Then, I listened to the album.
    It's a near perfect album, and while MBDTF may be more popular, I personally think this is his best album, even if just barely. It's near perfect.    … Expand
  32. ArkodeepSen
    Jan 23, 2020
    0
    Insant flop. This is the worst album of all time. Nothing can be worst than this. This is the **** piece of music
  33. TheRealZoko
    Jan 23, 2020
    0
    Warning: Kanye fans must stop giving low ratings to Music To Be Murdered By just to stop it surpassing My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy
  34. Sermanson2002
    Jan 23, 2020
    0
    Parece ser que ahora se vota con poca puntuacion los albumes que creemos que nos lo merercen.
    Gracias fans de Kanye
  35. GLang
    Jan 22, 2020
    10
    This is my second favorite Kanye album, and for good reason. This project takes a lot of what Ye does so well on College Dropout and improves on it. He continues to create melodic, ear pleasing hip hop music that can be enjoyed by the average listener or a hardcore rap/hip hop fan.
  36. theapple
    Jan 22, 2020
    0
    Average MC. Average production. Really an average album plain and simple...
  37. The3AcademySins
    Nov 8, 2019
    10
    Late Registration is a masterful followup to College Dropout, and much like The Empire Strike Back, is the dramatic second act of a brilliant trilogy. Heartfelt songs like "Hey Mama" really fill out the depth of who Kanye West is as a person and artist, and he absolutely bares his soul for all to see.
  38. Xellophone
    Oct 25, 2019
    6
    Feels like it's a continuation of the previous album, and it's honestly better, with more memorable tracks
  39. NewJeruse
    Oct 19, 2019
    0
    Independent Artist/Producer from Prince George's County Maryland. This Album is a classic.
  40. CyXato
    Sep 5, 2019
    10
    This is one of the best albums of all time, along with the majority of Kanye's work. The production is phenomenal as always, I just don't know how he is the most talented artist of all time but he is. Heard em say is such a relaxing nice song. Gold digger was a radio hit. Hey mama is beautiful. Drive Slow is head bobbing. Crack music is personally my least favorite but still an awesomeThis is one of the best albums of all time, along with the majority of Kanye's work. The production is phenomenal as always, I just don't know how he is the most talented artist of all time but he is. Heard em say is such a relaxing nice song. Gold digger was a radio hit. Hey mama is beautiful. Drive Slow is head bobbing. Crack music is personally my least favorite but still an awesome song. my way home and the skits were nice. I just simply love this album. Diamonds from Sierra Leonne and the remix. so much in this album is perfect.… Expand
  41. fifi3
    Jul 28, 2019
    8
    An album that is great in just about everything. The production is outstanding, with jazz and soul thoughtfully implemented, is consistent from start to finish, displays the charisma and confidence that was so prevalent on TCD, and has potent themes throughout. A classic album.
  42. Nickogo
    Jul 13, 2019
    6
    Gdyby tylko wyciągnąć z tego albumu 10-12 najlepszych piosenek spokojnie mógłby to być jeden z najlepszych albumów dekady. Niestety, Kanye postanowił wypchać album po brzegi nie bacząc na ogólne flow całości. Heard 'em Say, Touch the Sky i gold digger to piosenki, które już od początku nadają "Late Registration" dynamiki i rumieńców, niestety zaraz po nich pojawia się utwór Drive Slow,Gdyby tylko wyciągnąć z tego albumu 10-12 najlepszych piosenek spokojnie mógłby to być jeden z najlepszych albumów dekady. Niestety, Kanye postanowił wypchać album po brzegi nie bacząc na ogólne flow całości. Heard 'em Say, Touch the Sky i gold digger to piosenki, które już od początku nadają "Late Registration" dynamiki i rumieńców, niestety zaraz po nich pojawia się utwór Drive Slow, który w teorii być może brzmiał dobrze, ale na dłuższą metę jest męczący. Takich utworów, które postawione w newralgicznych punktach psuja odbiór albumu jest niestety więcej, "Celebration", "Bring me Down" nudzą, a "We Major" przez 7 minut zmierza donikąd i daje do zrozumienia, że tacy raperzy jak Nas do mikroświata Kanye Westa po prostu nie pasują. W brzmieniu albumu można wyczuć delikatnie poważniejsze, bardziej melancholijne podejście tak do spraw prywatnych (Roses) jak i społecznych (Diamonds from Sierra Leone) chociaż nie braknie też typowe humoru z poprzedniej płyty w postaci skitów czy utworu Gold Digger. Ogólnie "Late Registration" to album udany na którym można znaleźć sporo dobrych utworów, jednak z powodu nadmiaru i nierównej jakości materiału jest trochę ciężki do przełknięcia jako całość.… Expand
  43. C_dot
    May 22, 2019
    9
    Still to this day, Kanye's best lyrically written album. However, he plays it a bit safer than he has with all of his other albums, not experimenting as much with his production. That being sad, his production is still great (just not as great as his other projects), but his rapping skill and song writing keep this a excellent album.
