Paranoid (Kanye West song)

Last updated

Gnome-mime-sound-openclipart.svg
"Paranoid"
An 24-second sample of "Paranoid", showcasing the electronic drum effects and pop synths on the chorus. The instrumentation is accompanied by vocals from West, Mr Hudson, and Kid Cudi.
Problems playing this file? See media help.

Musically, "Paranoid" is an upbeat new wave song that runs for a duration of four minutes and thirty-seven seconds, and includes an electronic sound throughout. [1] [9] [10] [11] Its instrumentation has synth-pop elements, nodding towards influences such as English musician Phil Collins and pop rock band Tears for Fears. [6] The instrumentation contains electronic drum effects and pop synths. [12] The song utilizes the Roland TR-808, which creates a sparse sound. [8] [13] Blips and keyboards are also featured, the latter of which were contributed by Bhasker. [1] [14] The song commences with an insistent tone that is followed by a 1980s-style chord, before the switch to upbeat occurs at the 50 second mark. [15] Throughout the song, West sings through Auto-Tune. [16] West, Mr Hudson, and Kid Cudi perform its chorus, with the latter of the three's vocals being included in the background. [1] [17] [18]

Throughout the song, West sings about being in a serious relationship with a lady that pushes him away with her mistrustful thinking, whom he believes "worries about the wrong things". [19] West begins the song by excitedly saying, "Why are you so paranoid?" The lyrics are used in the first verse by him to show that even though the song may seem positive, its background circulates around conflict and death. West recites lines that depict a negative image and reveal feelings of opposition towards the lady he is referencing. [12]

Release

"Paranoid" was released as the sixth track on West's fourth studio album 808s & Heartbreak on November 24, 2008. [20] It was sent to radio stations in the United States five months later on March 23, 2009 as the album's fourth single, shortly after the release of the third single, "Amazing". [21] While "Amazing" was serviced to rhythmic/urban radio stations, "Paranoid" was only sent to US top 40 radio. [21] [22] [23] A digital EP was released in the US on June 16, which included a new mix of "Paranoid" and the song's accompanying music video. [24] That same day, the new mix was released on its own as a digital download in the US. [25] Six days later, the same version was released for download in Belgium. [26]

On December 16, 2008, a remix was released featuring Big Sean and Mr Hudson. [27] Another remix featuring Barbadian singer Rihanna had been recorded in the fall of 2008 and was supposed to be released to US mainstream radio stations on January 27, 2009, as the third single from 808s & Heartbreak. [28] [29]

Critical reception

Paranoid was met with universal acclaim from music critics, with general acclaim going towards the production. Nathan Rabin of The A.V. Club looked at "Paranoid" as veering "into the Neptunes' twitchy, glitchy space-disco". [30] The New York Times critic Jon Caramanica described it as a slick and breezy track and drew comparisons to the music of the Kelis and Omarion, saying "this music is redolent of the chilly, slightly irregular R&B the producers the Neptunes were making four or five years ago". [13] The song was cited by Scott Plagenhoef of Pitchfork as being one of the best tracks on 808s & Heartbreak; he viewed it and his other best track selections as among the album's "most dismal, with cavernous production giving the Auto-Tune vocals more of an echoing desolation than a pop sheen". [16] Simon Price of The Independent picked the song as the best track from the record and labelled it "anomalously upbeat". [31] Isaac Shur, writing for WRBB 104.9 FM, commented that there is "remnants of [West's 2007 album] Graduation 's more upbeat, dancey vibe on 'Paranoid,' demonstrating that 808s isn't a one trick pony of emotional ballads". [32] Alex Macpherson from The Guardian saw the song's "disco bounce" as one of "the isolated moments of levity" on the album that "are a relief". [33] For Slant Magazine , Wilson McBee chronicled that the song is "a disco-tinged track brighter than anything else on the album" and thought it "begs for a pulsating bassline", while pinpointing Mr Hudson's chorus as the main reason behind the success. [34] Ally Brown of The Skinny described the song as what "has an irresistible playful synth-line and reassuring chorus hook courtesy of Mr Hudson". [17] In 2023, Billboard named it the 23rd best pop song to never hit the US Billboard Hot 100, with the magazine's writers highlighting the "neon shimmer" of Graduation's singles that results in a pop sound. [35]

A few reviewers viewed "Paranoid" in a more negative light. At NME , Jaimie Hodgson assumed that the song fails to distract from its "flaky" hook and "backpack-rap-style" beat via "Frenchie-coffee-table-lektro blips". [14] Charles Aaron from Spin described it as where "you're left anxiously conflicted, with the weird sensation that you've somehow stumbled onto a boys-only Kanye karaoke party, where he's trashed on Baileys and inexplicably crooning the Ne-Yo songbook". [36] Andy Kellman of AllMusic complained that the song's "relative pep" offers "no respite", noting the "bitter lyrics" undermine "a boisterous beat". [20]

Music video

Background

The accompanying music video stars Rihanna, following a fantasy based on her paranoid state of mind. Rihanna AMA 2009 Red carpet.jpg
The accompanying music video stars Rihanna, following a fantasy based on her paranoid state of mind.

