Kanye West, Taylor Swift. Singer Kanye West takes the microphone from singer Taylor Swift as she accepts the "Best Female Video" award during the MTV Video Music Awards on in New YorkMTV Video Music Awards Show, New York, USA - 13 Sep 2009

Kanye West stormed onto the stage after Taylor Swift’s win for Best Female Video at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, igniting a feud that would span over a decade. His interruption, declaring Beyoncé should have won, sparked immediate backlash. Despite an apology from West and a seeming reconciliation, their rivalry persisted, inspiring songs from both artists. Swift’s album “Reputation” notably addresses their tumultuous history.

Getty Images Kanye West grabs mic from Taylor Swift

The feud began when West grabbed the microphone from Swift during her acceptance speech, insisting Beyoncé deserved the award. This incident drew widespread criticism, with even then-President Barack Obama calling West’s actions inappropriate. Despite West’s tearful apology on “The Tonight Show,” tensions remained.

In subsequent years, the feud escalated, with Swift releasing songs like “Innocent” and West referencing her in his lyrics. Their interactions at award shows, including a full-circle moment at the 2015 VMAs, kept their feud in the public eye.

The drama reached new heights in 2016 when West’s song “Famous” contained controversial lyrics about Swift. Kardashian later released videos seemingly showing Swift approving the song, leading to a public fallout. Swift’s album “Reputation” directly addresses these events.

In 2019, Swift confronted West’s role in her ongoing battles, including his involvement in the sale of her masters. Despite attempts at reconciliation, Swift expressed disillusionment with West’s actions.

The release of a leaked phone call in 2020 reignited the feud, with Swift addressing the situation on social media. References to the feud continue in Swift’s subsequent albums, reflecting on the toll it took on her mental health and personal life.

Even in 2024, with the release of Swift’s “The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology” album, fans speculate on references to her feud with West. The song “Cassandra” alludes to the disbelief Swift faced during the 2016 phone call controversy.

Throughout the years, Swift and West’s feud has captivated the public, serving as inspiration for music and highlighting the complexities of celebrity conflicts.