Kanye West – Graduation
2007 ~ Roc-A-Fella Records
It’s only right that the man who once proclaimed himself as the “Louis Vuitton Don” would have one of the most unique and eclectic album covers in the game. For Graduation Mr. West hooked up with famous Japanese artist Takashi Murakami to do the cover artwork. Again, my nerdy sensibilities and love of anime propelled this one onto my list.
However, the main reason I like this cover is because it was so different from its competition. Remember, at the time Yeezy was going face to face with then Hip-Hop Heavyweight 50 Cent, who released his album Curtis on the same day. While 50 went the traditional route with just a cover with his face in black and white looking menancing, Kanye did something fresh and different. Maybe it helped play a role in Kanye winning the first day sales battle.