Wale was born to Nigerian immigrant parents in Washington, DC. He grew up on Peabody Street in Northwest DC and moved to Largo, Maryland as a teenager. He attended seven different high schools in Washington, D.C. and Maryland, finally graduating from Quince Orchard High School in 2001. He went to Robert Morris College and Virginia State University on football scholarships, and then Bowie State University but dropped out in 2004 to pursue music full-time. Before music started paying the bills, Wale worked day jobs at Sprint, Up Against The Wall and Downtown Locker Room.
Wale emerged onto the local DC hip hop scene with the help of WKYS-FM's DJ Alizay. Wale began getting radio play in 2004 with a single called "Rhyme of the Century" which got Wale in the June 2005 "Unsigned Hype" section of Source magazine and his buzz started growing.
In November 2006, a feature ran on AllHipHop.com's Breeding Ground about Wale. The day before Thanksgiving, Wale took the stage between Lil Wayne and T.I. during the Southern Invasion tour at the Verizon Center.
In early December 2006, Wale won the award for "D.C. Metro Breakthrough Artist of the Year" at WKYS' Go-Go Awards. On December 15, The Fader magazine associate editor Nick "Catchdubs" Barat visited Wale for an interview and photo shoot which appeared in the March 2007 issue of The Fader.
Wale has an upcoming promotional campaign with Remy Martin and XXL Magazine. He has also been linked to boutique streetwear brands The Hundreds, 10 Deep and Good Bully, as well as lifestyle brands Stussy and LRG.
In January 2007, Wale released a new single to radio called "Good Girls." Daniel Weisman gave the song to Mark Ronson and on February 23, 2007, Ronson began playing the song on his East Village Radio show. A week later, at Ronson's studio, Wale recorded a freestyle for Ronson and in exchange, Ronson put Wale on an unreleased remix of Lily Allen's "Smile" which appeared on a number of music blogs around the world on March 13th, 2007. In April of 2007, Ronson asked Wale to join him on a UK tour to promote the release of his newest album. In June of 2007, Wale signed to a production deal with Ronson's Allido Records.
On June 24, 2007, Wale's "Ice Cream Girl" with TCB, was featured on the show Entourage, on HBO.
Wale performed "W.A.L.E.D.A.N.C.E.", from his 100 Miles mixtape, at the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards in Las Vegas, NV.
Wale was also featured in the October 2007 issues of XXL and Rolling Stone. The Washington Post profiled Wale on the front page of the Sunday Style section in the October 21st, 2007 edition. Wale is featured on the cover of URB Magazine's 150th issue along with French electro group, Justice.
iTunes released "Nike Boots" as a free download on November 13th, 2007 as its "Single of the Week." On Christmas Day 2007, Wale debuted the "Nike Boots Remix" featuring Lil Wayne and Green Lantern on his myspace page. Wale and Lil Wayne played a Nike Boots event called DC Stand Up at Ibiza Nightclub in DC on January 15, 2008 which was sponsored by Nike and Footaction.
In the November 30th, 2007 issue of Entertainment Weekly, Wale is featured as one of 8 people to watch in 2008 along with actors Simon Pegg and Rachel McAdams.
On March 12, 2008, Wale announced on 93.9 WKYS that he had signed with Interscope.
On April 29, 2008, the new Roots album entitled Rising Down was released, featuring Wale on the final track. Wale's relationship with the Roots began when Black Thought heard a song recorded as a tribute to himself on Wale's 2007 mixtape 100 Miles & Running and contacted Wale.
