Fresh music will be making its way to a speaker near you. Despite previously dropping an album last year, Wale has devised a plan to release two brand new albums in 2016. That isn't the only project he's working on. During a recent interview with Complex, the D.C. rapper also discussed executive producing MMG's Self Made Vol. 4, alongside Rick Ross.
Last March, fans were introduced to Wale's fourth studio album, The Album About Nothing, or what he deems his "most personal" body of work to date. The album featured collaborations with SZA, J. Cole, Usher, Jeremih, and of course soundbites from comedian Jerry Seinfeld. It dominated the music charts, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 100, US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, and the US Top Rap Albums.
The 31-year-old Grammy-nominated artist is on a mission to deliver a new sound to his listeners with his forthcoming project. Following in the footsteps of acts like LL Cool J, Drake and Fetty Wap, Wale revealed he will be singing on his fifth studio album, S.H.I.N.E., to improve his songwriting skills and expand as an artist.
A photo posted by Wale (@wale) on Mar 16, 2016 at 1:50pm PDT
"Sonically, I always want to push myself as an artist and I think S.H.I.N.E. is a big example of me pushing myself and trying new things," Wale told Complex. "My fifth album is a reason to celebrate, and a lot of the music I've been making is very chill. I'm singing and I'm not singing to be the next Brian McKnight, I'm singing to enhance my songwriting ability and to evolve as an artist."
The grind doesn't stop there for him. Once that project is done, Wale plans on working on his sixth studio solo album. "The Matrimony" rapper will also act as executive producer on MMG's highly anticipated Self Made Vol. 4.
Since squashing the surprising beef with label mate, Meek Mill, things have been smooth sailing for Wale. He explained his main focus is on the artists who might be less recognized by the public. Rick Ross and Wale want to ensure everyone gets a taste of the microphone this time around.
"I'm producing [Self Made Vol. 4]," Wale said. "Rick Ross gave me the keys to the car, and it's going to have a different sound for sure. Me and Ross want to focus on the guys who haven't really gotten their time yet, like Fat Trel and Rockie Fresh. We want to make sure other people are shining more, but at the same time, show some unity."
Neither S.H.I.N.E. nor Self Made Vol. 4 were given an official release date.