  44. Aplucity
    Apr 16, 2019
    10
    Kanye West is a top name for rap and every one of these songs stands out on there on terms. It may not be dropout, but it's amazing in its own right.
  45. jakemoss2011
    Dec 12, 2018
    10
    amazing. heard em say is maybe the deepest rap song until kanye came to top it on later albums. touch the sky feels like cocaine and the production is unmatched. this is where we start to see a unique and profound artist
  46. AKthaBeast
    Mar 24, 2018
    9
    This album when it first came out was better than the debut album. This album has two of my favorite Kanye tracks in "Touch the Sky" and "Diamonds". The remix to "Diamonds" when it released was so impactful to what was going on during hip-hop and the Roc that it literally gave me the feels when Jay's verse came on.

    1. Wake Up Mr. West 2. Heard 'Em Say feat. Adam Levine - B+ 3. Touch    This album when it first came out was better than the debut album. This album has two of my favorite Kanye tracks in "Touch the Sky" and "Diamonds". The remix to "Diamonds" when it released was so impactful to what was going on during hip-hop and the Roc that it literally gave me the feels when Jay's verse came on.

    1. Wake Up Mr. West
    2. Heard 'Em Say feat. Adam Levine - B+
    3. Touch the Sky feat. Lupe Fiasco - A+
    4. Gold Digger feat. Jamie Foxx - B
    5. Skit #1
    6. Drive Slow feat. Paul Wall & GLC - A-
    7. My Way Home feat. Common - B+
    8. Crack Music feat. The Game - B+
    9. Roses - A-
    10. Bring Me Down feat. Brandy - A
    11. Addiction - A-
    12. Skit #2
    13. Diamonds from Sierra Leone feat. Jay-Z (Remix) - A+
    14. We Major feat. Nas & Really Doe - A
    15. Skit #3
    16. Hey Mama - A
    17. Celebration - A
    18. Skit #4
    19. Gone feat. Consequence & Cam'ron - A
    20. Diamonds from Sierra Leone - A+
    21. Late - B+    … Expand
  47. Recon97
    Oct 4, 2017
    10
    I didn't like Kanye West. The first album I ever heard from him was Yeezus, and that album was awful. But then a friend convinced me to listen to Late Registration. This is incredible. With so much soulful production, some of the most honest lyrics I've ever heard, Mr. West has scored my 15th favorite album of all time. 10/10
  48. FruitJuice
    Jul 17, 2017
    7
    good album............................................................................................................................................................
  49. Fib3r
    Jul 14, 2017
    10
    A great follow up to one of the greatest debuts albums ever, which is pretty impressive. With this album Kanye proved that he was not just a one hit wonder and that he was in fact here to stay.
