Kanye West has split from his fiancee.

The 'Stronger' rapper and Alexis Phifer - who got engaged in 2006 while holidaying in Italy - have decided to end their relationship but insist the break-up was amicable.

Alexis, who began dating Kanye in 2002, told Us Weekly magazine: "It's been hard and not been an easy time. I tried to keep things private but yes, it's sad when things end like this and we truly do remain friends. I wish him the best in his future and in all of his endeavours. He's one of the most talented people I've ever met, that's for sure."

Sources say Kanye - who briefly split from Alexis in 2004 - is too busy with his current world tour and music career to have any time for romance.

One said: "Kanye is possessed by the tour and everything going on and just couldn't keep it going. They are still friends and have broken up and gotten back together before, so it could work out."

Last year, Kanye revealed he was looking forward to marrying Alexis but insisted he wouldn't have a big wedding.

He said: "I'm just going to go and get married. I'm not going to make a big deal out of it."

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