Wale's SIMPLE MOBILE Simply Nothing Tour hits Bogart's in Cincinnati, OH
On Thursday, Jan 15th Maybach Music Group artist Wale graced the stage of Bogart’s in Cincinnati, OH. The concert was part of his SIMPLE Mobile Simply Nothing Tour and featured an ensemble of new and upcoming artists in the opening acts. Artists featured included Kid Quill, Bizzy Crook, and Audio Push amongst others.
The headlining artist, Wale, is associated with accolades such as having #1 Billboard hits, being world renowned, and Grammy Nominated. His articulation is displayed in the poetic imagery of his lyrics. With chart topping songs such as “Bad” and “Lotus Flower Bomb” his talent is undeniable. Yet, going into his fourth studio album many are debating that in regards to his music Wale just isn’t the same Wale anymore. In the rap/hip hop industry these debates happen often. The evolution of artists isn’t always liked. Setting hip hop up to be a dog eat dog world with artists struggling to stay on top. Catering to one audience leaves another behind and there’s no way to clearly define what will get a thumbs up from your fans. Wale has been quoted as saying “Some of your fans will be like ‘your first shit was better,’ but you know in your mind, body, and soul that what you’ve been putting out is better. That’s part of the curse. That’s sickness. That’s insanity.” So, which audience does Wale satisfy during the “Simply Nothing Tour”? In my opinion anyone and everyone who has ever been a fan of his.
Throughout the night Wale performed a selection of songs from both his mixtapes & albums. Full of energy Wale hits the Stage.... “I’m sort of a genius, nothing short of a legend” –Wale opens the night up with the song “Legendary” from his Ambition Album. Shortly after Wale & Dew Baby bopped around the stage performing their hit “Loyalty” from the Festivus Album. Although, the arena was small (and shockingly not very many people attended) the crowd was hype. Especially when Wale performed hits such as “Bad”, “Lotus Flower Bomb”, and the latest “Body Like a Benz” which features Jeremih and will be on his upcoming album titled The Album About Nothing. These hits definitely catered to the majority of his fans.
Overall, Wale put on a show that made the audience feel like they were partying with him. He bopped the whole time and had me thinking 'Get it Wale' !! His high energy and signature dance moves amped everyone in the building, making for a great atmosphere & a good time. I left the night glad I’d experienced a live performance from Wale.