  50. thehypebeast97
    Jan 27, 2017
    9
    An excellent follow-up to College Dropout and it pretty much follows the same concept of his debut. Solid album, another classic from Mr. West, best album of 2005
  51. victorcarter
    Nov 29, 2016
    9
    what an album... the variation on this project was just perfect. there were heartfelt songs like roses and hey mama, but there were also more upbeat songs like touch the sky and we major. the jazzy production was very fitting to the theme and vocals of this LP. my only complaint is that the skits were a little unnecessary. i liked the input of them, but they didn't seem to fit what waswhat an album... the variation on this project was just perfect. there were heartfelt songs like roses and hey mama, but there were also more upbeat songs like touch the sky and we major. the jazzy production was very fitting to the theme and vocals of this LP. my only complaint is that the skits were a little unnecessary. i liked the input of them, but they didn't seem to fit what was being said in the tracks before and after them. a really really enjoyable listen.
    fav tracks: touch the sky, gold digger, crack music, roses, bring me down, diamonds from sierra leone[remix w jay z], we major, gone    … Expand
  52. Revlewer
    Oct 28, 2016
    9
    This album embodies Ye's incredible ability to fuse hip-hop ballads with foot-tappers and head-nodders. Tracks like "Gone" and "Touch the Sky" make you want to learn all the words and forget where you are. They are nicely contrasted by "Addiction" and "Roses", which still have engrossing beats but lyrics that reflect his side that contradicts the impression of an egotistic pseudo-manic.This album embodies Ye's incredible ability to fuse hip-hop ballads with foot-tappers and head-nodders. Tracks like "Gone" and "Touch the Sky" make you want to learn all the words and forget where you are. They are nicely contrasted by "Addiction" and "Roses", which still have engrossing beats but lyrics that reflect his side that contradicts the impression of an egotistic pseudo-manic. Overlaid by skits that show the hardship of living in poverty, partially due to the color of one's skin, the album flows nicely, cementing Ye's career as a producer and an intense lyricist. This is an album that will be remembered for decades to come.… Expand
  53. lisiak
    Jan 8, 2016
    8
    'Late Registration' by Kanye West is great album. My favourite tracks: 'Drive Slow', 'Gold Digger', and absolutely amazing 'Diamonds From Sierra Leone'.
  54. Bringman
    Jan 5, 2016
    6
    The album isn't bad, it has the power of a real rap album, but not all the songs are good. The best songs are surely "Heard 'Em Say", a perfect example of melodic rap, and "Gold Digger", maybe one of the best rap songs ever, the flow and the vocal performance of Jamie Foxx are unique. but songs like "Diamonds from Sierra Leone" and "Crack Music" are not too much good, and a little boring.The album isn't bad, it has the power of a real rap album, but not all the songs are good. The best songs are surely "Heard 'Em Say", a perfect example of melodic rap, and "Gold Digger", maybe one of the best rap songs ever, the flow and the vocal performance of Jamie Foxx are unique. but songs like "Diamonds from Sierra Leone" and "Crack Music" are not too much good, and a little boring. The album has a few of masterpieces and a lot of boring rap songs, but generally it's a medium/good album… Expand
  55. Urbanlistener
    Apr 28, 2015
    10
    A really great second album from Kanye who shows he can be consistent in his work, staying true to his ambitions while refreshing a bit his style. Like the previous one, a sharp production from the guy who brought you most of the beats on Jay-Z's Blueprint and a Chicago sound sure to please any fan of Chicago's hip-hop.
