The Urban Feed

On the first day of school teachers couldn’t say his name and now this DC native has the nation saying WALE!

Just when critics were ready to call the time of death for hip-hop, the self proclaimed “Ambassador of Rap for the Capital” Wale (“wah-lay”) emerged to breathe the must needed oxygen back into the game. Wale, born in 1984 to Nigerian immigrants hailed from Northwest Washington D.C. He is most definitely putting on for his city with his fresh word play mixed with powerful instrumental beats from his years in D.C.’s famous go-go scene and electrifying stage presence.

After attending Robert Morris and Virginia State University on football scholarships, Wale transferred to Bowie State University where his passion for music grew intense and motivated him to dropout of Bowie State University to pursue a recording career.

With the help of a local DJ who had confidence in his skills, Wale got his first airplay in 2003 with “Rhyme of the Century” landing him a column in Source Magazine called “Unsigned Hype”. Wale elevated to fame with his 2006 song “Dig Dug (Shake It)” becoming a local hit in DC. The releasing of five significantly recognized mix-tapes created buzz throughout New York, Philly, Virginia, Maryland and D.C landing him a deal with Interscope records and management by Roc Nation.

Influenced by hip-hop heavy hitters such as Jay-Z, Black Thought, Common, Eminem and Rakim, Wale is one of the most anticipated artist of 2009 with his upcoming full length album “Attention: Deficit.” The album is scheduled to hit stores on Nov. 10. With the success of Wale’s hits such as “Chillin” featuring label mate Lady Gaga, “World Tour” featuring Jazmine Sullivan, “Pretty Girls” featuring Gucci Mane and the DMV Anthem “Nike Boots,” it is undeniable that Wale is here to stay.

Wale’s debut album “Attention Deficit” will be in stores and online soon. Also watch out for Wale in your area in the couple of weeks as he embarks on his tour with Jay-Z. “CHILLIN” the new single from Wale feat. Lady Gaga is on iTunes NOW!

Selena Ayers
Contributing Writer
The Urban Feed

Popularity: 6% [?]

When it comes to beauty, personality and talent it’s hard not to love Melanie Fiona. All the characteristics that make a great artist are found in Fiona as she bridges the gaps of what the music industry has been missing.

Many people believe Fiona’s upcoming album ” The Bridge” is the next big thing to hit entertainment and after listening to a few of her hit singles such as “Give it to me right” and “It Kills Me,” I have to agree by saying this statement is undeniable. Being born on July 4th, Fiona was destined to light up the stage. She grew up in an immigrant family who migrated to inner city Toronto, Canada where she was born. While growing up in a music filled household, Fiona fell in love with music as she made it her passion.

The Guyanese soulful star accomplished major success before her album even dropped. She opened up for Kanye West in 2008 during his European Tour and her single “Give it to me right” landed at #39 on the Canadian Hot 100 billboard chart in its first week.

Artists such as Sade and Sam Cooke influenced Fiona. Some of her favorite artists are Lauryn Hill, Amy Winehouse and Musiq Soulchild. Fiona met ?uest love while on tour with Kanye and later released a mix-tape with him. She was signed to SRC/Universal Motown last year after meeting G Brown and Ty-Ty from the Roc who brought her to Jay Z to work on a project.

“The Bridge” which is a soulful mix of r&b, soul, reggae, and pop will be released in the US on Nov. 10. Her favorite songs off her debut album are “Sad Songs”, “It Kills Me” and “Ayyo.” Fiona titled her album the bridge because she wanted it to be the thing that brought people together. “I always knew music was my passion,” said Fiona.

To get more of Melanie Fiona check her out at www.myspace.com/melaniefiona

Ke’Andrea “Kiki” Ayers
Editor-In-Chief
The Urban Feed

Popularity: 13% [?]