Kanye West credits MJ for his career

Kanye West has revealed that it was Michael Jackson, who broke down the barriers for black artists in the music industry.

West said in a Radio1 interview that he would not have had a career if it wasn't for the 'Thriller' hitmaker, the BBC reported.

The 36-year-old musician said that Jackson had to fight to get his video played because he was black.

West said that for him, his life and creativity has been very challenging.

He said that he was able to ascend to heights because of the foundation that his mother, father and grandfather laid through civil rights.

West thanked Jay Z and said that he wouldn't have made it without him watching his back as a big brother.