It is not very often that an emerging artist is traditional enough to swiftly gain support but unique enough to be in a class of their own. Then again, it takes a special something to land on our 150th issue cover before even having an album out. For people in the know, Wale is far from a “new” artist. Delivering rock-solid mixtapes and now a phenomenal debut album to the masses, this D.C. champion has been someone to pay attention to for a while now. We caught up with the URB favorite to talk Attention Deficit, touring with Jay-Z and Africa.

URB: First and foremost, the album is very very good. You should be very proud…
Wale: Thank you so much man. I appreciate it.

Yeah, it’s great. I mean, I’ve been a fan of you since the 100 Miles and Runnin’ mixtape. …