Wale Biography

Wale is an American rapper that became popular as a local sensation after which he managed to gain national recognition.

Early Life

Olubowale Victor Akintimehin was born in Washington, D.C on  September 21, 1984. Son of immigrant Nigerian parents, Wale started out with the release of Rhyme of the Century as his first track to be played on the radio.

Local Success

His debut single landed him a record deal with the local label Studio 43. Wale sampled a lot of 80’s go-go and disco inspired sounds. He used the internet to promote his music, and as a result, he got noticed by major record producer and DJ, Mark Ronson. After being signed to Ronson’s own imprint, Wale was able to release the mixtape 100 Miles and Running in 2007.

National Success

Although he was not that well known he was given good press from publications like The New York Times. Labels threw offers at him, but Wale eventually picked Interscope for a 1.3 million dollar deal. His debut LP Attention Deficit was released in 2009. The 2011 Ambition album was next and then the 2013 The Gifted, introduced by the remix collaboration Bad with Rihanna. The album was met with a number 1 debut on Billboard 200 and positive reviews. The Album About Nothing revealed 2015, topped the charts as well, featuring Usher, Jeremih as guests and Jerry Seinfeld as narrator. The LP Shine spawned the single Running Back, entering the Top 40 R&B/hip-hop chart.

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