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. TimW001
    Feb 14, 2016
    9
    I still frequently listen to this album. A complete classic that I would recommend for any hip-hop fan. The album is the sound of success. 'Life is good' put through speakers.
  2. ben_zo77
    Feb 4, 2014
    9
    Graduation is a more mainstream 808s and Heartbreak. It has a distinct electronic sound that complements the introspective, personal lyrics. Kanye opens up in Graduation in brash and emotional ways. 8.7/10

    Best track: "Can't Tell Me Nothing"
    Other tracks that stand out: "Barry Bonds", "Everything I Am", "The Glory", "Homecoming", and "Big Brother"
  3. glasses1
    Nov 1, 2013
    9
    I have always appreciated this album, since it was very positive with a surprising stay in school type of message. Much less depraved than other rap releases and is never boring with clever rhymes and cool beats. My favorite from Kanye. Add it to your collection
  4. AquaCulina
    May 3, 2014
    9
    This is Kanye's most poppy album. And it might even be his weakest. Which really doesn't say to much, considering his incredibly consistent discography.

    It's also very interesting that this album features 2 of Kanye's best songs ('Can't Tell Me Nothing' & 'Flashing Lights [feat. Dwele]), 2 of his worst songs (Barry Bonds [feat. Lil Wayne] & Drunk And Hot Girls [feat. Mos Def]) and    This is Kanye's most poppy album. And it might even be his weakest. Which really doesn't say to much, considering his incredibly consistent discography.

    It's also very interesting that this album features 2 of Kanye's best songs ('Can't Tell Me Nothing' & 'Flashing Lights [feat. Dwele]), 2 of his worst songs (Barry Bonds [feat. Lil Wayne] & Drunk And Hot Girls [feat. Mos Def]) and probably also his most commercially successful song (Stronger).

    This makes for an album with incredible highs, but two disappointing lows. In the end the album still impresses though, because the Album managed to accomplish, what Kanye had in vision. Mixing his soulful production with electronic synths and heavy bass to create Kanye's "stadium status".    … Expand
  5. emlugo123
    Mar 10, 2015
    9
    You have to appreciate the production quality of this album. This album just sounds like quality. A couple of tracks are OK but Glory, Flashing Lights, Wonder, and Homecoming is some of the best hip-hip I've heard in a long time.
  6. emlugo007
    Mar 10, 2015
    9
    Best Kanye album without a doubt.

    I wasn't a huge fan of Kanye when he came out, but I was pleasantly surprised at how great this album was. One of the few albums where I can listen to every track.
  7. homer4president
    Mar 10, 2015
    9
    This is an incredible album. It really exemplifies Kanye's style. He may not be some extremely skilled and devoted lyricist like classics such as Nas and KRS-ONE, but he has a very individual sound that has gotten him extremely far.
  8. Urbanlistener
    Apr 28, 2015
    9
    Hit after hit, West delivers another awesome album with more than a few instant classic songs like Stronger and Good life. Maybe a bit more pop than his previous ones, Graduation is still a true hip-hop piece of art.
  9. lisiak
    Jan 6, 2016
    9
    I prefer this album than 'CD', or 'LR', but 'MBDTF', and 'YEEZUS' are better ( because 10/10 :D ) 'Can't tell me nothing', or 'Stronger' are absolutely perefect! Rest of the album is still great. 9/10
  10. fifi3
    Jul 28, 2019
    9
    A timeless classic that aged very well since it was ahead of its time. The range of music implemented (house, indie, pop, hip hop, electro, etc) was done fabulously. It's a great mix of party music and deeper cuts, featuring a very meaningful and inspiring theme. The jaw dropping production, versatility and theme of this project make it one of the better albums of the century, even withA timeless classic that aged very well since it was ahead of its time. The range of music implemented (house, indie, pop, hip hop, electro, etc) was done fabulously. It's a great mix of party music and deeper cuts, featuring a very meaningful and inspiring theme. The jaw dropping production, versatility and theme of this project make it one of the better albums of the century, even with two skippables (Barry Bonds, Drunk and Hot Girls).… Expand
  11. Stax93
    Jun 2, 2018
    9
    I always skip "Drunk and Hot Girls" but apart from that song, I love the album. I wouldn't call it a classical but it still a really awesome album.
  12. weeb122
    Dec 30, 2020
    9
    Great album but a slightly weaker 2nd half.

