Big Wale is back!

Say it with me real quick: Wale doesn’t release enough music! Even though he’s no longer in contention for that coveted “Big 3” spot (I thought he once was), that shouldn’t stop him from getting his ass in the studio and releasing new music. At the same time, I feel like Wale is the kind of rapper who needs to be motivated to write some s**t, so there is no need to force anything.

Today, Wale made a surprise return with not one but two new tracks—“Ghetto Speak” and “Mission Statement.”

I feel like “Ghetto Speak” is dedicated to Keith Lee, who completely trashed Washington DC’s food scene. In the track, Wale highlights the good and bad in the city, bringing up the crooked politicians, the shaky evenings, and the ruptured cherry blossoms. I enjoy the track’s old-school-inspired production, Wale’s clever bars, and the assertive style he raps with. I can do without his poetry in the beginning, though.

“Mission Statement” is a track designed to straddle the line between radio-friendly and reflective. The soulful, uptempo beat blends club vibes with a somber undertone, creating a nuanced atmosphere. Wale uses the track to address his hiatus and label struggles, offering a glimpse into his journey. Even though it’s short, it captures the essence of why he was once so beloved.

Wale dropping two songs less than two minutes long is some weasel s**t, man.

Quincy

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.