Photo: Ryan K
Wale gave day-one fans a promising update about his forthcoming album during the first night of his new tour.
The DMV native made his way down to Revolution Live in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday night, September 19, to kick off his "Every Blue Moon" Tour. After Atlanta artist Swavay opened the show, Wale began his set with "Bad" — which had all the ladies singing every word of the chorus. Afterward, the seasoned rapper explained why this tour was unlike any of his past concerts. Wale revealed he's in the process of completing his eighth studio, and he wants to bring fans with him for the ride.
"This tour is different though," Wale told his fans. "I'm in a different place in my life and my career. I'm doing what I want to do. I just recently signed with Def Jam so I'm doing things different. I'm closing out my eighth album."
Wale has been in the studio working on his forthcoming LP for quite some time. The Grammy-nominated artist said he had an epiphany about five months ago that inspired him to connect with his fans before he debuts the follow-up to his 2021 Folarin II album. He plans to complete the project while he's on the road this fall with his day-one, day-two and day-three fans in mind. In addition, Wale promised to perform songs he had never truly brought to life before and debut some new music along the way.
Prior to the tour, Wale delivered a few fresh tracks including an impressive freestyle he posted to his Instagram on the day of his concert. He cooked up the freestyle in the studio following his surprise appearance at Kehlani's "Crash Tour" stop in Washington, D.C. the night before his first show. Wale also dropped a three-pack earlier this month including "Ghetto Speak," "Mission Statement," and "What's The Play" featuring Chaz French. He performed the latter track live for the first time during his show.
Wale warmed up the crowd with deep cuts from memorable projects like "88" from The Gifted (2013) and "Chun Li" featuring the late Nipsey Hussle off Folarin (2012) — a song that he's never performed live. He also stunned fans with his transition from "Nike Boots" to the title track of Ambition (2011). Wale even performed songs like "90210" from his debut album Attention Deficit. Fans might have a chance to see him perform more songs from his 2009 LP ahead of its 15th anniversary in November.
The rapper and actor received plenty of love throughout the show. During his performance of "Sue Me," one generous woman passed him a gift bag in honor of his 40th birthday this weekend. His energy on stage was unmatched as he busted out some dance moves to songs like "My PYT" and "Poke It Out," which made the packed venue go wild. Loyal followers also sang along with him as he belted out other favorites like "On Chill," "The Matrimony" and "That Way." He made sure to close out strong with classic joints like his verse on Waka Flocka Flame's "No Hands," "Clappers," and "Lotus Flower Bomb."
Wale's "Every Blue Moon" tour will continue to other major cities across the country until it wraps up on November 7 in Alabama. Check out more scenes from the first night of his tour and listen to his latest song below.