    Favourite Songs: Stronger, Good Morning, Good Life, Big Brother.

    Least Favourite Songs: Drunk And Hot Girls, Barry Bonds.
  13. Wowisawow
    Apr 16, 2021
    9
    This album is a personal favourite from Ye's discography for me. I love almost every song on here and even the worst song (Drunk and Hot Girls) I don't hate it that much.
  14. 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
  15. BeanisBags
    Feb 3, 2022
    9
    Graduation is a fantastic anthemic rap album with a lot of character and some of the best hits of the 2000’s. There are a few duds here, but it’s an album you’ll want to listen to at a party or with your friends.
  16. garfield7081
    Mar 25, 2022
    9
    a consistently great collection of music that deems itself worthy of being kanye's bestselling album

    best song: homecoming

    worst song: barry bonds
  17. SaulBadman
    May 5, 2022
    9
    Graduation is Kanye's effort to create an album fit for a stadium. He achieves that goal. Using electronic/pop type beats he is able to create timeless rap anthems. The only weak tracks on this album are Barry Bonds and Drunk And Hot Girls. While not as strong as his first two albums, Graduation is an incredible album, which innovated in the genre.
  18. Clutch22
    May 20, 2023
    9
    This album is an unforgettable masterpiece, that will be remembered forever. It shows Ye 's full artistic display, making it his best album. Besides one or two of tracks it as no skips. If perfection ever existed this would be the closest to it.
    Looking back to it at 2023 I come to reviset pretty much all tracks on regular basis.
  19. carlos_Lopez8
    Mar 23, 2023
    9
    One of the best produced albums OAT, its musically astonishing, and its a great project by Kanye, and it has aged pretty well
  20. DelkoChateau
    Aug 28, 2023
    9
    Perfect in every way except one. Barry Bonds is probably one of the worst Kanye songs I've ever heard, repetitive flows, a mediocre Lil Wayne verse, and just boring production. Other than that, there is almost nothing that can stand up to this album. Nearly perfect.
  21. TrellT.
    Dec 6, 2007
    8
    It could've been better; but still quailty.
  22. 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.
  23. 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!
  24. 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
  25. 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
  26. 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.
  27. 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.
  28. 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
  29. 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
  30. 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
  31. 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.
  32. 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.
  33. KyleZ.
    Sep 11, 2007
    8
    Kanye as a producer is the greatest out there. As a rapper, he is still better than most
  34. JasonH.
    Sep 11, 2007
    8
    Graduation is maybe Kanyes best cd
  35. 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
  36. 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.
  37. 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.
  38. 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
  39. 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.
  40. Vampire25
    Nov 9, 2013
    8
    This might be Kanye's weakest album, but even his weakest is still a damn fine hip hop record. He seems to discuss & be very in-tune with his success in this record, whereas his previous records seem to tackle larger topics and controversies, but that doesn't deter Kanye from making fantastic, clean productions. "Champion" is a slick, catchy track ranks among his best songs. As a whole,This might be Kanye's weakest album, but even his weakest is still a damn fine hip hop record. He seems to discuss & be very in-tune with his success in this record, whereas his previous records seem to tackle larger topics and controversies, but that doesn't deter Kanye from making fantastic, clean productions. "Champion" is a slick, catchy track ranks among his best songs. As a whole, some tracks seem a little scattered and rushed, making the whole experienced seem a tad jumbled, but each track holds it's own and Kanye has some of his best rhymes in this album.

