Wale visited rolling out‘s office on Oct. 12 for an exclusive cover shoot and interview. This writer served as creative director while Cory Reese photographed Wale in several looks.
The concept of the cover shoot reflected Wale and his current state in hip-hop. After a disappointing debut album, Wale seeks to solidify himself as a top-tier lyricist in hip-hop. His next move will be critical to his future in music.
Currently on tour to promote his sophomore album Ambition, Wale sat down after his photo shoot and discussed his partnership with Rick Ross, his theory on why his debut album was a disappointment, and why this time around is different.
On Signing to Rick Ross’ label:
“The Maybach Music Group situation came about when I was a free agent. I look at Rick Ross as a great artist of our time. But I didn’t sign to be a side kick. I want to be an artist and do what I want to do. Ross let’s me do what I want to do when it comes to music. He’s the boss at the label, but he’s not bossing me around.”
On Why His First Album Was a Disappointment:
“My fans appreciated my first album, but my label didn’t ship many units for whatever reason. But I put that on myself. We’re working hard now. I do this for my fans and family. I had to reevaluated my life and my situation and now I’m in a different situation.”
On Why His Second Chance Will be Different”
“The difference is freedom. I’m very in tune with urban culture. I felt my last situation wasn’t allowing me to grow with the urban culture. They saw a Lady Gaga opportunity and I went with it. I was a new artist and I didn’t get it. I thought I was being ignored by black America.”
Log in daily to rollingout.com for more exclusive videos, photos and the cover story.