  56. RapGameWillyWon
    Apr 12, 2015
    10
    WAKE UP MR. WEST!! The second album of Kanye's career proves to be another masterpiece. Never one to overuse a style, West noticed almost instantly after College Dropout that his sped-up soul sample was starting to become an industry cliche, so he shook it up a little. This resulting album's instrumentation is still pretty ahead of it's time. West cleverly uses the other side of theWAKE UP MR. WEST!! The second album of Kanye's career proves to be another masterpiece. Never one to overuse a style, West noticed almost instantly after College Dropout that his sped-up soul sample was starting to become an industry cliche, so he shook it up a little. This resulting album's instrumentation is still pretty ahead of it's time. West cleverly uses the other side of the 60s/70s songs he so loves to give them pop appeal. For example, the blaring horns on "Touch the Sky", the daunting keys on "Drive Slow" and Jamie Foxx's humorous interpretation of a random Ray Charles line on "Gold Digger." He also mixes the type of dramatic orchestral instrumentation usually found in movie soundtracks, courtesy of Jon Brion. Lyrically, the album doesn't showcase West's ability any more than "College Dropout" he can still tell a good story and has plenty of clever, if not a little immature, punchlines ("If you're a stripper named Porsche and you get tips from many men, then your fat friend her nickname is Mini-Van.") That type of self-aware ego is common on this album, with several skits featuring Kanye in a penniless fraternity called "Phi-broke." There's still time for serious messages however, creating goosebumps worthy songs in "My Way Home", where Common laments over a Gil Scott-Heron sample, "Crack Music", a stark look at hip-hop's place in white America, "Roses", which looks at his grandmother's hospital stay and the medical industry as a whole and a "Diamonds from Sierra Leone" Remix that more directly tackles the title. This is the album that showcases Kanye's star quality and it's a hard one to dislike, no matter how obnoxious he can get.… Expand
  57. keve16
    Mar 22, 2015
    8
    8.5/10................................................................................................................................................
  58. His-Dudeness
    Mar 2, 2015
    10
    Ten years on Late Registration has aged brilliantly compared to Kanye West's other critically acclaimed work. The production is still the best Kanye contribution to date, and is arguably one of the finest to ever in it's genre. The guest verses are unconventional, especially at the time, yet they work in perfect harmony with Mr West. Such crisp production and light on the ear rhymes areTen years on Late Registration has aged brilliantly compared to Kanye West's other critically acclaimed work. The production is still the best Kanye contribution to date, and is arguably one of the finest to ever in it's genre. The guest verses are unconventional, especially at the time, yet they work in perfect harmony with Mr West. Such crisp production and light on the ear rhymes are what continue to make Late Registration a timeless classic.… Expand
  59. ben_zo77
    Feb 4, 2014
    9
    This album is a near-perfect mix of braggadocio, raw emotion, and socially conscious lyrics. Also, the features work beautifully and contribute to the impact of this album. There's 2 or 3 songs that could have been left out, but Late Registration is without a doubt an elite LP. ~ 8.5/10

    Best track: "Touch The Sky" Other notable tracks: "Gold Digger", "Crack Music", "Roses", "We Major",    This album is a near-perfect mix of braggadocio, raw emotion, and socially conscious lyrics. Also, the features work beautifully and contribute to the impact of this album. There's 2 or 3 songs that could have been left out, but Late Registration is without a doubt an elite LP. ~ 8.5/10

    Best track: "Touch The Sky"
    Other notable tracks: "Gold Digger", "Crack Music", "Roses", "We Major", "Hey Mama", & "Diamonds From Sierra Leone" (remix and original)    … Expand
  60. Vampire25
    Nov 11, 2013
    9
    Late Registration is nothing short of ambitious, self-assured, and an instant mile-stone. Mr. West was no victim to the sophomore slump, pushing himself even further to stardom with each hit. Every track holds something distinct and worthwhile, while also showing off Kanye as the great MC he is. The production is bombastic in this record, sometimes going very minimal as well, like he doesLate Registration is nothing short of ambitious, self-assured, and an instant mile-stone. Mr. West was no victim to the sophomore slump, pushing himself even further to stardom with each hit. Every track holds something distinct and worthwhile, while also showing off Kanye as the great MC he is. The production is bombastic in this record, sometimes going very minimal as well, like he does in "Drive Slow".

    All In All, Late Registration is a brilliant follow up to "College Dropout" A-    … Expand
  61. sammanning1
    Oct 11, 2013
    10
    Late Reg is Kanye's greatest work.
    Best songs:
    Heard Em Say
    Touch the Sky
    Drive Slow
    Roses
    Addiction
    We Major
    Hey Mama
    GONE
    Diamonds from Sierra Leone
    But the whole album is incredible.