The music video for "Paranoid" was directed by Nabil Elderkin and along with the one for "Amazing", filmed in Hawaii. [37] The state was one of the places that West recorded the song itself in. [1] Elderkin had directed West in the past on the videos for "Champion" and "Welcome to Heartbreak". [37] The song was the last track from 808s & Heartbreak to have an accompanying video released. [28] During a brief interview at the 2009 Tribeca Film Festival, West revealed he had cast Rihanna as a lead in the video. [28] In reference to working with Rihanna, West said in the interview: "Yep, she's my Paranoid girl in the video. She's an amazing talent though. Collaborating with her is always a pleasure!" [28] Prior to being cast, Rihanna had taken a break from making her own music videos. [38]

Island Def Jam chairman L.A. Reid presented a version of the video during an Island Def Jam Event in New York City on May 20, 2009. [39] The music video leaked online on May 27. [40] The next day, West clarified on his blog that the video was an unfinished version that he was hurt to see leaked, posting screenshots of the final version. [40] In an interview that took place the following day, Elderkin stated that the leak was merely an early rough cut. In terms of visuals, Elderkin had originally wanted to design the video in an artistic style reminiscent to that of A Clockwork Orange , but West subsequently opted for an abstracted noir concept instead. [37]

Synopsis and reception

The music video's premise is rooted in fantasy, centering around Rihanna's paranoid state of mind causing her to experience a surrealistic dream sequence. Meanwhile, West appears in some scenes in his human form and also his wolf form during the dream sequence. [37] On June 3, 2009, West released the finalized version of the music video on his blog, just hours after premiering an unreleased video for his 2004 song "Spaceship." [41] It was revealed by West that the video was supposed to have been released on June 4, though he explained the early release with: "I'd rather you guys have a clear version...." [42] After West released the music video for fellow 808s & Heartbreak track "Coldest Winter" in February 2010, Elderkin revealed that West originally had more screen time in the video for "Paranoid" than he had in the final version. [43]

Shamz of Okayplayer felt that "the visuals only enhance the track further". [44] Kathleen Newman-Bremang of MTV described the video as what "finds Kanye in his true form, delivering a high-concept music video that feels more like a piece of art than anything else". [45] At the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, it was nominated for Best Special Effects in a Video, but lost to "Paparazzi" by Lady Gaga. [46] [47]

Commercial performance

On April 25, 2009, the song made its debut at number 37 on the US Billboard Mainstream Top 40 chart. [48] It fell down to number 38 the following week, though ultimately peaked at number 34 on May 9. [49] [50] The same week as the peak, "Paranoid" entered the US Rhythmic chart at number 40. [51] The song reached its peak of number 37 on the chart for the issue dated May 16, 2009. [52] On the US Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100, the song peaked at number 18 on May 18, 2009, and spent a total of two weeks on the chart. [53] It was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for pushing 500,000 certified units in the US on September 23, 2020. [54]

For the issue date of July 20, 2009, "Paranoid" debuted at number 90 on the ARIA Singles Chart. [55] The following week, it exited the chart. [56] The song performed best on the Belgium Ultratip Wallonia chart, on which it peaked at number 14 for the issue dated September 12, 2009. [57] Similarly, the song reached number 15 on the Belgium Ultratip Flanders chart issue dated August 29, 2009. [58]

Live performances

West performed the song as part of his February 2009 VH1 show. [59] However, the performance was not originally broadcast on the network. [59] Instead, it was issued as the twelfth and final performance on the DVD of West's second live album VH1 Storytellers on January 5, 2010, being included as a bonus number. [59] [60] [61] While showcasing artists signed onto his GOOD Music imprint for South by Southwest (SXSW) at the Levi's/Fader Fort on March 21, 2009, West performed the song with Kid Cudi and Mr Hudson. [62] During the showcase, West predicted that Mr Hudson will be playing 50,000-seat stadiums. [62] In his diary, the musician writes that he was backstage when him and Kid Cudi were called on to join West for performing the chorus. [18] Mr Hudson also recalls that the rapper shouted to him to "take the high notes" and suggested he will "take the low notes", which was followed by the two appearing on cue. [18] During West's headlining set for the 2009 Wireless Festival at Hyde Park in London, he performed the song while rocking his customary aviator shades and black suit jacket. [63] At the 2009 iTunes Festival, Mr Hudson encouraged West to perform more music with him after their performance of "Heartless". [64] This was followed by the two delivering a performance of "Paranoid" with accompaniment from a seven-piece band, which was broadcast on ITV. [64] [65]

West, Mr Hudson, and Kid Cudi performing the song on a staircase at the 2015 Hollywood Bowl. Kanye West's 808s & Heartbreak @ The Hollywood Bowl - Night 1 (09-25-15) (21725306822).jpg
West, Mr Hudson, and Kid Cudi performing the song on a staircase at the 2015 Hollywood Bowl.

