Artist: Wale
Album: Ambition
Release Date: November 1st, 2011

Wale starts off his second solo album “Ambition,” with a track properly titled “Don’t Hold Your Applause.” As the song fades into a soft go go influenced beat produced by Tone P, the first thing we hear is the trademark “Maybach Music” sample. Off the bat, we know what we’re getting ourselves into. To someone unfamiliar with Wale, the initial response to the album might be overwhelming. But to a fan listening to his lyrics, “Tired of making money, I’m on to making history,” paints a vivid picture of what Wale means by “Ambition.”

Wale is much more then your “average rapper.” It’s not about the flashy Maybachs or the heavy gold chains (which I’m sure he doesn’t mind), it’s about making a statement and an impact on the world. To Wale his statement is his life, which he is bringing to us via his album. He has grown exponentially as an artist, working with everything he has to get to his level. Listening to tracks such as “Double M Genius” and “Legendary,” one might get the impression of a cocky rapper. Look past the initial appearance and into the heart of the music. “GQ man of the year,” Wale says, referencing his GQ cover with fellow rappers Kid Cudi and Drake. “Went away for a little, let my wisdom increase,” meaning that even after making a name for himself, Wale stayed away from the limelight to grow even more. Staying humble, he brings back his “Ambition” motto saying, “underrated that’s temporarily for the moment.”

Throughout this album Wale lyrically plays with his words, describing his success but at the same time addressing the fact the he is far from where he wants to be. This is a #GOLDen way of thinking because he will always be determined to work hard with “no days off.” “Ambition” is more then the album title, it’s a way of life. No one other then Wale himself, can say that he hasn’t made it. His passion, talent and determination already sets him apart from others. Even though his debut album “Attention Deficit” was amazing, I think when the time comes, “Ambition” will be the album that defines Wale – that is of course, until his next album drops.