In the June issue of the German Hip-Hop magazine JUICE Wale announced that his upcoming debut-album will feature production credits from Mark Ronson, Kanye West, Just Blaze, 9th Wonder and the French electronic music duo Justice.
http://www.myspace.com/wale202
New Balances
Wale Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Folarin II, yeah
We still in a motherfuckin' pandemic, nigga
Look
They ain't want me here, fuck it, I'm back though
And I'm with so many, so many rap flow
Toe-to-toe with the mic, I am Mike like
It's a hole in my heart from my last ho
It's a hole in her wallet right after
Every lyric I wrote is her caption
When we broke up she posted her CashApp, yeah
She could've hit me for it (pussy)
Sweet like Pepsi Cola
Look, I play but I'm not no toy
She need flavor, I'm no LaCroix
IRS keep callin', count my racks I don't record it, mm
Fame ain't like you know, pay these taxes and these lawyers, yeah
Nigga, this Prada from '26, designer for money is somethin' else
Phylicia Rashad is a lucky woman, it's all workin' with the funny bills
Authentic, never counterfeit, count it up 'til it's calluses
OG's flippin' old money, same old city, new balances
It's like the city always been like a trap
We might be divided and lost and everything
But we come together like a, like a iron had, and all over, right?
The main idea is to stop killin' each other, man, and come together (yeah)
They don't like it, but fuck it, I'm back
Cookies and bag, I got no time to be mad
I got no time to be tied up in feelings
I gotta re-up, you gotta relax
I gotta be classy
I've been distant, I've been chillin' don't ask me
How I'm feelin', I'm as good as I'm gon' be
Check your senses, niggas won't even see me
Tryna be noisy
And really be one deep
And really get no sleep
And it really be women that tell me they need me but don't even know me
But shit can get O.D
So I'm lookin' at the game funny, like I'm in a nosebleed
I'm a leader, a man
You trick with bitches that'll feed me in bed
It's different, nigga, I can speak to their soul
The pussy wetter when it ain't for a bag
But how would you know?
We stuck to the code
I ain't switchin', I be good when it's slow
They don't hit me when the numbers is low
You makin' hit, a nigga smother your phone, and try big bro you
Hol' up, I'm in Miami, the toes out
Shout out to Zoey, the Zoes out
Bam Adebayo on courtside
Bag on me, I'm really Yoruba
I'm really royalty, I'm of important
Free agent, I rock what I want, right
Salehe, he just got me the orange ones, uh, yeah
Authentic, never counterfeit
When it's God-given and you elevated
All these Satan niggas want you down with them, yeah, yeah
Pray for 'em, they embarassin'
I stayed loyal like I owe runners
OG checks, new balances, yeah, mm
New balances
Same old city, new balances, yeah
New balances
Way more checks, new balances, yeah
(?), haha
Oh, I'm tellin' you dressed very nice
(?)
They want to compare everybody with everybody
I don't care what anybody say you are, you are still above the game
In the song "New Balances" by Wale, the artist reflects on various aspects of his life and career, as well as societal issues. The lyrics are divided into four paragraphs for analysis.
In the first paragraph, Wale begins by questioning the binary distinctions of good or bad, right or wrong, suggesting an underlying theme of moral ambiguity and complexity. He then asserts his return and resilience despite potential opposition, expressing his confidence in his rap skills. Referring to himself as "Mike" alludes to the legendary boxer Mike Tyson, emphasizing his prowess on the mic. Wale metaphorically compares his detractors to Glass Joe, a weak character from the video game "Punch-Out!!", emphasizing their inferiority. He mentions the pain caused by a past relationship and how the woman publicly flaunts her newfound financial independence through social media. He playfully acknowledges that she could have asked him directly for financial support if she needed it. Wale compares her sweetness to Pepsi Cola, further emphasizing her allure. He asserts his worth by stating that he is not a toy to be played with and implies that other men lack substance. Wale then mentions dealing with financial responsibilities, such as taxes and legal matters associated with fame. He acknowledges the complexities and costs of success.
The second paragraph delves into Wale's authenticity and his ability to accumulate wealth. He declares that his money is genuine and earned through hard work, counting it until calluses form on his hands. Wale acknowledges the OGs (original gangsters) who have accumulated old money in his city, highlighting the endurance of its economic divide. The phrase "new balances" serves as a double entendre, referring both to the classic sneaker brand New Balance and the need to find balance in society. Wale portrays his city as a trap, possibly alluding to the struggles of poverty, systemic issues, and the need for unity and collaboration. He emphasizes the importance of ending violence and division among communities.
