I’ve been thinking a lot about an article written by True Genius Requires Insanity‘s Marcus Dowling for Mishka in which he talks at length about the recession’s impact on our notions of success. It’s clear that 2K10 will be remembered for the free music (along with the demise of chillwave), and publications like the Indie Bible have become even more vital to survive in this climate. You must invest in the artists you want to hear more from in the future, and if what Marcus said is true, then the city of DC is heavily invested in Wale‘s career in the majors. This Freaks remix is making me dive into the rest of what he’s been talking about.

Wale – Freaks (Bird Peterson Remix)

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So if you live outside of DC, you may not have heard about the huge deal that was Wale‘s November 10 album release. DC’s golden boy is bringing some much needed attention to our oft under appreciated city. Constantly reppin DC (that’s my boy, and haven’t we heard enough about Brooklyn by now anyway?) and working with some of the biggest names, Wale‘s sights are set big. Most of the album leaked before it’s official release, but it’s only given me more time to collect my thoughts. The first single, “Chillin” is freaking catchy, despite my inherent dislike of Lady Gaga. It’s hardly a representation however of how deep Wale can be, and hopefully will just serve as the easily accessible introduction. I’m in agreement with ReadySetDC‘s favorite track being “Contemplate” (feat. Rihanna). I also have a soft spot for “Diary” (come on, a Yann Tiersen sample, how sick is that?) as well as the go-go heavy “Pretty Girls”. Check out previously posted “90210″ as well. I wouldn’t say that it’s the most cohesive album, but I think it’s a great indication of how many facets Wale has. Huge with potential, I just can’t wait to see what the rest of the world thinks. “Come to DC and I’ll make you a believer”.

Wale – Pretty Girls
Wale – Contemplate Feat Rihanna
Wale – Diary

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So you may (or may not) have noticed that D.I.D. has been dormant for a week (the longest amount of downtime in its short, albeit illustrious history). We have upgraded from my personal website to a home of our own, and after a very stressful week (relocating hundreds of mp3s takes sooo much time), we are back. Not to bore you with my troubles, I’m ready to dive back in to it, we have so much to catch up on.

So before falling in love with Chauffeur I didn’t really know too much about Mark Ronson. In a typical fashion, he is now showing up everywhere in my life. Producing tracks for Wale‘s new album (more on that in a minute), working with Amy Winehouse and being responsible for tracks I didn’t even know I knew (“Stop Me”, which features a delightful homage to The Supremes [Diana Ross is also showing up everywhere for me]). Classic soul and flawless production, I’m embarassed that it’s taken me this long, but now there’s no turning back.

Mark Ronson – Valerie feat. Amy Winehouse
Wale – 90210 prod. by Mark Ronson
Mark Ronson – Stop Me feat. Daniel Merriweather

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Wasn’t quite expecting to see those two names together, but somehow it works. The new single from the forthcoming Wale album is out, and it is indeed featuring the Lady herself. Simple and clean and catchy, this songs works and will hopefully bring Wale into the focus of the mainstream. Also included in your gift bag is a remix by DC’s Nacey, one third of Nouveau Riche. If this is your first introduction to the DC rapper, never fear, more lies beneath the surface. If you haven’t heard “The Kramer”, arguably one of the best songs (self!) released last year (where were you?), you’re in for a mind blowingly thoughtful experience.

Wale – Chillin’ (Feat. Lady Gaga)
Wale – Chillin’ (Nacey Remix)
Wale – The Kramer

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