Biography

Wale Victor Folarin (born Olubowale Victor Akintimehin in September 21, 1984), better known by his stage name Wale (/ˈwɑːlei/ WAH-lay), is an American rapper from Washington, D.C. Wale was born to Nigerian parents. He rose to prominence in 2006, when his song "Dig Dug (Shake It)" became popular in his hometown. Wale became locally recognized and continued recording music for the regional audience. Producer Mark Ronson discovered Wale in 2006 and signed him to Allido Records in 2007. While signed to that label, Wale released several mixtapes and appeared in national media including MTV and various urban magazines.