The third paragraph begins with Wale acknowledging that some people may not appreciate his return, but he doesn't let it affect him. He mentions having a busy schedule, hinting at the demands of his career. Wale emphasizes the need to replenish and take care of oneself. He mentions being distant and deliberately avoiding explanations about his emotional state. Wale also reflects on the superficiality of certain relationships, where women claim to need him without truly knowing him. This observation leads Wale to question the authenticity of his surroundings. He implies that some people may be fake or insincere in their interactions. He views the game (the music industry) from a distant perspective, feeling somewhat disconnected and observing its dynamics. Wale asserts his leadership qualities and points out his preference for deeper connections rather than purely materialistic encounters. The mention of the "wet" nature of the encounter referring to sexual pleasure without being motivated solely by material gain adds to the sense of authenticity.
In the final paragraph, Wale embraces his Nigerian heritage and affirmatively proclaims his significance and influence. He refers to himself as "royalty" and asserts his independence as a free agent able to make his own choices. Wale appreciates the aesthetically pleasing orange sneakers obtained through his connection with Salehe, a renowned sneaker designer. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, loyalty, and being true to oneself despite the temptation to conform to corrupt influences. Wale mentions staying loyal to his roots, even when presented with easy gains or opportunities to compromise his principles. He juxtaposes checks, as a form of success and validation, with new balances, symbolizing his growth and evolution.
Overall, Wale's lyrics in "New Balances" reflect on personal experiences, societal issues, and the challenges of success. He navigates through themes of authenticity, relationships, finance, and self-empowerment while touching on the need for unity and ending violence in communities.
Line by Line Meaning
Is it good or bad, wrong or right shit?
Are the current circumstances favorable or unfavorable?
Folarin II, yeah
Referring to the artist's name and album
We still in a motherfuckin' pandemic, nigga
Acknowledging the ongoing pandemic situation
They ain't want me here, fuck it, I'm back though
Despite opposition, the artist is determined to return
And I'm with so many, so many rap flow
Surrounded by a multitude of talented rappers
Toe-to-toe with the mic, I am Mike like
Comparable to the legendary boxer Mike Tyson
And you ho niggas lookin' Glass Joe
Referring to weak opponents in comparison to Glass Joe, a character from the video game Punch-Out!!
It's a hole in my heart from my last ho
Experiencing emotional pain due to a past relationship
It's a hole in her wallet right after
Leaving financial burden on his former partner
Every lyric I wrote is her caption
His ex-girlfriend uses his song lyrics as captions on social media
When we broke up she posted her CashApp, yeah
After their breakup, she publicly shared her cash app information
She could've hit me for it (pussy)
She could have privately requested money from him
Sweet like Pepsi Cola
Referring to someone who is affectionate and attractive like a sweet drink
Look, I play but I'm not no toy
He engages in relationships but is not to be treated as a plaything
She need flavor, I'm no LaCroix
He can provide excitement and substance, not just superficiality
IRS keep callin', count my racks I don't record it, mm
Receiving frequent calls from the IRS regarding his finances, but he ignores them
Fame ain't like you know, pay these taxes and these lawyers, yeah
Being famous comes with financial responsibilities like taxes and legal fees
Nigga, this Prada from '26, designer for money is somethin' else
Wearing expensive designer clothing, showcasing the allure of wealth
Phylicia Rashad is a lucky woman, it's all workin' with the funny bills
Comparing a fortunate woman to Phylicia Rashad (a successful actress) and mentioning the consequences of handling large amounts of money
Authentic, never counterfeit, count it up 'til it's calluses
Emphasizing the importance of genuine success and working hard to accumulate wealth
OG's flippin' old money, same old city, new balances
Experienced individuals handling traditional wealth in a familiar city, but adapting to new circumstances
It's like the city always been like a trap
The city has always been challenging and full of obstacles
We might be divided and lost and everything
Despite being divided and facing difficulties, there is still hope
But we come together like a, like a iron had, and all over, right?
