By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Obviously, switching record labels was the right thing for Wale to do. Two years ago, Wale set records and helped establish the Washington, DC hip hop scene. Immediately, he landed a management deal with Roc Nation. After teaming up with Jay-Z, Wale signed with Interscope Records. Given their success with Dr. Dre, Eminem, 50 Cent, Game, and others, Wale felt as if he made the right decision.
However, following his debut album’s flop, Wale was weighing other options. Rick Ross, who had tried and failed to land Wiz Khalifa, was hoping to expand his Maybach Music roster. A year ago, around this time, Rick Ross boasted of how he would likely sign Wale to his label. Many wrote this off as Rick Ross’ typical bragging. But, in Januaray, the signing was official, coming as a shock to many.
When asked why he left Interscope Records for Maybach Music, Wale said he could receive more of a personal touch on his music. Being with Rick Ross also meant he had more visibility and exposure to a wider audience. Even before releasing his album, Wale was a part of the Self Made album with Maybach Music and was featured on records with the entire crew. Wale even made an appearance, alongside Mario, on Game’s The R.E.D. Album. After much discussion, and nearly two years, Wale has finally released his second album.
Ambition was released yesterday and has been estimated to sell between 170,000 and 190,000 copies in its first week. The album is the first album Wale released under Maybach Music. Wale hopes to release his third album sometime in 2012.
