OXON HILL, Md. – Wale closed out his Each Blue Moon Tour Friday evening on the theater inside MGM Nationwide Harbor with a efficiency that felt extra like a heartfelt homecoming than simply one other tour cease.
Full of nostalgic tributes, emotional moments, and a reminder of the DMV rapper’s deep roots, the evening was a testomony to Wale’s enduring connection to the neighborhood that raised him.
The rapper, recognized for mixing streetwise charisma with poetic introspection, took the stage carrying Nike boots, slouch socks, and a College of Maryland bomber jacket. Beneath, he sported a Tai Felton Maryland soccer jersey — a nod to the Terrapins’ star vast receiver.
Photograph by way of Myles MiniShotta
Opening the present along with his 2013 hit “Dangerous,” Wale set the tone for a night that balanced hits designed to take the gang down reminiscence lane. He adopted with tracks like “Slight Work,” “90210” from his debut album “Consideration Deficit,” “Pole Dancer,” “Caramel Kisses,” and “The Breakup Tune.”
Midway via his set, Wale switched gears, becoming a Washington Capitals throwback Alexander Ovechkin jersey. However it wasn’t simply the wardrobe change that caught the gang’s consideration — Wale moonwalked throughout the stage, earlier than performing “Ambition” whereas rocking a pair of cozy Ugg boots.
One of many evening’s most unforgettable moments got here when Wale invited a pair on stage. The 2, who had met at a 2019 Wale live performance in San Francisco, acquired engaged in entrance of the gang. After she stated sure, Wale carried out his Usher-assisted love ballad “Matrimony,” leaving many within the viewers teary-eyed.
The surprises didn’t cease there. Maryland State Senator Nick Charles offered Wale with an official proclamation declaring November 15 as “Wale Day” in Maryland.
The respect left the rapper humbled.
“I’m nonetheless processing it,” Wale advised FOX 5. “Maryland formed me. I wouldn’t be who I’m with out this place.”
The present was the fruits of Wale’s “Gifted Week,” a collection of neighborhood occasions celebrating the distinctive tradition of the DMV and its youth.
“This has been probably the greatest components of my profession. Portray with the youngsters, freezing on the soccer sport — it jogged my memory of why I do that.”
Because the live performance neared its conclusion, Wale donned a Washington Commanders jersey with quarterback Jaden Daniels’ identify on the again. Daniels joined him on stage because the rapper carried out the high-energy anthems “Clappers” and “No Palms.”
Talking backstage after the present, Wale opened up in regards to the significance of closing his tour at residence and the challenges of his journey.
“Seeing all these acquainted faces, taking place reminiscence lane — it’s particular,” he stated. “My mother lives like seven minutes from right here. It’s full circle.”
Now signed to Def Jam, Wale is able to step into the subsequent chapter of his profession.
“I’ve acquired much more left,” he shared. “The crown is heavy, however I’m working with it. I’m going to raise and separate myself from the pack.”
For the DMV’s hometown hero, Friday evening wasn’t nearly closing a tour, it was about celebrating his roots, his followers, and a legacy nonetheless within the making.
“I’m nonetheless right here — and I’ve acquired extra to offer,” he stated.
