Kanye West is a global music icon, celebrated for his groundbreaking albums and influential fashion ventures. Alongside his career, his romantic relationships have often captured as much attention as his music. From his early days with his high school sweetheart to his whirlwind relationships with models and actresses, Kanye’s dating history is a journey through love, heartbreak, and controversy.
Here’s a detailed look at Kanye West’s romantic relationships over the years.
Sumeke Rainey: Kanye’s High School Sweetheart
Before Kanye became a household name, he was in a relationship with his high school sweetheart, Sumeke Rainey. Their love story remained largely private, but Kanye referenced her on his debut album, The College Dropout (2004). On the track “Never Let Me Down,” he rapped about a promise he made to her late father: “So I promised to Mr. Rainey I’m gonna marry your daughter.”
Unfortunately, their relationship ended as Kanye’s career skyrocketed, pushing him into a world of fame and opportunities far removed from their quiet beginnings.
Alexis Phifer: The Designer Love Story
Kanye started dating fashion designer Alexis Phifer in 2002. Their relationship faced challenges as Kanye’s career took off, but they reunited, and in 2006, Kanye proposed during a romantic trip to Capri. For a time, it seemed like the couple was destined for a fairy-tale ending.
However, their engagement ended in 2008, following the tragic passing of Kanye’s mother, Donda West. The split was amicable, with Alexis telling PEOPLE: “It’s always sad when things like this end. I wish him the best in his future and all of his endeavors.”
Brooke Crittendon: A Brief Romance
During a brief split from Alexis, Kanye dated MTV employee Brooke Crittendon in 2006. The two attended events like the Grammy Awards together, but their relationship didn’t last long. Brooke later opened up about the pressure of dating Kanye, saying: “I had to live in the shadow of ‘that’s Kanye’s ex-girl.’” Despite the breakup, she maintained that their split was on good terms.
Amber Rose: The Power Couple of the Late 2000s
Kanye’s relationship with model Amber Rose marked a new chapter in his love life. The two began dating in 2008, becoming one of the most talked-about couples of the era. Amber accompanied Kanye during his 808s & Heartbreak and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy periods, with their dramatic breakup inspiring much of the latter album.
Amber later revealed the emotional toll their relationship took on her, saying: “The only thing I got from him was fame. That time was not a great time for me.” Despite the heartbreak, she acknowledged the cultural impact of Kanye’s music during their time together.
Kim Kardashian: A Love Story for the Ages
Kanye’s most high-profile relationship began with Kim Kardashian. The two had been friends for years, but their romance officially started in 2012 after Kim’s short-lived marriage to Kris Humphries ended. That same year, they announced they were expecting their first child, North, who was born in June 2013.
In October 2013, Kanye proposed with an elaborate gesture at San Francisco’s AT&T Park, and the couple married in 2014 in a lavish ceremony in Florence, Italy. Over the years, they welcomed three more children: Saint, Chicago, and Psalm.
Their relationship, however, wasn’t without challenges. Kanye’s public struggles with mental health and controversial statements strained their marriage, leading Kim to file for divorce in February 2021. Despite their split, the couple has worked together to co-parent their children.
Irina Shayk: A Brief Rebound
In 2021, months after his divorce filing, Kanye was linked to model Irina Shayk. The pair was spotted celebrating Kanye’s 44th birthday in France, sparking dating rumors. Though their relationship seemed promising, sources confirmed in August 2021 that they had split. Irina had previously worked with Kanye as a model for Yeezy and appeared in his 2010 music video for “Power.”
Julia Fox: A Whirlwind Romance
Kanye began dating actress Julia Fox in late 2021 after meeting her on New Year’s Eve in Miami. Their relationship was fast-paced and extravagant, with Julia describing it as feeling like a movie. However, by Valentine’s Day 2022, the couple had parted ways.
Julia later revealed that Kanye had unresolved personal issues that she wasn’t equipped to handle. She told ES Magazine: “I don’t have the bandwidth or emotional capacity for it.”
Chaney Jones: The Yeezy Connection
Shortly after splitting from Julia Fox, Kanye started dating model Chaney Jones, who was often compared to Kim Kardashian for her striking resemblance. The two dated for five months, traveling together and making public appearances, including sitting courtside at Lakers games. Their relationship ended in June 2022 after a trip to Japan.
Bianca Censori: A New Beginning
Kanye’s most recent relationship is with Australian architect Bianca Censori, who has worked as an architectural designer for Yeezy since 2020. The two were first linked in late 2022, with Kanye reportedly naming a song after her, “Censori Overload.”
In January 2023, rumors surfaced that the couple had secretly wed in a private ceremony, though they haven’t filed an official marriage certificate. Bianca has since been a prominent figure in Kanye’s life, with the two frequently appearing together in public and on his social media.
Reflections on Kanye’s Relationships
Kanye West’s dating history is as multifaceted as his career. From high school romances to high-profile marriages, each relationship has played a role in shaping the man behind the music. While some have ended in heartbreak and controversy, they’ve also inspired some of Kanye’s most iconic work.
As Kanye continues to evolve both personally and professionally, his relationships remain a topic of fascination, showcasing the complexities of love, fame, and individuality. Whether with Bianca Censori or someone else in the future, Kanye’s journey through love is sure to keep making headlines.