    All In All, Graduation ends his "College" trilogy very electro, very catchy, and very memorable. He's yet to make a bad record. B+    … Expand
  41. LoudnObnoxious
    Jun 24, 2011
    8
    Graduation takes Mr. West in a bit more of a commercial direction than his past two albums, but that is by no means a bad thing. While not as hard hitting as both Late Registration and College Dropout, Graduation is still a great album because it show Kanye's more goofy and fun side while still staying grounded with tracks like Everything I Am and Big Brother. Graduation is a foray awayGraduation takes Mr. West in a bit more of a commercial direction than his past two albums, but that is by no means a bad thing. While not as hard hitting as both Late Registration and College Dropout, Graduation is still a great album because it show Kanye's more goofy and fun side while still staying grounded with tracks like Everything I Am and Big Brother. Graduation is a foray away from Kanye's usual style, but don't crucify him for it, instead embrace it.… Expand
  42. j30
    Sep 28, 2011
    8
    A clunky album, but some of his best songs belong to this album. To say it's a complete failure, is not true. He's one of Hip-Hop's greatest talents.
  43. LeftyRightyGuy
    Oct 21, 2011
    8
    A step down from "Late Registration," but that's pretty hard not to top that album. He gives a more mainstream direction that broadens his legacy.
    Best Track's
    "Champion"
    "Stronger"
    "Can't Tell Me Nothing"
    "Good Life"
    "Homecoming"
  44. BrandonHamm
    Apr 3, 2012
    8
    As he always does, Kanye completely switched his style up for this album, going for a more electro-tinged sound, although this is often over-emphasized with this album; there are plenty of throwback Kanye joints on here (the soulful "Everything I Am" and "The Glory", the Chris Martin-assisted "Homecoming" and the well-produced but lyrically-lacking "Barry Bonds" are prime examples). KanyeAs he always does, Kanye completely switched his style up for this album, going for a more electro-tinged sound, although this is often over-emphasized with this album; there are plenty of throwback Kanye joints on here (the soulful "Everything I Am" and "The Glory", the Chris Martin-assisted "Homecoming" and the well-produced but lyrically-lacking "Barry Bonds" are prime examples). Kanye went for a more stadium-ready sound on this album, and as is, songs like the brilliant "I Wonder" and his biggest hit to date, "Stronger", are as granidose and epic as you will ever hear from 'Ye. The only area where this album is lacking is in lyricism, which was weaker as compared to his previous 2 albums (it doesn't help that Kanye wasn't already an elite MC). Overall, a very good album, but not to the caliber of his first 2 albums.… Expand
  45. Swishalicious29
    Jun 11, 2013
    8
    My 3rd favorite Kanye West album. It has some of this best songs ever, (Can't Tell Me Nothin, Big Brother, Flashing Lights). The production is classic Kanye. Barry Bonds and Drunk and Hot Girls I didn't really like, as they feel like filler material. With that being said, if you are a Kanye West fan, you have no reason to not listen to this album.
  46. comebackkid12
    Dec 8, 2014
    8
    Much faster than his first two records "The College Dropout" and "Late Registration," "Graduation" is a much faster-paced, slimmer version of thumping choruses and witty lines from a man that seemed hell-bent on making this album the prime example of arena music. The journey you embark on throughout these sharp, punchy 51 minutes is an epic and crazy one, while Mr. West has effectivelyMuch faster than his first two records "The College Dropout" and "Late Registration," "Graduation" is a much faster-paced, slimmer version of thumping choruses and witty lines from a man that seemed hell-bent on making this album the prime example of arena music. The journey you embark on throughout these sharp, punchy 51 minutes is an epic and crazy one, while Mr. West has effectively stated that he remains the king of the new hip-hop. Standout tracks for me would have to be the ironically dark "Flashing Lights" and chest-thumping "The Glory."… Expand
  47. SergioV
    Jun 26, 2016
    8
    83/100. I really like this album, and it has grown on me immensely through the years. There are so many good tracks on this one, and to highlight the best, I'd say: "Good Morning", "Champion", "Stronger", "I Wonder", "Can't Tell Me Nothing", "Barry Bonds", "Flashing Lights", "Everything I Am", "The Glory" and "Homecoming".
  48. The3AcademySins
    Nov 8, 2019
    8
    The finale of Kanye's college trilogy is the weakest entry in the series, but it is still a banger. It lacks the cohesion the first two albums had, but it has some of the best songs Kanye has ever written. Well worth a listen, and doubly rewarding to listen to right after College Dropout and Late Registration.
  49. djdenzel777
    Mar 30, 2017
    8
    Overall a strong album, with a few forgettable tracks. One of Kanye's more radio friendly albums. Definitely not his best worth, but surely worth a listen.
  50. Fib3r
    Jul 14, 2017
    8
    With Graduation kanye tried out a more electronic EDM sound and boy did it pay off. Almost every track stands out except for a few in the middle of the album. A great ending to the school themed trilogy, even though its probably the weakest in the trilogy (which almost hurts to say as i still love it so).
  51. MacsMusic
    Jun 19, 2018
    8
    Kanye West gets a ridiculous amount of praise, and lots of Grammys to prove that lots of people really like his stuff. I don't idolize Kanye, and actually dislike lots of his stuff, but I really like the music and production on Graduation. It's original, distinctive, fun, uplifting, fresh, and just plain great-sounding. "Good Morning," "Champion," "Stronger," "I Wonder," "Lights,"Kanye West gets a ridiculous amount of praise, and lots of Grammys to prove that lots of people really like his stuff. I don't idolize Kanye, and actually dislike lots of his stuff, but I really like the music and production on Graduation. It's original, distinctive, fun, uplifting, fresh, and just plain great-sounding. "Good Morning," "Champion," "Stronger," "I Wonder," "Lights," "Homecoming," and "Big Brother" have fantastic music that feels like it can't ever get old. "Good Life," "I Am," and "Glory" also have strong music, but it's not as great as the music on the previously mentioned songs.