  62. Osiir
    Jun 18, 2013
    10
    From one of rap's best debuts to one of it's greatest follow-ups, not to mention, one of the best albums to ever spawn from the genre. Stylistically and sonically a step-up from it's predecessor, undoubtedly from the help of "Jon Brion on the keys". "Touch The Sky", "Celebration", "We Major", "Gone", an album all about showing off and livin' it up, in all it's glory and in all it's folly,From one of rap's best debuts to one of it's greatest follow-ups, not to mention, one of the best albums to ever spawn from the genre. Stylistically and sonically a step-up from it's predecessor, undoubtedly from the help of "Jon Brion on the keys". "Touch The Sky", "Celebration", "We Major", "Gone", an album all about showing off and livin' it up, in all it's glory and in all it's folly, it's jealously and it's unintended victims, "Gold Digger", "Addiction", "Bring Me Down", "Diamonds From Sierra Leone". From "putting those hazard lights on" picking up girls with "Drive Slow", to realizing and understanding that "Nothing lasts forever" and even though "it hurts", that "it may be the only way" on the street-poet-spilling-his-heart "Heard Em Say", to the soft, sweet, love-filled ode to his Mom "Hey Mama", this album found me really appreciating all the tracks not just for them in themselves, but what they added to the whole. Classic Album. 9.5/10… Expand
  63. Ricko
    Nov 23, 2012
    8
    Another top album from Mr West, one of the few hip hop/rap artists where I can listen to an entire album. This has got some great singles and has the fantastic "Gold digger". Production is flawless, only thing that I don't like are the "skit" tracks which ruin the flow of the record for me. If your not a fan of the genre (and in general, I'm not) this guy is still worth checking out.Another top album from Mr West, one of the few hip hop/rap artists where I can listen to an entire album. This has got some great singles and has the fantastic "Gold digger". Production is flawless, only thing that I don't like are the "skit" tracks which ruin the flow of the record for me. If your not a fan of the genre (and in general, I'm not) this guy is still worth checking out. Really find myself enjoying his records.… Expand
  64. cr1995
    Nov 14, 2012
    9
    Kanye established his skill in College Dropout, but Late Registration is when he truly shines. The beats are expanded to new horizons and his lyrics are just as good. He does a great job of sampling songs and there's several guest appearances that amplify his own ability as well. Great album, I really do believe it's an instant classic. I think about it this way: Kanye always has thatKanye established his skill in College Dropout, but Late Registration is when he truly shines. The beats are expanded to new horizons and his lyrics are just as good. He does a great job of sampling songs and there's several guest appearances that amplify his own ability as well. Great album, I really do believe it's an instant classic. I think about it this way: Kanye always has that arrogant "I'm one of the greatest ever" kind of attitute, but after I listened to all of Late Registration, I caught myself starting to think that he may not be completely wrong. Favorites: Heard Em' Say, Gold Digger, Gone. Least Favorite: Bring Me Down.… Expand
  65. KeithG
    Apr 25, 2012
    3
    West attempted to polish his style in the follow-up to College Dropout and lost all of the charm that made his debut interesting in the first place. Outside of the introduction of Lupe Fiasco on "Touch the Sky", there isn't much on this album worth listening to.
  66. CalR
    Feb 20, 2012
    6
    Meh...I never quite connected with this album, sure the singles from this were great stompers but overall it all feels like an extension of the first album and without the impact due to the massive influx of stars invading his work.
  67. LeftyRightyGuy
    Oct 17, 2011
    10
    Wake up Mr. West cause you gave a an incredible album to enjoy for days to come. The amount of effort that was put into this album shines in the best tracks of the LP.
    Best Tracks:
    Heard 'Em Say (Feat. Adam Levine)
    Gold Digger (Feat. Jamie Foxx)
    Hey Mama
    Drive Slow (Feat. Paul Wall & GLC)
    We Major (Feat Nas & Really Doe)
    Diamonds From Sierra Leone (Feat Jay-Z)
    And all the Skits.
  68. j30
    Sep 28, 2011
    9
    Really an excellent album. It gives me hope in Hip-Hop again. This album builds off it's predecessor, like the rest of his albums that follows (with an exception of 808's and Heartbreak).