For West's two night concert of 808s & Heartbreak in full at the 2015 Hollywood Bowl in September, he performed the track with Mr Hudson and Kid Cudi as the set's sixth number. [66] [67] This marked West's first performance of the track since November 23, 2010, with him wearing loose garments in white and off-white shades as he performed. [66] [68] The performers were supported by a small band and a medium-sized orchestra, while the overhead lights turned from white to red. [68] [69] West, Mr Hudson, and Kid Cudi climbed a staircase on the stage together, before West asked if the crowd were enjoying themselves and happily stated, "It's my first time getting to play here!" [70] [71] The former of the three encouraged the crowd to appreciate the other two; he gave them a shout out towards the end of the performance. [67] [71] West and Kid Cudi performed "Paranoid" at the 2018 Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival, which was their first concert under the Kids See Ghosts moniker. [72] While it stood as the ninth track of their set, the song was the first track the duo performed that was not released as Kids See Ghosts. [73] The transparent box that they performed the song from featured flashing LEDs inside, and the crowd gave a strong reception to their performance. [74] [75]

Cover versions and usage in media

In the lead up to the release of their 2010 studio album Golden Week For The Poco Poco Beat, Japanese pop rock band the Suzan shared a cover version of "Paranoid" on October 19, 2010. [76] [77] The cover is a ballad that has a stripped-down musical style, with it including a minimal bassline. [76] [78] The lack of Auto-Tune on the ballad differs from the original, and it contains choral vocals. [77] [78] Following West's interruption of the band's showcase on October 23, 2010, they admitted he lacked awareness of the cover while being hopeful to collaborate with him on another version of the song. [78]

On July 11, 2018, Colombian-American R&B singer Kali Uchis covered the track for her session at Maida Vale Studios on Annie Mac's BBC Radio 1 show, which was her only cover during the session. [79] [80] Prior to the performance, Uchis opened up about how she loves the song and West's older work in general, especially 808s & Heartbreak due to the heavy inspiration taken from it making her think covering "Paranoid" was sensical. [80] She also announced herself as being a large fan of Kid Cudi's work, admitting to "just love all of the musicality of it and [...] how he was, like, trying to do something different with his voice and everything in it", specializing "the heart" in the song. [79] [80] Uchis started her performance 17 minutes and 20 seconds into the session, adding her signature sound and a soulful style to the song. [79] [81] Bryson Tiller sampled "Paranoid" on his track of the same title, which credits West for production. [9] [82]

Track listings

Digital download [25]

  1. "Paranoid" (NEW Mix) [feat. Mr Hudson] – 4:45

Digital EP [24]

  1. "Paranoid" (NEW Mix) [feat. Mr Hudson] – 4:45
  2. "Paranoid" (Music Video) [feat. Mr Hudson] – 3:24

Credits and personnel

Information taken from 808s & Heartbreak liner notes. [1]

Recording

Personnel

  • Kanye West  – songwriter, production
  • Plain Pat  – songwriter, co-production
  • Jeff Bhasker  – songwriter, co-production, keyboards
  • Kid Cudi  – songwriter, background vocals
  • Dexter Mills  – songwriter
  • Andrew Dawson  – recorder
  • Anthony Kilhoffer  – recorder
  • Chad Carlisle – assistant recorder
  • Isha Erskine – assistant recorder
  • Gaylord Holomalia – assistant recorder
  • Christian Mochizuki – assistant recorder
  • Manny Marroquin  – mix engineer
  • Christian Plata – assistant engineer
  • Erik Madrid – assistant engineer

Charts

"Paranoid"
Paranoidcover.png
Single by Kanye West featuring Mr Hudson
from the album 808s & Heartbreak
ReleasedMarch 23, 2009
Recorded2008
Studio
Genre New wave
Length4:37(album version)
4:45 (new mix)
3:25 (video version)
Label
Songwriter(s)
Producer(s) Kanye West
Kanye West singles chronology
"Amazing"
(2009)		"Paranoid"
(2009)		"Knock You Down"
(2009)
Mr Hudson singles chronology
"There Will Be Tears"
(2008)		"Paranoid"
(2009)		"Supernova"
(2009)
Chart performance for "Paranoid"
Chart (2009)Peak
position
Australia (ARIA) [55] 90
Belgium (Ultratip Bubbling Under Flanders) [58] 15
Belgium (Ultratip Bubbling Under Wallonia) [57] 14
US Bubbling Under Hot 100 Singles ( Billboard ) [53] 18
US Pop Airplay ( Billboard ) [83] 34
US Rhythmic ( Billboard ) [52] 37

Certifications

Certifications for "Paranoid"
RegionCertification Certified units/sales
United States (RIAA) [54] Gold500,000‡

‡ Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone.

Release history

Release dates and formats for "Paranoid"
RegionDateFormatLabel(s)Ref.
United StatesMarch 23, 2009 Top 40 radio [21]
June 16, 2009Digital EP [24]
Digital download [25]
BelgiumJune 22, 2009 [26]

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mr Hudson</span> English musician from Birmingham

Benjamin Hudson McIldowie, better known by his stage name Mr Hudson, is an English singer, songwriter, and record producer from Birmingham, England. He formed the band Mr Hudson and the Library in 2006, for which he served as lead vocalist, and signed with American rapper Kanye West's record label, GOOD Music through a joint venture with Mercury Records as a solo act two years later. He is best known for his guest performance on West's 2009 single "Paranoid", as well as his songwriting contributions to "Say You Will" and "Street Lights"; all three appeared on West's fourth album, 808s & Heartbreak (2008).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Love Lockdown</span> 2008 single by Kanye West

"Love Lockdown" is a song by American rapper Kanye West from his fourth studio album, 808s & Heartbreak (2008). The song was produced by West, while co-produced by Jeff Bhasker. The producers co-wrote it with Esthero, Malik Yusef, and Starshell. West initially shared the song via his blog on September 10, 2008, before re-recording it after negative reactions. The song was later released for digital download on September 18, 2008 by Roc-A-Fella and Def Jam as the lead single from the album. An electropop song, its instrumentation relies on piano and Roland TR-808 drumbeats.