    The problems? "Nothing," "Bonds," and especially "Girls" are either far less impressive or even a little weak sounding. Even with it's shortcomings, Graduation is a musical masterpiece. Lyrically, however, it's mostly pretty weak. The last two songs and "I Am" actually have some good, interesting lyrics (for the most part). The other songs have mostly shallow lyrics about being rich and famous and sex that don't say anything very original or clever about those three topics.

    Still, Graduation is one of the most well-produced, amazing-sounding rap albums ever made. The weak lyrics keep it from true greatness.    … Expand
  52. C_dot
    Feb 14, 2019
    8
    Graduation summed up: The highs are very high (Stronger, I Wonder, Flashing Lights), and the lows are very low (Barry Bonds, Drunk and Hot Girls). The rest of the album has good songs, but mainly average for Kanye's standards.
  53. clem666
    Oct 15, 2020
    8
    From 2020, thank you Kanye for showing to us that you once were some inspired and talented artist. 'Graduation' is full of surprises and hidden pearls: insane features, magnificent hip-hop songs, indecent samples, varied use of diverse intruments, impressive themes adressed, this album is short and sharp as we all wish it should be. There is NO song in the entire project that is not superFrom 2020, thank you Kanye for showing to us that you once were some inspired and talented artist. 'Graduation' is full of surprises and hidden pearls: insane features, magnificent hip-hop songs, indecent samples, varied use of diverse intruments, impressive themes adressed, this album is short and sharp as we all wish it should be. There is NO song in the entire project that is not super famous, catchy or intriguing. Still in 'Graduation' we can hear Kanye's difficulties to rap like true rappers do: he sings more than anything else. Remains furthermore a classic.… Expand
  54. MidWestWill
    Mar 17, 2020
    8
    Graduation is the final production in Kanye West's "Dropout Bear" trilogy and contains some of Kanyes' most popular songs and tracks that shaped his career as a whole. Some of those tracks being Stronger, Good Life, Can't Tell Me Nothing, and Flashing Lights. And all of those tracks work just as well as singles as they do part of this project. Another thing that is a big plus to graduationGraduation is the final production in Kanye West's "Dropout Bear" trilogy and contains some of Kanyes' most popular songs and tracks that shaped his career as a whole. Some of those tracks being Stronger, Good Life, Can't Tell Me Nothing, and Flashing Lights. And all of those tracks work just as well as singles as they do part of this project. Another thing that is a big plus to graduation is that I could listen to it over and over again as a Kanye fan and as a music fan because of the well produced instrumentals, and Kanye Wests bars being just as good as they were on Late Registration. Another very extraordinary thing about this album is the pacing. Something that's very common in a Kanye West "Dropout Bear" album is that there is 2-3 skits. And during this album we see Kanye become a more focused and driven artist. But the skits were kind of something that a lot of fans appreciate about Kanyes early days. They were almost like a breath of fresh air, not from bad songs but a breath of fresh air of seriousness that was in the album. Personally I do think getting rid of the skits was a good idea because as a result the collection feels more cohesive and free flowing. But while I do think this album has some of Kanyes best pacing in his discography. This is still not one of my favorite albums from him. The reason why that is lies in the tracks, Barry Bonds, Drunk and Hot Girls, and Everything I Am. These songs instrumentals and rhythm sound very 2007 and as a result, very dated. I know that rap in 2007 was at this odd time when it didn't necessarily know what it wanted to be, but I just can't see myself choosing to listen to Barry Bonds over Stronger, or Flashing Lights. In a very tight nutshell, Graduation is a well produced and, well made with extremely catchy songs, and Kanye turning a new page in his career. Very solid album, 8/10… Expand
  55. bruhmoment2
    Aug 4, 2020
    8
