Watch a Young Kanye West Perform ‘Gold Digger’ in 2003
YouTube
Every once in a while, the Internet delivers a video gem that is both nostalgic and fun. A rare clip has surfaced online of a very young Kanye West performing lyrics that would later become “Gold Digger” from his classic 2005 album, Late Registration.
The video was shot back in 2003 just prior to West releasing his classic debut album, College Dropout in 2004. The then-upstart rapper made a brief appearance at the 2nd Annual Dynamic Producer Conference (hmmm, “dynamic producer” how foretelling) in New York.
In the clip, you can see that ‘Ye was in his backpacker mode wearing a Louis Vuitton backpack, a Reese’s Pieces T-shirt and a snapback. West then tells a very young John Legend on piano to play the chords to a new song he called “18 Years.”
Although the Ray Charles “I Got a Woman” sample and the radio-friendly hook is nowhere to be found, you should be able recognize the lyrics to what eventually would become “Gold Digger.”
“She was supposed to buy your shorty Tyco with your money / She went to the doctor got lipo with your money / She walking around looking like Michael with your money / You should’ve got that insured, Geico for your money,” he raps.
After watching the video, it’s clear that West was a rap star in the making. This is also a reminder for struggling rappers that if you continue to grind and pursue your dreams you too could become one of the most polarizing figures in hip-hop and maybe snag a Kardashian.
Watch a young Kanye West perform his now classic song below.
[Spotted at Noisey]
More from Kardashian Dish
- Kim Kardashian to star in new Hulu legal drama created by Ryan Murphy
- Kim Kardashian gave Paris Hilton a gorgeous gift for Baby London
- Kris Jenner thought she was “Punk’d” by Kourtney Kardashian’s baby reveal
- Kris Jenner gets in the holiday spirit with Elf On The Shelf
- The Kardashians fans ultimate holiday gift guide for 2023