<i>808s & Heartbreak</i> 2008 studio album by Kanye West

808s & Heartbreak is the fourth studio album by the American rapper Kanye West. It was released by Def Jam Recordings and Roc-A-Fella Records on November 24, 2008, having been recorded earlier that year in September and October at Glenwood Studios in Burbank, California and Avex Recording Studio in Honolulu, Hawaii. Dominating its production, West was assisted by fellow producers No I.D., Plain Pat, Jeff Bhasker, and Mr Hudson, while also utilizing guest vocalists for some tracks, including Kid Cudi, Young Jeezy, and Lil Wayne.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Heartless (Kanye West song)</span> 2008 single by Kanye West

"Heartless" is a song by American rapper Kanye West from his fourth studio album, 808s & Heartbreak (2008). The song was written by West, No I.D., Kid Cudi and Malik Yusef, while being produced by the former two. It was passed on to West during recording sessions, after originally being intended for inclusion on Jay-Z's eleventh studio album, The Blueprint 3 (2009). Following the song's debut at the 2008 Democratic National Convention (DNC), West shared an unmastered version via his blog on October 15, 2008. The song was later serviced to US rhythmic contemporary radio stations as the second single from 808s & Heartbreak on October 28, through Roc-A-Fella and Def Jam. A pop ballad with influences of hip hop and R&B, it features synthesizers.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">See You in My Nightmares</span> 2008 song by Kanye West featuring Lil Wayne

"See You in My Nightmares" is a song by American rapper Kanye West, featuring fellow rapper Lil Wayne, from the former's fourth studio album, 808s & Heartbreak (2008). The song was written by West, No I.D., Jeff Bhasker and Lil Wayne. with production from the former two. It was scheduled to be released as the album's third single on March 10, 2009, ultimately being canceled in favor of "Amazing". A club number with an electronic beat, it relies on strings and synths. Lyrically, West and Lil Wayne discuss relationship troubles.

<i>Man on the Moon: The End of Day</i> 2009 studio album by Kid Cudi

Man on the Moon: The End of Day is the debut studio album by American rapper Kid Cudi. It was released on September 15, 2009, through Dream On, GOOD Music, and Universal Motown Records. A concept album, narrated by fellow American rapper Common, it follows the release of his first full-length project A Kid Named Cudi (2008), and is the first installment of the Man on the Moon trilogy. Production was handled by several high-profile record producers, including Kanye West, Emile Haynie, Plain Pat, and Jeff Bhasker, as well as contributions from Dot da Genius, Free School and The Kickdrums, among others.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Amazing (Kanye West song)</span> 2009 song by Kanye West

"Amazing" is a song by American rapper Kanye West from his fourth studio album, 808s & Heartbreak (2008). The song features a guest appearance from Young Jeezy, and includes background vocals from Mr Hudson and Tony Williams. It was produced by West, while co-produced by Jeff Bhasker. The producers wrote the song alongside Malik Yusef, Consequence, Jeff Bhasker, and Young Jeezy. The song was serviced to US rhythmic contemporary and urban contemporary radio stations as the third single from the album on March 10, 2009, by Roc-A-Fella and Def Jam. A hip hop song with heavy pop influences, it features piano. Lyrically, West sings an attempt to capture part of his former bravado.

"Welcome to Heartbreak" is a song by American rapper and record producer Kanye West from his fourth studio album, 808s & Heartbreak (2008). The song features a guest appearance from Kid Cudi on his debut collaboration with West, as well as background vocals by Jeff Bhasker. It was produced by West, with co-production from Bhasker and Plain Pat; the three of them served as the songwriters alongside Kid Cudi. The inspiration behind the song was a conversation West had with Dave Sirulnick, who showed him some pictures of his children. A hip pop number, it has electronic instrumentation that is reliant on piano. In the lyrics of the song, West mentions trying to fill the lack of substance in his life with extravagant materialistic items.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Say You Will (Kanye West song)</span> 2008 song by Kanye West

"Say You Will" is a song by American rapper Kanye West, released as the opening track on his fourth studio album, 808s & Heartbreak (2008). The song contains vocals from the Kadockadee Kwire featuring Glenn Jordan, Phillip Ingram, Jim Gilstrap, Romeo Johnson, Kevin Dorsey, and Will Wheaton. It also includes background vocals from Mr Hudson and Tony Williams. The song was produced by West, who co-wrote it with Jeff Bhasker, Young Jeezy, Malik Yusef, Mr Hudson, and Consequence. In 2008, the song was recorded over a time period of 15 minutes. It is a melancholy hip hop and R&B ballad, which features synth-pop production.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Make Her Say</span> 2009 single by Kid Cudi featuring Kanye West and Common

"Make Her Say" is a song by American hip hop recording artist Kid Cudi, released as the second single from his debut album Man on the Moon: The End of Day (2009). The single was digitally released to iTunes on June 9, 2009. It features fellow American rappers Common and Kanye West, the latter of whom also produced the song. The song is perhaps best known for its sample of the US number-one hit single "Poker Face", as performed by American singer Lady Gaga. The song received a nomination for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards.