Using a metaphor to express the importance of unity and collaboration
The main idea is to stop killin' each other, man, and come together (yeah)
Advocating for ending violence and promoting unity within the community
They don't like it, but fuck it, I'm back
Despite disapproval, the artist is returning
Cookies and bag, I got no time to be mad
Engaging in enjoyable activities and not wasting time on negativity
I got no time to be tied up in feelings
Preferring to avoid emotional entanglements and focus on other priorities
I gotta re-up, you gotta relax
Needing to restock and recharge while encouraging others to calm down
I gotta be classy
Maintaining a sophisticated and refined demeanor
I've been distant, I've been chillin' don't ask me
Choosing to keep a distance and enjoy a relaxed state without explaining oneself
How I'm feelin', I'm as good as I'm gon' be
Expressing contentment with one's current emotional state
Check your senses, niggas won't even see me
Warning others to be more perceptive as he moves discreetly
Tryna be noisy
Attempting to attract attention and create a buzz
And really be one deep
Being self-sufficient and relying only on oneself
And really get no sleep
Working tirelessly without getting much rest
And it really be women that tell me they need me but don't even know me
Receiving attention and affection from women who are unfamiliar with his true self
But shit can get O.D
Acknowledging that things can get out of control
So I'm lookin' at the game funny, like I'm in a nosebleed
Observing the music industry with skepticism and feeling distant from its mainstream aspects
I'm a leader, a man
Identifying oneself as a leader and individual of authority
You trick with bitches that'll feed me in bed
Engaging with women who are willing to cater to his desires
It's different, nigga, I can speak to their soul
Stating the artist's ability to connect with women on a deeper level
The pussy wetter when it ain't for a bag
Implying that sexual experiences are more enjoyable when they aren't driven by financial motives
But how would you know?
Challenging the listener's understanding of genuine connections and experiences
We stuck to the code
Adhering to a set of principles or values
I ain't switchin', I be good when it's slow
Maintaining loyalty and contentment even during less successful periods
They don't hit me when the numbers is low
Not receiving support or attention during times of lower popularity
You makin' hit, a nigga smother your phone, and try big bro you
If you become successful, someone will constantly reach out to you and try to take advantage of your position
Hol' up, I'm in Miami, the toes out
Currently in Miami, enjoying warm weather and wearing open-toed shoes
Shout out to Zoey, the Zoes out
Giving a shoutout to Zoey and acknowledging the presence of the Zoes
Bam Adebayo on courtside
Referring to professional basketball player Bam Adebayo sitting in the court-side seats
Bag on me, I'm really Yoruba
Having a significant amount of money and proudly embracing his Yoruba heritage
I'm really royalty, I'm of important
Considering himself to have regal status and significant importance
Free agent, I rock what I want, right
Being an independent artist and having the freedom to choose his own style and direction
Salehe, he just got me the orange ones, uh, yeah
Thanking someone named Salehe for procuring a pair of orange shoes for him
When it's God-given and you elevated
Acknowledging success that comes from natural talent and personal growth
All these Satan niggas want you down with them, yeah, yeah
Referring to negative influences and temptations trying to bring him down
Pray for 'em, they embarassin'
Expressing pity for those who choose destructive paths
I stayed loyal like I owe runners
Remaining faithful and true to his roots and those who supported him
OG checks, new balances, yeah, mm
Receiving financial support and validation from respected and influential figures
New balances
A play on words, referencing both the shoe brand and the act of finding stability
Same old city, new balances, yeah
Navigating familiar surroundings but with a fresh perspective and approach
Way more checks, new balances, yeah
Earning more financial rewards and maintaining a stable lifestyle
(?), haha
Unclear lyrics, possibly an adlib or laughter
Oh, I'm tellin' you dressed very nice
Complimenting someone's exceptional style and appearance
(?)
