Without a question, one of the most significant artists of the twenty-first century is Kanye West. Many people are surprised to learn that Kanye West does not currently have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, despite having a two-decade career, 21 Grammy Awards, and a significant influence on fashion, music, and society.
Fans and industry watchers alike have been talking a lot about this absence. How can a person who has had such a significant cultural impact, who has inspired a generation, reshaped hip-hop, and defied expectations, be excluded from one of Hollywood’s most prestigious awards?
The Influence of Kanye West
After starting as a producer, Kanye West, now legally known as Ye, became a solo artist in 2004 with the publication of his ground-breaking album The College Dropout. He has since put out several highly regarded albums, including Yeezus, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, and Late Registration. He has gained recognition among the top musicians thanks to his avant-garde production methods, reflective lyrics, and audacious demeanor. With his Yeezy brand, Kanye has transformed fashion in addition to music, influencing international trends and partnering with well-known designers. Beyond his own achievements, West has influenced the careers of numerous musicians, such as Travis Scott, Big Sean, and Kid Cudi, and he has also been instrumental in the ascent of Pusha T and designer Virgil Abloh. His influence cannot be denied.
Why Doesn’t Kanye Have a Star Yet?
Celebrities are not automatically granted stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame based solely on their popularity or accomplishments. A certain nomination and selection procedure is used. Sponsors are required to submit nominees and pay a $55,000 charge in the event that the nomination is accepted. The celebrity also has to consent to a public unveiling ceremony.
Remarkably, Kanye West has also expressed disapproval of the Walk of Fame’s rules. About his ex-wife, Kim Kardashian, he publicly criticized the organization in 2013 for failing to recognize reality TV personalities. “Kim Kardashian should have a star on the Walk of Fame,” he stated. His remarks expressed his annoyance at what he perceived to be antiquated norms in a changing entertainment industry.
Based only on their achievements or level of fame, celebrities are not given stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. There is a specific nomination and selection process. In addition to submitting nominees, sponsors must also pay a $55,000 fee should their nomination be accepted. Additionally, the celebrity must agree to a public unveiling event.
It is noteworthy that Kanye West has also voiced his displeasure with the Walk of Fame’s regulations. In 2013, he publicly chastised the group for not recognizing reality TV stars, specifically referring to his ex-wife, Kim Kardashian. “Kim Kardashian should have a star on the Walk of Fame,” he said. His comments conveyed his frustration with what he saw as outdated conventions in a rapidly evolving entertainment sector.
Kanye has been spotted helping others even if he doesn’t have his star. He was present when Charlie Wilson’s star was unveiled on the Walk of Fame in January 2024. Snoop Dogg, Tyler, The Creator, and Ty Dolla $ign were among the artists who joined Kanye to commemorate the occasion with his longtime partner, demonstrating his ongoing influence in the entertainment industry.
Will Kanye Ever Get a Star?
Kanye West will undoubtedly get a star in the future given his accomplishments and legacy. It’s another matter entirely whether he decides to take part in the process. Kanye may not feel the need for such recognition or he may choose to achieve it on his own terms given his reputation for rebellion and disdain for conventional conventions.
Even though Kanye West does not currently have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, his reputation and influence are still very much alive. Kanye’s name is already ingrained in the annals of fashion, music, and culture, whether or not it is inscribed on the sidewalk.