<i>Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager</i> 2010 studio album by Kid Cudi

Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager is the second studio album by American rapper Kid Cudi. It was released on November 9, 2010, through Dream On and GOOD Music, and distributed by Universal Motown Records. It serves as a sequel to his debut studio album Man on the Moon: The End of Day (2009), and is the second installment of the Man on the Moon trilogy. Production for the album took place during 2009 to 2010 at various recording studios and was handled by long-time collaborators Emile Haynie and Plain Pat. It also featured contributions from Anthony Kilhoffer, Blended Babies, Chuck Inglish, Dot da Genius, Jim Jonsin, and Rami Beatz, among others. The album was supported by two singles: "Erase Me" and "Mr. Rager".

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Erase Me (song)</span> 2010 single by Kid Cudi featuring Kanye West

"Erase Me" is a song by American musician Kid Cudi, released August 17, 2010, as the lead single from his second studio album Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager (2010). It features a guest appearance by his mentor, fellow American rapper Kanye West, and was produced by Jim Jonsin. The song proved to be another hit single for Cudi, with the song reaching the top 40 of the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

"All of the Lights" is a song by American rapper Kanye West, released as the fourth single from his fifth studio album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (2010). It was produced by West and features additional vocals from several other recording artists, including John Legend, The-Dream, Drake, Alicia Keys, Fergie, Elton John, Ryan Leslie, Charlie Wilson, Tony Williams, La Roux, Alvin Fields, Ken Lewis, Kid Cudi, and Rihanna; the latter two are credited on the official music video and single version, but not on the album version. It is often played along with its accompanying interlude "All of the Lights (Interlude)", which precedes the song on the album's tracklist.

"Gorgeous" is a song by American hip hop recording artist Kanye West from his fifth studio album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (2010). The track features a hook provided by Kid Cudi, a recording artist formerly signed to West's label GOOD Music, and a rap verse provided by the Wu-Tang Clan member Raekwon. The song was written by West, Cudi, Raekwon, No I.D., Mike Dean and Rhymefest, and was produced by West, No I.D. and Dean. It contains elements of Enoch Light and the Glittering Guitars' cover version of The Turtles' song "You Showed Me". "Gorgeous" received mostly positive reviews from music critics, who generally praised the intricacy of the production, the quality of the guest features and the rock music-inspired aesthetic of the song. Several critics cited West's verses as a highlight of the track, complimenting his lyricism and delivery.

Anthony Kilhoffer is an American hip hop record producer, songwriter, and engineer, best known for his collaborations with Kanye West, Kid Cudi, Keyshia Cole and John Legend.

"RoboCop" is a song by American rapper Kanye West from his fourth studio album, 808s & Heartbreak (2008). The song contains background vocals from Tony Williams and Jeff Bhasker. It was solely produced by West, who served as a songwriter alongside Esthero, Malik Yusef, Consequence, Kid Cudi, Williams, Bhasker, T-Pain, and Young Jeezy. Due to the embodiment of Patrick Doyle's work, a songwriting credit for him was added. The song was recorded in 2008 across numerous studios, being tweaked to perfection. Manny Marroquin explained how it was a challenge to make, confirming that multiple versions were created. An art pop number with an orchestral style, it embodies portions of "Kissing in the Rain", performed by Doyle.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Kids See Ghosts</span> American hip hop duo

Kids See Ghosts was an American hip hop superduo composed of rappers Kanye West and Kid Cudi. Formed during West's 2018 Wyoming sessions, the duo's first album Kids See Ghosts was released in June of that year by Def Jam Recordings, along with their respective label imprints, GOOD Music and Wicked Awesome Records. Met with critical and commercial success, the album peaked at number 2 on the US Billboard 200 and received Gold certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The duo disbanded in 2022 due to personal disagreements, although they reconciled the following year.

"Guilt Trip" is a song by American hip hop recording artist Kanye West, from his sixth studio album Yeezus (2013). It was produced by West, Mike Dean, S1, with an additional production credit for Travis Scott and Ackeejuice Rockers for the samples of "Chief Rocka" by Lords of the Underground and "Blocka" by Pusha T featuring Popcaan and Travis Scott. The song's lyrics deal with looking back at a failed relationship, similar to fellow Yeezus track "Blood on the Leaves". West provides his vocals through rapping and singing through an Auto-Tune processor, reminiscent of his 2008 album 808s & Heartbreak. The song includes vocals from rapper Kid Cudi, who later expressed negative opinions about his feature due to his vocals being recorded years prior.

"Street Lights" is a song by American record producer and vocalist Kanye West from his fourth studio album, 808s & Heartbreak (2008). The song features background vocals from Esthero and Tony Williams. It was produced by West and co-produced by Mr Hudson. The producers co-wrote the song with Esthero and Williams. For the song, West was inspired by driving past street lights. A pop piano ballad with indie pop elements, it features shoegaze synths. Lyrically, West references street lights passing by like memories and time.

"Coldest Winter" is a song by American record producer and vocalist Kanye West from his fourth studio album, 808s & Heartbreak (2008). The song was produced by West, with co-production from No I.D. and Jeff Bhasker. The producers served as songwriters alongside Roland Orzabal, who received a writing credit as a result of music that he wrote being interpolated. In October 2008, the song was previewed via Power 106. An electropop number, it interpolates Tears for Fears' "Memories Fade". In the lyrics, Kanye mourns the death of Donda West.

