Kanye West is Set to Release 'Graduation' in August

Kanye West does everything big. His third album, 'Graduation,' wont be released until late August but the hype is beginning to build. He has already released the first video and has given tastes of a couple of other songs. The stars are beginning to align and the fall of 2007 may belong to Kanye West, just as the fall of 2005 did.

Kanye's star has risen since 2005's 'Late Registration.' Most of that is due to the fact that the album was so well received; the second single from the album, 'Gold Digger,' has become one of the biggest hip-hop hits ever. But a lot of Kanye's recent surge in fame is because of his antics. He ridiculed George Bush during an appearance at a hurricane relief telethon, he begged for a Grammy, and he threw a temper tantrum at the MTV Europe Awards. Kanye West knows how to create a buzz.

He's using that knowledge to make hip-hop fans salivate in anticipation of his new album. A few weeks ago, Kanye released a video for his new single, 'Can't Tell Me Nothing.' He called on all-star video producer, Hype Williams, to direct the video. The clip places all of the attention on the rapper, just as Kanye likes it. "I had a dream I could buy my way to heaven, when I woke up I spent that on a necklace," Kanye raps in the opening line of the song.

Further adding to the album's buzz, a sample of his new song 'Stronger,' found it's way on the DJ mix tape circuit. 'Stronger,' is a song that is more telling of Kanye's state of mind. "That that don't kill me, can only make me stronger," Kanye proclaims over an up-tempo beat; while later asking listeners to "bow in the presence of greatness."

Perhaps the most intriguing sneak peek that Kanye has given of his new album is his collaboration with John Mayer. Yes, Kanye West and John Mayer have gotten together on a track. "Bittersweet, you're gonna be the death of me. I don't want you, but I need you. I love you and hate you at the very same time," Mayer sings in the chorus. As odd as the pairing may seem, it actually works. A video clip of Mayer and West in the studio working on this song has become a favorite on YouTube.

The album is also set to feature many guest appearances and producers. It has only been two years since Kanye West's last album, but the anticipation of 'Graduation' is building rapidly. When the album finally arrives in August, the lines in record stores are sure to be long. Just like a 'Graduation' ceremony should be.