  69. Mcritic19
    Aug 22, 2011
    10
    With this album Kanye made it known that he'll be around for a while. Great album my favorite from mr. West. Kanye West showed his lyricall greatness, his **** expressed his feelings all on one album.
  70. Chrislake94
    Jul 19, 2011
    10
    This Album is brilliant, influential and has to be one of the best Albums of 2005 and also of all time. I thought it would be impossible for him to do an Album which is either better than College Dropout or on same level.
  71. thatguynamed20r
    Jun 12, 2011
    9
    Terrific album, not perfect, but geniunely enjoyable, some tracks need work, but the rest works. BEST SONG ON THIS TRACK IS: TOUCH THE SKY FT. LUPE FIASCO. Kanye knows how to please, and does with this album.
  72. lovemusic
    May 8, 2011
    10
    THIS IS THE BEST ALBUM OF THE DECADE. This album was amazing i loved every song on this album. its my favorite kanye west album. its perfect. it deserves 5 stars. this album shows people how talented kanye west is. great album!!!!!!!! 10/10 pure genius
  73. mattnog11
    Nov 9, 2010
    10
    absolutely amazing its in my top fave albums i love it to death. not my favorite kanye album but it is amazing Diamonds From Sierra Leon is one of my favorite songs i could listen to that for years and years doesnt get old. very amazing one of the best raps ever
  74. jaym
    Sep 4, 2009
    10
    C L A S S I C
  75. pepef
    Apr 16, 2008
    10
    a classic!
  76. hiphoplover
    Mar 26, 2008
    9
    Until i heard "stronger", i never really liked Kanye West's music,but i herd stronger and i loved it. Plus my mate recommended Late Registration to me so i asked for it for my birthday. i got it and listened to it, and i thought it was brilliant! Not exactly what id call proper Hip-Hop, but still a pretty good album! I can listen to every track all the way through without getting Until i heard "stronger", i never really liked Kanye West's music,but i herd stronger and i loved it. Plus my mate recommended Late Registration to me so i asked for it for my birthday. i got it and listened to it, and i thought it was brilliant! Not exactly what id call proper Hip-Hop, but still a pretty good album! I can listen to every track all the way through without getting bored of it (except for "late," which is why the album gets a 9) and every track is on my ipod! (which is rare coz normally no more than 5 songs on average from an album make it onto your ipod, and most of the time its the albums singles...) Definitely fits into the top 10 albums i own. Shame some people still don't like it, but i suppose everyone has a different taste in music. anyways still a decent album in my opinion which i recommend to anyone...… Expand
  77. JimbrowskiI.
    Nov 20, 2007
    9
    What is the purpose of skits on rap albums again? Illmatic doesn't have single skit, which is probably why it's so short, but it's also why I love it so much (I've noticed that also with many rap artists in the Eighties, I like them to). Anyways, minus the skits, fantastic rap album. I was glad Graduation didn't have any skits.
  78. irvinc
    Jul 26, 2007
    10
    late registration is brilliant, a superb triumph of hard labor of 'Ye and Jon Brion's behalf
  79. GregB
    Jun 25, 2007
    10
    The production alone makes this the best album of 2005. Definitely better than College Dropout, and a lot more fun. Can't wait for Graduation!
  80. HeyManManManMan
    Jun 24, 2007
    9
    I do agree this album is musically superior to The College Dropout. But there are still too many filler skits taking up time, and some lyrics (like on Roses) are lacking. Still top notch though. Such a creative force.
  81. pepef
    May 20, 2007
    10
    a classic!
  82. CarlyQ
    Apr 2, 2007
    8
    Not worthy of Rolling stones extremely rare 5 star rating but a very good album with great production. His rhymes are not worthy of a classic rating.
  83. DanA
    Dec 5, 2006
    10
    Musically this album has far better production than The College Dropout. But some of the lyrics are hardly passable on some tracks. But this is still a near perfect album. Kanye is easily the best artist of the hip hop genre today.