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 808s & Heartbreak (Media notes). Kanye West. Roc-A-Fella Records. 2008. 0-06025-1791919-8.{{cite AV media notes}}: CS1 maint: others in cite AV media (notes) (link)
  2. 1 2 3 Fennessy, Sean (July 16, 2009). "Kanye West protege Mr Hudson has debut performance at NYC's Canal Room". Rolling Stone . Archived from the original on June 14, 2019. Retrieved April 29, 2019.
  3. 1 2 3 Fitzgerald, Kiana (June 8, 2018). "A Timeline of How Kid Cudi and Kanye Became Kids See Ghosts". Complex . Archived from the original on May 13, 2019. Retrieved May 13, 2019.
  4. 1 2 Brown, Preezy (November 26, 2018). "How Kanye West channeled his heartache into a masterpiece with '808s & Heartbreak'". Revolt. Archived from the original on May 13, 2019. Retrieved May 13, 2019.
  5. ↑ Saponara, Michael (April 24, 2018). "Kanye West & Kid Cudi's Best Collaborations: Critic's Picks". Billboard . Archived from the original on June 28, 2018. Retrieved May 13, 2019.
  6. 1 2 Smith, Trevor (November 24, 2016). "Kanye West – Paranoid Feat. Mr Hudson". HotNewHipHop. Archived from the original on April 30, 2019. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  7. ↑ Macia, Peter (November 25, 2008). "Fader 58: Kanye West Cover Story and Interview". The Fader . Archived from the original on December 2, 2008. Retrieved July 14, 2021.
  8. 1 2 3 Saponara, Michael (November 24, 2018). "Kanye West's 808s & Heartbreak Turns 10: Engineer Anthony Kilhoffer Revisits the Influential Album". Billboard. Archived from the original on November 24, 2018. Retrieved July 14, 2021.
  9. 1 2 3 Saponara, Michael (November 24, 2017). "Kanye West's '808s & Heartbreak' Turns 9: Ranking the Album's Tracks". Billboard. Archived from the original on November 23, 2018. Retrieved May 9, 2019.
  10. ↑ McDermott, Maeve (November 23, 2018). "As Kanye West's '808s and Heartbreak' Turns 10, Will He Ever Inspire Us Again?". USA Today . Archived from the original on November 23, 2018. Retrieved November 29, 2018.
  11. ↑ Alonso, Sebas (December 3, 2008). "Kanye West / 808s & Heartbreak". Jenesaispop (in Spanish). Archived from the original on August 3, 2018. Retrieved June 2, 2019.
  12. 1 2 McGuire, Colin (July 5, 2011). "Hip-Hop's Heartbreak: Kanye West – 'Paranoid'". PopMatters . Archived from the original on May 4, 2019. Retrieved May 4, 2019.
  13. 1 2 Caramanica, Jon (November 24, 2008). "Kanye West's '808s & Heartbreak' Chills on the Frills" . The New York Times . Archived from the original on June 17, 2011. Retrieved May 12, 2019.
  14. 1 2 Hodgson, Jaimie (November 19, 2008). "Kanye West – '808s And Heartbreak' review". NME . Archived from the original on February 2, 2019. Retrieved May 21, 2019.
  15. ↑ Heaton, Dave (December 1, 2008). "Kanye West 808s and Heartbreak < Reviews". PopMatters. Archived from the original on December 2, 2008. Retrieved July 14, 2021.
  16. 1 2 Plagenhoef, Scott (December 2, 2008). "Kanye West: 808s & Heartbreak Album Review". Pitchfork . Archived from the original on May 12, 2019. Retrieved May 21, 2019.
  17. 1 2 Brown, Ally (November 28, 2008). "Kanye West – 808s and Heartbreak". The Skinny . Archived from the original on July 31, 2018. Retrieved May 21, 2019.
  18. 1 2 3 "Mr Hudson's SXSW Diary – Onstage With Kanye West – Mission Accomplished". NME. March 23, 2009. Archived from the original on May 8, 2019. Retrieved May 8, 2019.
  19. ↑ Reid, Shaheem (November 19, 2008). "Kanye West Focuses On Melodies On 'Minimal But Functional' 808s & Heartbreak". MTV. Archived from the original on January 16, 2009. Retrieved May 4, 2019.
  20. 1 2 Kellman, Andy. "808s & Heartbreak – Kanye West". AllMusic. Archived from the original on March 26, 2019. Retrieved April 15, 2019.
  21. 1 2 3 "Top 40 – Week Of: March 23, 2009". Radio & Records . Archived from the original on December 7, 2013. Retrieved April 28, 2018.
  22. ↑ "Rhythmic – Week Of: March 10, 2009". Radio & Records. Archived from the original on December 8, 2013. Retrieved May 7, 2019.
  23. ↑ "Urban – Week Of: March 10, 2009". Radio & Records. Archived from the original on December 8, 2013. Retrieved May 7, 2019.
  24. 1 2 3 "Paranoid (Starring Rihanna EP) by Kanye West". Amazon. Retrieved February 4, 2019.
  25. 1 2 3 "Paranoid (New Mix) [feat. Mr Hudson] by Kanye West". Amazon. Retrieved April 29, 2019.
  26. 1 2 "Paranoid (New Mix) [feat. Mr Hudson] von Kanye West" (in Dutch). Amazon. Retrieved April 29, 2019.
  27. ↑ Confusion (December 16, 2008). "Kanye West – Paranoid Remix ft. Big Sean and Mr.Hudson". Complex. Archived from the original on February 9, 2019. Retrieved February 6, 2019.
  28. 1 2 3 4 Uhovski, Valentine (April 23, 2009). "Kanye Gives Rihanna a Comeback!". Fashion Week Daily. Archived from the original on April 26, 2009. Retrieved April 23, 2009.