    On Graduation, Kanye West establishes himself as an artist not to be ignored. Following up The College Dropout and Late Registration with the same level of quality is not an easy task. But Ye soars past that barrier with excellent features, a diverse genre of tracks, and spot-on production. Albeit, weaker production than his other albums, and I just don't see myself returning to the albumOn Graduation, Kanye West establishes himself as an artist not to be ignored. Following up The College Dropout and Late Registration with the same level of quality is not an easy task. But Ye soars past that barrier with excellent features, a diverse genre of tracks, and spot-on production. Albeit, weaker production than his other albums, and I just don't see myself returning to the album as a whole until, well, graduation! Nevertheless, it's a great album and a good starting album for anyone interested in Ye's discography.… Expand
  56. Wrong_Opinions
    Dec 21, 2020
    8
    Another fantastic project from Kanye. I’m going through his discography chronologically again and it really shows just how amazing these projects are. Kanye’s only miss is Jesus Is King. Everything else is a HIT.
  57. The-X-Territory
    Jan 24, 2021
    8
    Whilst it didn't live up to the greatness of it's predecessors, this album is still great. Whilst the Techno style isn't as appealing as the Soul style for me, this album is still a worthy addition to Ye's collection.
  58. hiphopplatinum
    Oct 2, 2022
    8
    personally, my 2nd favorite Kanye album to listen to for tracks like good morning, champion, stronger, I wonder, homecoming flashing lights & can't tell me nothing but the album has 2 tracks that I consider some of Kanye's worst works D&HG and Barry Bonds both tracks are boring and a drag to listen to but apart from those 2 tracks the production again improves more on this album and Ipersonally, my 2nd favorite Kanye album to listen to for tracks like good morning, champion, stronger, I wonder, homecoming flashing lights & can't tell me nothing but the album has 2 tracks that I consider some of Kanye's worst works D&HG and Barry Bonds both tracks are boring and a drag to listen to but apart from those 2 tracks the production again improves more on this album and I think sounds exactly what Kanye wanted it to sound like… Expand
  59. JamesJennings
    May 3, 2022
    8
    While it may be the weakest of the original college trilogy, that doesn't mean that it's a bad album at all. While it may be a different sound for Kanye, he nails the electronic synth-ey sounds heard throughout the entire project. This was the turning point in Kanye's career that lead to his wildly different-sounding discography.
  60. Blonisco
    Jan 26, 2023
    8
    不太喜欢，感觉没有熊一熊二那么精妙，之后后面有些曲子比如drunk and hot girl对我有点厕……但总体还是很不错的，凑字数凑字数凑字数凑字数
  61. JamesAutograph
    Sep 12, 2007
    7
    Not terrible...but the beats seem to overshadow his lyrics at times...but still a good listen, though.
  62. 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.
  63. 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
  64. lovemusic
    May 8, 2011
    7
    not his best attempt but its not his worse. i liked this album but it was okay. it was nothing to brag about. kinda disappointing this album was a kinda a let down
  65. Aoi
    Oct 12, 2013
    7
    Average lyrics and i don't really like all of the songs on here. Still a great album none the less but my least favourite album by Kanye West. Caters too much to the mainstream and sounds dumbed down.
  66. keve16
    Mar 22, 2015
    7
    7.4/10................................................................................................................................................
  67. FruitJuice
    Jul 17, 2017
    7
    good album............................................................................................................................................................
  68. Atum_
    Jun 8, 2020
    7
    Although some of the beats sound a bit dated today, this album still sound fairly fresh. The only thing is Stronger has been overplayed to the point where listening to it makes me mildly annoyed. It was a great track the first 100 times I heard it, but at this point it's just annoying. This also features some of Kanye's worst tracks, like Drunk and hot girls or Barry Bonds. This is a veryAlthough some of the beats sound a bit dated today, this album still sound fairly fresh. The only thing is Stronger has been overplayed to the point where listening to it makes me mildly annoyed. It was a great track the first 100 times I heard it, but at this point it's just annoying. This also features some of Kanye's worst tracks, like Drunk and hot girls or Barry Bonds. This is a very uplifting album though, so listen to this if you ever feel down… Expand
  69. Nickogo
    Jul 13, 2019
    7
    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
  70. Shaymooose
    Aug 17, 2019
    7
    This album changed pop music.