  84. TyeN.
    Aug 13, 2006
    10
    This album is my second favorite of 2005. Who would have thought that getting Jon Brion to produce would turn out to be such a great move? I love Jon Brion and Kanye, but it just didn't seem like a good match. That is, until I heard it. The production is amazing, and the album is filled with wonderful songs. My favorites are "Gone", "Diamonds (From Sierra Leone)", "Hey Mama", "Crack This album is my second favorite of 2005. Who would have thought that getting Jon Brion to produce would turn out to be such a great move? I love Jon Brion and Kanye, but it just didn't seem like a good match. That is, until I heard it. The production is amazing, and the album is filled with wonderful songs. My favorites are "Gone", "Diamonds (From Sierra Leone)", "Hey Mama", "Crack Music", "Addiction", "Heard 'Em Say", "Roses", and "Touch The Sky". The entire album is amazing though. Kanye West has become one of the few artist who's albums I always look forward to. I hope the rumors are true that he and Chris Martin did a song together for his third album...that would be amazing.… Expand
  85. SeanP
    Jul 30, 2006
    10
    Excellent album, and even though it's great artistically and lyrically, and all that high stuff, what puts this album over into "classic" is how purely ENJOYABLE it is. It's a cd i don't just have to listen to with headphones and all my close attention, but also one i can pop into my car. As good as College Dropout was, and after two great albums, kanye's rep should be Excellent album, and even though it's great artistically and lyrically, and all that high stuff, what puts this album over into "classic" is how purely ENJOYABLE it is. It's a cd i don't just have to listen to with headphones and all my close attention, but also one i can pop into my car. As good as College Dropout was, and after two great albums, kanye's rep should be established for now, regardless of his "ego". ALSO, i don't know why, but my favorite song on the album is Gone, a track which doesnt seem to get much attention. I personally think that song is genius, especially production-wise. Anyone else think Gone is one of the best songs?… Expand
  86. JeremyE
    Apr 27, 2006
    10
    This album is amazing!!!!! There isn't even one bad song! Best Hip-hop album ever made. You can tell he put a lot of work into his songs
  87. JustinW
    Apr 8, 2006
    8
    Kanye is back with a bang. This is a satisfying album, and a good follow-up to College Dropout. Most of the songs are written well. The only down point I can think of is that West's giant ego is evident in a few songs.
  88. LucaA
    Apr 2, 2006
    10
    Kanye West is my life.Late Registration is the best album of the hystory.From Italy
  89. Anon-ymous
    Mar 19, 2006
    10
    This albums non hits are not really that good but the hits are superb. I would recommend this to friends (if I had any) !
  90. PilotJ
    Mar 7, 2006
    4
    Bad poetry and beats that couldn't be any less interesting if they had been produced by a high school kid playing with a copy of fruityloops. Over-rated to the point that I find myself questiong my own sanity every time I read a good review of it. 2 points for the marketing department that continues to fool kids into thinking such boring ryhmes are profound biblical listening and 2 Bad poetry and beats that couldn't be any less interesting if they had been produced by a high school kid playing with a copy of fruityloops. Over-rated to the point that I find myself questiong my own sanity every time I read a good review of it. 2 points for the marketing department that continues to fool kids into thinking such boring ryhmes are profound biblical listening and 2 points because for such an over-hyped, bubble-gum-in-disguise waste of plastic - it sure does get the ladies dancing.… Expand
  91. RaymondU
    Feb 13, 2006
    10
    Another classic by kanye west. All his songs always have a meaning deep inside. I couldn't give it less than a 10.
  92. KyleighH
    Feb 11, 2006
    10
    This is a very good album. Kanye West does absolutely excellent with this album. I love the songs "Gold Digger" and "Heard 'Em Say". They are both really, really, extremely good songs. Congrats to Kanye West at the Grammys. You go, Kanye! Keep on making the music that we all love!
  93. JDWilliams
    Jan 25, 2006
    10
    A RAP CLASSIC. im not a rap fan at all but i loved college dropout. but late registration is a art rap album that makes his debut sound like a demo sometimes. its a classic and goes good with a rock fan(like me) CD collection. BUT IT
  94. TylerH
    Jan 22, 2006
    9
    Nice now that you showed us you can rap you can go back to producing and bring hip hop out of this "southern era" before i kill myself.