  29. ↑ "Available for Airplay". FMQB . December 17, 2008. Archived from the original on December 16, 2008. Retrieved May 7, 2019.
  30. ↑ Rabin, Nathan (November 25, 2008). "Kanye West: 808s & Heartbreak". The A.V. Club . Archived from the original on May 15, 2019. Retrieved May 21, 2019.
  31. ↑ Price, Simon (November 23, 2008). "Album: Kanye West, 808s & Heartbreak, (Roc-A-Fella)" . The Independent . Archived from the original on May 25, 2022. Retrieved May 21, 2019.
  32. ↑ Shur, Isaac (November 24, 2018). "Kanye West's '808s & Heartbreak' turns 10". WRBB 104.9 FM. Archived from the original on April 26, 2019. Retrieved May 21, 2019.
  33. ↑ Macpherson, Alex (November 21, 2008). "Kanye West: 808s & Heartbreak". The Guardian . Archived from the original on February 28, 2014. Retrieved May 21, 2019.
  34. ↑ McBee, Wilson (November 24, 2008). "Music Review: Kanye West: 808s & Heartbreak". Slant Magazine . Archived from the original on December 3, 2008. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  35. ↑ "The 100 Best Pop Songs Never to Hit the Hot 100: Staff List". Billboard. October 24, 2023. Archived from the original on October 25, 2023.
  36. ↑ Aaron, Charles (November 25, 2008). "Album Review: Kanye West's '808's and Heartbreak'". Spin . Archived from the original on July 3, 2017. Retrieved May 21, 2019.
  37. 1 2 3 4 Rodriguez, Jayson (May 29, 2009). "Kanye West's 'Paranoid' Video Director Talks Leak, Casting Rihanna". MTV. Archived from the original on May 31, 2009. Retrieved May 30, 2009.
  38. ↑ Frank, Alex (February 24, 2015). "Rihanna and Kanye West Are Going on Tour: Their 7 Best Music Moments". Vogue . Archived from the original on May 18, 2019. Retrieved May 18, 2019.
  39. ↑ Kreps, Daniel (May 21, 2009). "Rihanna Returns in Kanye West's Steamy 'Paranoid' Video" . Rolling Stone. Retrieved June 4, 2019.
  40. 1 2 West, Kanye (May 28, 2009). "Paranoid". Kanye West Blog. Archived from the original on May 31, 2009. Retrieved May 28, 2009.
  41. ↑ Rodriguez, Jayson (June 3, 2009). "Kanye West Posts 'Paranoid' Video, Starring Rihanna, On His Blog". MTV. Archived from the original on October 3, 2018. Retrieved October 30, 2018.
  42. ↑ West, Kanye (June 3, 2009). "Kanye West 'Paranoid' feat. Rihanna Dir: Nabil". Kanye West Blog. Archived from the original on June 7, 2009. Retrieved June 3, 2009.
  43. ↑ Rodriguez, Jayson (February 24, 2010). "Kanye West Didn't Want To Be In 'Coldest Winter' Video". MTV. Archived from the original on October 2, 2018. Retrieved October 30, 2018.
  44. ↑ Shamz (2009). "Video: Kanye West 'Paranoid' feat. Mr. Hudson [Final Version]". Okayplayer. Archived from the original on June 4, 2019. Retrieved June 4, 2019.
  45. ↑ Newman-Bremang, Kathleen (June 4, 2009). "Kanye West, Jonas Brothers, Radiohead – Who Made The Best 'Paranoid' Video?". MTV. Archived from the original on June 4, 2019. Retrieved June 4, 2019.
  46. ↑ Anital, Tamar (August 4, 2009). "VMAs 2009: The Nominations Have Been Announced". MTV. Archived from the original on September 28, 2017. Retrieved February 3, 2019.
  47. ↑ "2009 MTV Video Music Awards Winners". MTV. Archived from the original on January 8, 2010. Retrieved February 3, 2019.
  48. ↑ "Pop Music: Top Pop Songs Chart – April 25, 2009". Billboard. Archived from the original on February 9, 2019. Retrieved February 6, 2019.
  49. ↑ "Pop Music: Top Pop Songs Chart – May 2, 2009". Billboard. Archived from the original on March 29, 2018. Retrieved May 28, 2019.
  50. ↑ "Kanye West – Paranoid – Chart History". Billboard. Archived from the original on February 9, 2019. Retrieved February 6, 2019.
  51. ↑ "Top Rhythmic Songs Chart – May 9, 2009". Billboard. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  52. 1 2 "Kanye West Chart History (Rhythmic)". Billboard. Retrieved December 28, 2014.
  53. 1 2 "Kanye West Chart History (Bubbling Under Hot 100)". Billboard. Retrieved December 28, 2014.
  54. 1 2 "American single certifications – Kanye West – Paranoid". Recording Industry Association of America . Retrieved February 17, 2021.
  55. 1 2 "Australia Singles Chart ~ Issue #1012" (PDF). Pandora. Archived (PDF) from the original on January 26, 2016. Retrieved July 20, 2009.
  56. ↑ "Australia Singles Chart ~ Issue #1013" (PDF). Pandora. Archived from the original (PDF) on August 4, 2009. Retrieved May 12, 2019.
  57. 1 2 "Kanye West feat. Mr Hudson – Paranoid" (in French). Ultratip. Retrieved December 28, 2014.
  58. 1 2 "Kanye West feat. Mr Hudson – Paranoid" (in Dutch). Ultratip. Retrieved December 28, 2014.
  59. 1 2 3 Montgomery, James (December 14, 2009). "Kanye West VH1 'Storytellers' CD/DVD Hits Stores In January". MTV. Archived from the original on April 2, 2019. Retrieved May 27, 2019.
