Vultures 1 is the first collaborative album by Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign, who go by the name ¥$. It was released independently through Kanye’s YZY brand on February 10, 2024.
The album features guest appearances from artists like Kanye’s daughter North, Freddie Gibbs, Quavo, Travis Scott and others. Kanye and several producers like Timbaland, No I.D. and others worked on the production.
Kanye and Ty Dolla $ign started recording the album together in Italy in October 2023, then later moved to Saudi Arabia for three months to continue working on it. The album’s release was delayed multiple times before finally coming out, partly due to issues securing distribution.
Originally it was just going to be called ¥$ or Vultures, but ended up being titled Vultures 1 as the first of a planned album trilogy from the duo.
The album has Kanye moving away from the religious themes of his last two albums and more addressing controversies, money, relationships and fame. The explicit lyrics also mark a return to that for Kanye after censoring on his past couple projects.
Despite some mixed reviews critiquing the lyrics and originality, Vultures 1 debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart, breaking Kanye’s tie with Eminem for most #1 album debuts.
VULTURES 1 Tracklist & Features
- Stars
- Keys To My Life
- PAID
- Talking (ft. North West)
- Back To Me (ft. Freddie Gibbs)
- HOODRAT
- Do It (ft. YG)
- Paperwork (ft. Quavo)
- BURN
- FUK SUMN (ft. Playboi Carti & Travis Scott)
- VULTURES (ft. Bump J & Lil Durk)
- Carnival (ft. Rich The Kid & Playboi Carti)
- Beg Forgiveness (ft. Chris Brown)
- GOOD (Don’t Die)
- PROBLEMATIC
- KING
The album kicks off with “Stars,” a track where Kanye West’s singing vocals set a positive tone. Following this is “Keys to My Life,” a song characterized by raw vocals and heartfelt lyrics, possibly drawing from personal experiences. “Paid” stands out with Ty Dolla $ign taking the lead, delivering a catchy chorus that explores themes of capitalism.
Additionally, “Talking” features North West and incorporates contributions from artists like Cydel Young and James Litherland, adding depth and variety to the album’s sound. These tracks exemplify the range of styles and collaborations found within VULTURES 1, showcasing the creative synergy between Kanye West, Ty Dolla $ign, and their featured artists.
Two more volumes titled Vultures 2 and Vultures 3 are scheduled to follow this year, with a world tour from the duo also planned after that.