Wale performs at The Fillmore Silver Spring on Oct. 9, 2019. (Photo by Shedrick Pelt)

“Woooow… That’s Craaaaazy” was the phrase I repeated over and over to myself, as the night built for the anxiously awaited return home for DC’s prolific son Wale! This was what it’s supposed to feel like when you’re a hometown hero. The Fillmore Silver Spring was supposed to have a line wrapped around the block. You’re supposed to bring out the homies Q Da Fool & Young Chris. What would normally amount to a ton of pressure, didn’t phase Wale. He just feels the strength: He loves his city and it loves him.

So on Oct. 9 in Silver Spring, his arrival was welcomed with open arms. It was packed out early and the energy was elevated in anticipation for his new album, Wow… That’s Crazy. Wale has been on an epic run since he entered the game with his ‘09 debut album Attention Deficit. And he doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.

Event partner Audiomack laced the stage with a faux U Street Metro station pillar and an Audiomack Ave/High Hemp Hwy intersection. The stage was literally set for his homecoming. Before he even comes out women are screaming, “We love you Wale!” Again, this is what it’s supposed to feel like when you’re born and raised in the Chocolate City. And if you do everything else right, you end the night with the entire DMV on stage. Welcome home, Wale.

Stream Wale’s Wow… That’s Crazy on Spotify:

Below are images from a well deserved homecoming for Wale at The Fillmore Silver Spring on Oct. 9, 2019. All images copyright and courtesy of Shedrick Pelt.