  60. ↑ "Kanye West – VH1 Storytellers". dutchcharts.nl. 2010. Archived from the original on October 16, 2017. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  61. ↑ Dot, B. (January 4, 2010). "Kanye West 'Paranoid' x 'Homecoming' (VH1)". Rap Radar . Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  62. 1 2 Weingarten, Christopher (March 22, 2009). "Kanye West Shows Off Proteges at SXSW Set Featuring Common, Erykah Badu". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on March 23, 2009. Retrieved March 22, 2009.
  63. ↑ "Kanye West Closes Wireless Festival With Crystal-themed Show". NME. July 6, 2009. Archived from the original on July 9, 2009. Retrieved July 6, 2009.
  64. 1 2 "Kanye West joins Mr Hudson onstage at London iTunes gig". NME. July 8, 2009. Archived from the original on July 11, 2017. Retrieved April 28, 2021.
  65. ↑ "Kanye West – 'Paranoid' (Live @ iTunes Festival) (video)". PopMatters. July 20, 2009. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  66. 1 2 Hendicott, James (September 26, 2015). "Kanye West performs 808s & Heartbreak in full for the first time – watch". NME. Archived from the original on September 27, 2018. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  67. 1 2 Trammell, Matthew; Nocito, Jason (September 26, 2015). "Kanye West's 808s & Heartbreak Live Show Is Proof Fam' Can't Kill Him". The Fader. Archived from the original on July 23, 2019. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  68. 1 2 Caramanica, Jon (September 28, 2015). "Review: Kanye West Shines Light on His Darkest Hour". The New York Times. Archived from the original on November 8, 2020. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  69. ↑ Ali, Lorranie (September 26, 2015). "Review: Can we talk about Kanye West's uncharacteristically endearing '808s' show at the Hollywood Bowl?". Los Angeles Times . Archived from the original on October 12, 2020. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  70. ↑ Appleford, Steve (September 26, 2015). "Kanye West Turns '808s & Heartbreak' Into High Art at Hollywood Bowl" . Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on April 10, 2019. Retrieved May 27, 2019.
  71. 1 2 Roth, Madeline (September 27, 2015). "I Saw Kanye West Perform 808s Live And The Only Heartbreak Is That It's Over". MTV. Archived from the original on April 14, 2021. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  72. ↑ Krol, Charlotte (November 12, 2018). "Kanye West and Kid Cudi perform from suspended glass box in first public show as Kids See Ghosts". NME. Archived from the original on May 8, 2020. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  73. ↑ Young, Alex (November 12, 2018). "Kanye and Kid Cudi Make Live Debut as Kids See Ghosts: Video+ Setlist". Consequence . Archived from the original on November 12, 2018. Retrieved May 27, 2019.
  74. ↑ Pitt, Drew (November 13, 2018). "Camp Flog Gnaw 2018 Day Two Featuring Lauryn Hill, Earl Sweatshirt and Kids See Ghosts". mxdwn Music. Archived from the original on February 3, 2021. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  75. ↑ Ju, Shirley (November 13, 2018). "Kids See Ghosts Were the Stars of Tyler, the Creator's 2018 Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival [Recap]". Okayplayer. Archived from the original on September 23, 2020. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  76. 1 2 Hughes, Josiah (October 20, 2010). "The Suzan 'Paranoid' (Kanye West cover)". Exclaim! . Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  77. 1 2 Zeichner, Naomi (October 19, 2010). "The Suzan, 'Paranoid' (Kanye West Cover) MP3". The Fader. Archived from the original on May 14, 2019. Retrieved May 14, 2019.
  78. 1 2 3 Chou, Kimberley (October 28, 2010). "Japanese Girl Group The Suzan on Being Interrupted by Kanye West" . The Wall Street Journal . Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  79. 1 2 3 Helman, Peter (July 11, 2018). "Kali Uchis Covers Kanye West's 'Paranoid'". Stereogum . Archived from the original on April 30, 2019. Retrieved April 30, 2019.
  80. 1 2 3 Cowen, Trace William (July 11, 2018). "Kali Uchis Puts Her Spin on Classic Kanye West Song 'Paranoid'". Complex. Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  81. ↑ Oh, Lindsey (July 15, 2018). "Kali Uchis delivers her sultry cover of Kayne West's 'Paranoid' on BBC Radio 1". Dancing Astronaut . Retrieved July 15, 2021.
  82. ↑ "Bryson Tiller / Bryson Tiller". Tidal . Retrieved May 23, 2019.
  83. ↑ "Kanye West Chart History (Pop Songs)". Billboard. Retrieved December 26, 2014.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article
Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply.
Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.