    Best Tracks:Homecoming, Stronger, Good Morning, Flashing Lights, I Wonder, Can’t Tell Me Nothing, Everything I Am, Good Life, Big Brother.
    Worst Tracks:Drunk Hot Girls
  71. Xellophone
    Oct 25, 2019
    7
    This is the album that has influenced the music at that time a lot, and it deserves it's appreciation
  72. dropoutgolf
    Mar 13, 2020
    7
    Although kanYe didn't top laTe Registration, he certainly made a great album, although I do think this album has a lot less amazing tracks, and just more consistently good ones (except for Bary Bonds and Drunk and Hot Girls) I like it, but wouldn't go back to listen to it.
    Favorite Song:
    Big Brother
  73. 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
  74. 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
  75. TylerU-Turn
    Sep 13, 2007
    6
    Sounds about right.
  76. 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.
  77. 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.
  78. IlyaR
    Nov 28, 2007
    6
    The NME review mostly had it right. There are some sick songs on this album (And "Stronger" is honestly about as good as any single he ever put out), but the album is neither forward moving nor exciting. "Late Registration" is an album you pop in a long, non-stop drive, fully immersing yourself in its soulful funk and brilliant lyrics. "Graduation" is an album from which two or three The NME review mostly had it right. There are some sick songs on this album (And "Stronger" is honestly about as good as any single he ever put out), but the album is neither forward moving nor exciting. "Late Registration" is an album you pop in a long, non-stop drive, fully immersing yourself in its soulful funk and brilliant lyrics. "Graduation" is an album from which two or three songs make it into your Ipod playlist.… Expand
  79. 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.
  80. 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
  81. CalR
    Feb 20, 2012
    5
    My initial love for this album faded only too quickly, now with 'Flashing Lights' and 'I Wonder' adding any replay value to what essentially is an over-hyped, over-stuffed and less endearing offering from Kanye.
  82. 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
  83. 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
  84. KevinD.
    Nov 22, 2008
    4
    This album is average at best. It only has four good songs. It will not be an album that lasts. Kanye's work has gotten progressively worse. I don't know what's causing it, but he needs to get it back together or go back to being a producer. If this was his first album, then nobody would be talking about Kanye. And don't let me get started on 808 and heartbreaks.
  85. JimJam
    Sep 12, 2007
    4
    Not great not bad. Overall it pales in comparison to the previous two albums.
  86. NolanLundgaard
    Apr 7, 2020
    4
    Graduation by Kanye West: 3.78

