Biography

Olubowale Victor Akintimehin (born September 21, 1984), addressed as Wale, is a multi-talented American-Nigerian rapper who excels in rapping, singing, and songwriting. He is highly regarded for his clever use of words and his ability to create captivating slow jams. 

Throughout his career, Wale has released seven studio albums, all highly praised by critics. Notably, The Gifted (2013) and The Album About Nothing (2015) are among his most successful works. 

Additionally, Wale has had the opportunity to collaborate with renowned figures in the hip-hop industry, such as Jay-Z, Rick Ross, and Rihanna.

Early Life & Education

Wale, the appreciated musical artist, born on September 21, 1984, in Washington, D.C., was brought up by his parents, Doris Akintimehin and Ayo Akintimehin. Both his parents belonged to the Yoruba ethnic group from southwestern Nigeria. 

Wale spent his childhood years with his siblings, notably Alvin Akintimehin. 

Despite football scholarships from Robert Morris University and Virginia State University, he transferred to Bowie State University but dropped out due to academic concerns. As a result, Wale must still finish his college education.

Career

In 2009, Wale marked his debut on the grand stage of major labels with Attention Deficit. This musical endeavor resonated both critically and commercially, soaring to the 12th spot on the Billboard 200 chart. A year later, his sophomore effort, Ambition, eclipsed his prior success, ascending to the second position on the same chart.

Wale‘s sonic journey continued with albums like The Gifted (2013), The Album About Nothing (2015), Shine (2016), It’s Complicated (2018), and Self Promotion (2019). He also adorned his discography with mixtapes and EPs, expanding his musical horizons.

As a collaborator, Wale‘s repertoire included stars like Jay-Z, Rihanna, Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, and Kid Cudi. His sonic adventures intertwined with theirs, forming harmonious collaborations.

Beyond music, Wale‘s aura expanded into talk shows, where he enchanted audiences on programs like The Late Show with David Letterman, Saturday Night Live, and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Wale‘s artistry and charisma came to life through these performances, painting him as a multifaceted entertainer.

Awards & Nominations

• 1 Grammy Award
• 2013 Best Rap Song for “Lotus Flower Bomb”
• Ten nominations
• BET Awards
• 2013, 2015 Best Male Hip Hop Artist 
• 2013 Best Collaboration for “LoveHate Thing” with Sam Dew
• BET Hip Hop Awards
• 2012 Best New Artist 
• 2012 Best Mixtape for Attention Deficit
• 2013 MVP of the Year 
• 2013 Lyricist of the Year 
• Grammy Awards
• 2013 Best Rap Song for “Lotus Flower Bomb”
• MTV Video Music Awards
• 2015 Best Video with a Social Message for “The White Shoes”
• Soul Train Awards
• 2013 Best Collaboration for “LoveHate Thing” with Sam Dew
• Nigeria Entertainment Awards
• 2013 Best International Act 

Social Media

• Instagram handle: Wale (@wale) 
• Twitter handle: Wale (@Wale) 
• Facebook: Wale

Personal Life

Wale, 38, has been romantically involved with Chloe Alexis since 2011, and they have a child named Zyla Moon Oluwakemi, born in 2016. Although Wale does not intend to marry, he remains fully devoted to his family. 

In addition to his relationship with Chloe Alexis, Wale has had previous partnerships with Solange Knowles from 2009 to 2010, Amelia Knox in 2014, and Serayah in 2015.

Discography

• 2009 Attention Deficit 
• 2011 Ambition 
• 2013 The Gifted 
• 2015 The Album About Nothing 
• 2017 Shine 
• 2019 Wow… That’s Crazy 
• 2021 Folarin II 

Net Worth

Wale has amassed an estimated net worth of $4 million as an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur. 

In 2006, Wale rose to prominence with the smash song Dig Dug (Shake It), which became famous in his hometown of Washington, D.C. Since then, he has released six studio albums, all of which have gotten favorable reviews from reviewers.