Who Is Wale? The DMV Rapper's Biography, Career, and Biggest Hit Singles

Wale, born Olubowale Victor Akintimehin on September 21, 1984, in Washington, D.C., is a Nigerian-American rapper renowned for blending go-go influences with sharp lyricism, introspective storytelling, and melodic hooks. Nicknamed the "Ambassador of Rap for the Capitol," Wale rose from local DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) fame to mainstream success, delivering thoughtful bars on love, ambition, identity, and culture. With eight studio albums, multiple platinum hits, and a loyal fanbase, he's proven his longevity in hip-hop since the mid-2000s.

Who Is Wale?

Early Life and Breakthrough (2005–2009)

Raised by Nigerian immigrant parents in D.C., Wale briefly played college football before pursuing music full-time. He gained local buzz with his 2006 track "Dig Dug (Shake It)," a go-go-infused banger that exploded in the DMV area. Early mixtapes like Paint a Picture (2005), Hate Is the New Love (2006), and 100 Miles & Running (2007) showcased his wit and versatility. Discovered by Mark Ronson, he signed to Allido Records and released his debut album Attention Deficit (2009) via Interscope. Featuring the hit "Chillin'" (with Lady Gaga) and "Pretty Girls," it earned critical praise despite modest sales.

Mainstream Rise with Maybach Music Group (2011–2018)

In 2011, Wale joined Rick Ross' Maybach Music Group (MMG), marking his commercial peak. Ambition (2011) debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 with singles like "That Way" (ft. Jeremih & Rick Ross) and "Lotus Flower Bomb" (ft. Miguel)—a platinum slow jam. The Gifted (2013) hit No. 1, featuring "Bad" (ft. Tiara Thomas, later remixed with Rihanna for massive success). The Album About Nothing (2015) topped charts with "The Matrimony" (ft. Usher) and "The Need to Know" (ft. SZA). Later projects included Shine (2017) and Wow... That's Crazy (2019), plus hits like "My PYT" (2016) and "On Chill" (ft. Jeremih, 2019).

Recent Years and 2025–2026 Era - Who Is Wale?

After Folarin II (2021), Wale signed with Def Jam and returned strong with his eighth studio album everything is a lot. (released November 14, 2025). The deeply personal 18-track project features guests like Leon Thomas, Ty Dolla $ign, Shaboozey, and Smino, blending emotional depth with inventive production. It peaked high on rap charts and earned acclaim for its vulnerability.

In 2026, Wale is touring in support: the Everything Is A Lot. The Tour with special guest Smino. The 22-date North American run kicks off May 26 in San Francisco (The Warfield) and hits major cities like Los Angeles, Denver, Austin, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Orlando, Brooklyn, Detroit, Chicago, Washington D.C. (Plaza Stage at Nationals Park on June 20), and more, wrapping July 2 in Minneapolis. International dates include London (March 27 at KOKO).

Biggest Hit Singles Over the Years

Wale's catalog boasts timeless tracks—here are some of his biggest hits by impact, charts, and streams:

• Bad (ft. Tiara Thomas, 2013; Rihanna remix boosted it) – Platinum, iconic slow-burn anthem.

• Lotus Flower Bomb (ft. Miguel, 2011) – Platinum, seductive R&B-rap staple.

• No Hands (ft. Roscoe Dash & Waka Flocka Flame, 2010) – Diamond-certified club banger.

• On Chill (ft. Jeremih, 2019) – Smooth hit with massive replay value.

• That Way (ft. Jeremih & Rick Ross, 2011) – High-charting MMG collab.

• The Matrimony (ft. Usher, 2015) – Platinum romantic ballad.

• My PYT (2016) – Catchy, feel-good single.

• Chillin' (ft. Lady Gaga, 2009) – Breakthrough mainstream crossover.

  
  

Legacy and Why Wale Matters

From mixtape king to chart-topper, Wale's career highlights lyrical prowess, cultural pride, and independence. He's sold millions, earned Grammy nods, and influenced the melodic rap wave.

Catch Wale live on the Everything Is A Lot. The Tour—grab your Wale 2026 concert tickets now at CapitalCityTickets.com! Secure seats for all dates, check presales, VIP options, and updates. Don't miss this must-see hip-hop experience!