    Good Morning: 0.75 Champion: 1 :) Stronger: 1 :) I Wonder: 1 Good Life: 0.75 Can’t Tell Me Nothing: 0.75 Barry Bonds: 0 Drunk and Hot Girls: 0 Flashing Lights: 0.25 Everything I Am: 0.25 The Glory: 0.5 Homecoming: 0.75 Big Brother: 1 8/13 ~ .615 -> 3.78 Harder, better, faster, and stronger, this Kanye album manages to be the best I’ve    Graduation by Kanye West: 3.78

    Good Morning: 0.75
    Champion: 1 :)
    Stronger: 1 :)
    I Wonder: 1
    Good Life: 0.75
    Can’t Tell Me Nothing: 0.75
    Barry Bonds: 0
    Drunk and Hot Girls: 0
    Flashing Lights: 0.25
    Everything I Am: 0.25
    The Glory: 0.5
    Homecoming: 0.75
    Big Brother: 1

    8/13 ~ .615 -> 3.78

    Harder, better, faster, and stronger, this Kanye album manages to be the best I’ve reviewed from him so far even though this album is far from being a champion in my eyes. A few factors drag down the overall score to deep in the yellow, and Graduation beats out JESUS IS KING by a mere 0.01 points. This is not because the messages behind Kanye’s music is better in Graduation (because they’re not) but because of the musicality. I don’t usually listen to rap, so I kind of have to analyze it differently than other types of music, but I still greatly appreciate it (and rate it positively) if the music is good. Because of this, I would actually add a Kanye song to my playlist for the first time. The song Stronger in particular is so good and I liked both the music and its message. I only wish I could say the same for the rest of the songs, since Graduation loses a bunch of points for extensive use of strong/offensive language and weird music dynamics, which have become a theme in Kanye’s music (although better here than in JESUS IS KING). Thus, I have mixed results about this album, and this can be seen through the rating I give it. Highlights: Champion, Stronger, I Wonder, and Big Brother.    … Expand
  87. 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
  88. 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
  89. 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
  90. Tuneison
    Mar 12, 2019
    1
    More like regurgitation. This is just an awful album in terms of production, lyrics, and just everything. By far Kanye's worst. Not anything I ever want to listen to again.
  91. MikeMulaney
    Nov 19, 2020
    1
    Generic music, nothing special, typical Kanye egomania top to bottom, not worth the time.
  92. 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
  93. ChrisW.
    Sep 10, 2007
    0
    If he would only stick to producing... Sorry Kanye, but you can't rap! You're disgracing the Hip-Hop Community with this garbage.
  94. 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.
  95. 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
  96. 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
  97. AdamL
    Oct 21, 2007
    0
    Soul-less garbage. Kanye West is the next P. Diddy.
  98. John
    Dec 6, 2007
    0
    TOTAL CRAP!!! better off burning 12 bux than buying this cd
  99. 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.
  100. 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
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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.
    Read full review
  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
See all critic reviews »