US rapper Kanye West says he deeply appeciates the 10 years of love and support he's received from his fans.
The rapper's debut album The College Dropout was released a decade ago to huge critical acclaim.
According to West, the record would never have been made without the help of many friends and colleagues.
"Ten years ago today we finally released what had been my life's work up to that point: The College Dropout," he tweeted.
"I say 'finally' because it was a long road, a constant struggle, and a true labour of love to not only convince my peers and the public that I could be an artist, but to actually get that art out for the world to hear.
"I am extremely grateful to each and every person along that road who helped, lent an ear, lent their voice, gave of their heart to that project, and to all the projects that followed, and are to come."
The 36-year-old went on to say he deeply appreciated the way his fans have always stuck with him through thick and thin. The musician says that inside he will always be "the same kid from Chicago".
"I am honoured and humbled by my fans, for the unwavering support and love over the past 10 years," he continued.
"I wake up every day trying to give something back to you that you can rock to and be proud of. Ten years later I am still the same kid from Chicago, still dreaming out loud, still banging on the door. The doors may be heavier, but I promise you: we will break them."
