Wale Opens Up About Drake, Kid Cudi and His New Album Everything Is a Lot

Wale recently appeared on the Boardroom Talks program alongside Rich Kleiman and Damien Scott, offering a rare glimpse into his artistic mindset, career moves, and personal relationships in the industry. The DMV MC also reflected on his latest project, Everything Is a Lot, making the interview a must-watch for fans.

One of the most talked-about moments is Wale’s candid discussion about Drake. At around the 26:47 mark of the interview, Kleiman suggested that Drake once had an edge over Wale during the blog era, an advantage he eventually lost. Wale reflected on their relationship, stating, “Last time I seen him was at one of Sean Dickinson’s parties in L.A. Briefly, ‘How are the kids? Alright, peace.’ We never had a close relationship like that, for whatever reason. I don’t know, I mean, we good, but we were not as close as [others].”

Wale noted that as the blog era faded and artists began working in different circles, those early bonds naturally dissipated. “Once everybody stopped really rapping together, or maybe the numbers decided who was working together, I think it kind of ended right there,” he explained, providing insight into how industry dynamics shape personal connections.

The interview also addressed Wale’s history with Kid Cudi, which has been more turbulent. Around the 22:55 mark, Wale recounted his feelings about Cudi dissing his music in a 2010 Complex article. “I don’t talk to Cudi,” Wale said. “I don’t harbor nothing, but I really felt like they kicked me when I was down.” He explained that the comments affected him deeply, especially since the Complex audience included his direct fan base.

Wale further shared frustrations about past collaborations. “We used to run together. You’re going to say something like that to Complex… That joint f***ed me up. I really did. I was at Rick Ross’ house… ‘Aye, [Cudi], we should just do a song.’ We did ‘Focused,’ he did the vocals over the phone… He couldn’t really be bothered to do the vocals properly.”

He also recalled an icy response when inviting Cudi to a personal event. “It was really bad for a couple years,” Wale admitted. “How I felt about him and how I felt about the grace he would get for struggling with mental health, and I was going through the same stuff and I ain’t getting nothing. That joint was boiling my blood. Now I’m on some, ‘Everybody, it’s kumbaya.’ I ain’t trying to keep harboring these feelings, but I was hot for some time.”

Beyond addressing past conflicts, Wale emphasized his artistic values and dedication to his craft. His reflections on these relationships reveal the challenges of navigating personal and professional ties in an industry defined by competition and shifting alliances.

Fans can watch the full Boardroom Talks interview for more insights into Wale’s creative process, industry perspective, and his approach to Everything Is a Lot. The discussion underscores Wale’s honesty, resilience, and commitment to staying true to his vision.