After months of anticipation, Kanye West has finally released his long-awaited album Donda.
After a series of promotional events that did not result in the release of new songs, the 44-year-old rapper released the 27-track album on streaming sites.
The album, which was supposed to be released a year ago but was repeatedly delayed, includes songs by Marilyn Manson and DaBaby, two contentious individuals.
West had stated that the album would be released in July but instead spent time working on the record while residing at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, where he had conducted a listening party.
His estranged wife Kim Kardashian West made a show-stealing debut at the most recent listening event in Chicago, coming from the audience in a wedding gown months after filing for divorce from the rapper.
West's tenth studio album is dedicated to his late mother.
Jay-Z, The Weeknd, Lil Baby, Playboi Carti, Kid Cudi, and the late rapper Pop Smoke are among the contributors on the album, which is the follow-up to 2019's Jesus Is King.
Jay-Z is featured on the second track on the album, Jail.
West had replaced his verse on the single during the latest listening event with one by DaBaby, who had just been chastised for homophobic remarks made at a music festival.
With images of text texts released on Instagram, West attempted to offer an explanation for DaBaby's absence from the track.
One screenshot appears to be of a text discussion with one of his reps, in which West is informed that DaBaby's manager has not given his permission for the cameo on Jail.
Another screenshot appears to be of text messages between West and DaBaby, in which West informs DaBaby that the album would not be released due to the delay.
DaBaby does have a verse on another track, Jail pt 2.
Brian Warner, the real name of shock rocker Marilyn Manson, who has denied any allegations of sexual assault and who made a surprise appearance with West and DaBaby at the recent event in Chicago, is credited with co-writing both Jail and Jail pt2.
Donda West, a Chicago State University English professor, died in 2007 at the age of 58 as a result of complications from cosmetic surgery.
West was devastated by her passing, and in addition to his latest record, he named a creative content company after her.