  95. CabeM
    Jan 20, 2006
    7
    For the most part it's a good album until you get to Crack Music. What the hell is that it's the worst song i've ever heard in my life. This should not be a Universal Acclaim.
  96. johna
    Jan 11, 2006
    10
    its fuckin awsume
  97. marqusn
    Jan 11, 2006
    10
    This album has the edge of Eminem, the hugeness of U2, and the soul of Ray Charles. The best track is either Roses, or Celebration, or Hey Mama. They're out of this world. It's cool to note how he has moved from being an inferior to the big-guns like Jay-z and 50 cent, to now; where he should become the driving force in the industry. No matter what people say, you can't This album has the edge of Eminem, the hugeness of U2, and the soul of Ray Charles. The best track is either Roses, or Celebration, or Hey Mama. They're out of this world. It's cool to note how he has moved from being an inferior to the big-guns like Jay-z and 50 cent, to now; where he should become the driving force in the industry. No matter what people say, you can't deny that rap is promoting gun culture. My evidence being that pretty much every 50 cent song has a gunshot in it. Kanye speaks with positivity, even his arrogance is purely forward thinking. Noel Gallagher said that "every figure in the current hip-hop scene is an idiot, bar none." I agreed with him, until West came along. This CD takes me back to the days of Public Enemy and Run DMC, where rap actually meant something- but it's superior to that. He's as radical, but he has the talent to outshine any of his peers. His comments about Bush on NBC will be remembered fondly in the future, whether the corperations like it or not. College Dropout was a breath of fresh air, in the same way Oasis' Definately Maybe was. Late registration is, in essence, his Morning glory.… Expand
  98. PepaS
    Jan 10, 2006
    6
    Not nearly as good as the college dropout
  99. MBerner
    Jan 9, 2006
    10
    "10" doesn't even put into perspective the quality of the album...The best album of the year and one of the best over the past decade in any genre...A true album that you can pop in the cd player and just let it play through without having to keep hitting skip after every other song...The best production possibly ever on a hip-hop cd and the lyrical content isn't far "10" doesn't even put into perspective the quality of the album...The best album of the year and one of the best over the past decade in any genre...A true album that you can pop in the cd player and just let it play through without having to keep hitting skip after every other song...The best production possibly ever on a hip-hop cd and the lyrical content isn't far behind...The first time i heard it i almost couldn't believe this music was created for rap because it almost sounds like a piece of classical music...Each song flows from one to the next but has its own identity as well as they each touch on a different topic...The only small piece i didn't feel on this album i did on College Dropout was the pure originality as this seemed more carefully crafted and in some ways almost too good if that's possible...Nevertheless definitly deserves all the hype and a grammy for album of the year!!! A piece of work that you will be able to play 20 years from now and still appreciate the music...Cant wait for "Graduation" and the song with John Mayer "Bittersweet"...A true gift of art that i will cherish for ever...God Bless… Expand
  100. LeifS
    Jan 8, 2006
    9
    I am not a big fan of rap music, but i do like this album. I have a lot of respect for Kanye West. This album does not beat college dropout, but it is very close.
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Awards & Rankings

18
#18 Best Album of 2005
4
#4 Most Discussed Album of 2005
6
#6 Most Shared Album of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
85

Universal acclaim - based on 31 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 31
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 31
  3. Negative: 0 out of 31
  1. Slant Magazine
    Feb 17, 2011
    70
    Late Registration's salvation (and, undoubtedly, Kanye's own) are when it basks in the sunshine after the rain.
    Read full review
  2. Village Voice
    Jan 3, 2011
    90
    Each of these songs offers more exquisite details than I could earmark in twice this space, many of them literary, which the English prof's dropout son rightly claims as his calling. But secret brilliance is more likely to emerge from the sops to his hip-hop base.
    Read full review
  3. Amazon.com
    90
    Late Registration can't replicate the novelty of last year's College Dropout, but otherwise, this is an impressively more mature and labored-over album.
    Read full review
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