Unclear lyrics, potentially referring to the lack of care about others' opinions
They want to compare everybody with everybody
Noticing the tendency to constantly compare individuals to one another
I don't care what anybody say you are, you are still above the game
Disregarding others' opinions, stating that the artist is still superior in his craft
Lyrics Β© CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Douglas Mcgill Cooper, Miles Franklin, Olubowale Victor Akintimehin
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
manse kiddo
[Intro]
Is it good or bad, wrong or right shit?
Folarin II, yeah
We still in a motherfuckin' pandemic, nigga
[Verse 1]
Look, they ainβt want me here, fuck it, I'm back though
And I'm with so many,βsoβmanyβrap flow
Toe-to-toe withβthe mic, Iβam Mike-like
And you ho niggas lookinβ Glass Joe
It's a hole in my heart from my last ho
It's a hole in her wallet right after
Every lyric I wrote is her caption
When we broke up, she posted her CashApp, yeah
She could've hit me for it (Pussy) sweet like Pepsi Cola, look
I play but I got no toy, she need flavor, I'm no LaCroix, mm
IRS keep callin', count my racks I don't record it, mm
Fame ain't like you know, pay these taxes and these lawyers, yeah
Nigga this Prada from β26, desire for money is somethinβ else
Phylicia RashΔd is a lucky woman, it's all workinβ with the funny bills
Authentic, never counterfeit, count it up 'til it's calluses
OG's flippinβ old money, same old city, new balances
[Interlude]
That's why the city always feels like a trap
We might need to [?] and everything
When we come together like a, like a [?] Feds all over, right?
The main idea is to stop killin each other man, and come together
[Verse 2]
They don't like it but fuck it, I'm back
Cookies in bag, I got no time to be mad
I got no time to be tied up in feelings
I gotta re-up, you gotta relax
I gotta be classy, I've been dissin', I've been chillin', don't ask me
How I'm feelin', I'm as good as I'm gon' be
Check ya census, niggas won't even see me, tryna be noisy
And it really be one deep, ain't really get no sleep
And it really be women that tell me they need me
But don't even know me
This shit can get O.D
So I'm lookin' at the game funny like I'm in a nosebleed
I'm a leader, a man
You trick with bitches that'll feed me in bed
It's different, nigga, I can speak to they soul
The pussy wetter when it ain't for a bag
But how would you know? We stuck to the code
I ain't switchin', I be good when it's slow
Don't hit me when the numbers is low
You makin' hit, a nigga smother your phone and try to big bro you
Hol' up, I'm in Miami, the toes out
Shout out to Zoey, the Zoes out, Bam Adebayo on courtside
Bag on me, I'm really Yoruba, I'm really royalty, I move important
Free agent, I rock what I want right
Salehe, he just got me the orange ones, uh, yeah
[Chorus]
Authentic, never counterfeit
When it's God-given and you elevated
All these satan niggas want you down with them
Yeah, yeah, pray for 'em, they embarassin'
I stayed loyal like an old runners, OG checks, new balances
Yeah, mm, new balances
Same old city, new balances
Yeah, new balances
Way more checks, new balances, yeah
[Outro: Wale &Β Wale's Mom]
[?], haha
I'm tellin' you dressed very nice
[?]
[?]
I don't care what anybody say you at, you are still above the game
Nolly Great Movies
Wale π₯π₯!! Never forgets where he's from, "Bag on me, I'm really Yoruba boy"
Young God
Ancestral Knowledge π₯π₯π₯π―π³π¬
ΓbΓΉkΓΊn Adelekan
Ba wo ni, I'm really Yoruba.
It means "how are you?" In Yoruba.
Nolly Great Movies
@Garth Yahudah Andrews Nice to know
Nolly Great Movies
@Hamzat Saba thanks. autocorrect ππ
Garth Yahudah Andrews
I found out Iβm Yoruba not too long ago lol
Jimmy InFinity
Wale is so slept on. Why is he not trending?
Austin ATOM
Because he raps about black excellence too often. βTheyβ afraid of him
Split Personality
The underrated goat that most people forget and sleep on. Pure art
Akay Cardinal
Facts