Kanye West’s “DONDA 2”: From Stem Player Exclusive to Streaming Chaos – Will It Stick Around?

Kanye West has once again stirred the pot with the re-release of "DONDA 2" on streaming platforms, years after its initial exclusive release on the Stem Player. But amidst the excitement, controversy and potential legal battles threaten its very existence. Let's dive into the whirlwind surrounding this album's journey.

DJ Akademiks, a prominent figure in the hip-hop community, has been closely following the "DONDA 2" saga. He even predicted surprising first-week sales numbers for the album, estimating around 10,000 units sold. He attributes this to the album's unconventional Tuesday release and Kanye's controversial image, while still calling it impressive given the context. He also doubts its chart eligibility due to Billboard’s strict rules.

The drama doesn't end there. Just hours after the streaming release, Kanye West claimed his former manager, Free Maiden, threatened to pull the album. The reason? Unauthorized tracks. According to Maiden, West owes millions to producers Jahmal "Boogz Da Beast" Gwin and Brian "AllDay" Miller for their work on eight songs. West alleges they're asking for $3 million for the beats, a sum he's unwilling to pay because he believes he taught them how to create beats in the first place.

Reviews have been mixed, with some criticizing the album's incomplete feeling and reliance on "mumble" vocals. One reviewer described it as rehashed and redundant. Despite the criticisms, moments of brilliance and raw honesty shine through, particularly on the track "Happy," where West's vulnerability cuts through the bravado, questioning, “Do I look happy to you?”

Originally branded as a work in progress with a "V2.22.22 Miami" tag, the streaming release features minor tweaks and additions. However, it carries the weight of loss – Kanye's divorce, his children, and the passing of his friend Virgil Abloh. This theme of grief permeates the album, even manifesting in incoherent thoughts and unfinished verses.

Will "DONDA 2" remain on streaming services? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: this album's journey is as chaotic and unpredictable as Kanye West himself. What are your thoughts on "DONDA 2"? Share your opinions in the comments below!

• DJ Akademiks
• DONDA 2
• Kanye West

Related issues news

Did Kanye drop Donda 2?

Donda 2 is the eleventh studio album by the American rapper Kanye West. It was released in an unfinished state, with four songs, on Kano Computing's Stem Player on February 23, 2022; additional songs were added in updates.

What was Donda 2 released on?

Now, the album is available on mainstream streaming services such as Apple, Amazon, Tidal and Spotify. Many of the songs on the 2025 version are on the original version. Ye's 'Donda 2' album to be released on his Stem Player streaming platform, livestream in IMAX theaters Need a break?