Wale doesn't need any help in the romance department, as indicated in his smooth jams over the years. So it's no surprise the hip-hop savant curated a Valentine's Day playlist for today (Feb. 14).
The Washington, D.C.-born rapper shows his love for his hometown, putting fans on new artists like Alex Vaughn and beloved acts such as Brent Faiyaz's group Sonder, Mýa, Raheem DeVaughn and ADÉ. And of course, Wale makes an appearance or two with his sizzling, soulful ballads.
But the nostalgic-sounding R&B tunes Wale & friends spill their hearts over go through the love we're all thinking about and the full-circle moments of a relationship, from kindling an initial physical attraction to growing trust to preserving love over long distance to dancing through the fun when you're young.
Check out the full playlist of Wale's swoon-worthy V Day tracks below, as well as some comments about why some of the songs channel a romantic wavelength.
SWV, "Anything": "Always love this original, the harmonies and arrangements always sounded amazing to me. SWV singing together is unmatched and always sets a tone."
Wale, "Effortless": "Nothing better than a woman and relationship that moves effortless."
Wale, "3 Days 3 Hours": "This is a story of distance and how it makes the heart grow. Who doesn't want to see the people they love and miss?"
Jodeci, "Cry For You": "You feel the passion in this song. This is classic Jodeci."
Sonder, "Too Fast": "My favorite song from Brent Faiyaz and Sonder. The tone of his voice and music can put anyone in a mood."
Alex Vaughn, "Needs": "New artist from the DMV explaining a woman's need from her perspective. Her voice and words draw you in."
Jorja Smith, Preditah, "On My Mind (Jorja Smith X Preditah)": "All V Day songs don’t have to be slow. I love this song since it has been out. Hook is infectious."
Mint Condition, "Forever In Your Eyes": "Stokely [Williams] has one the greatest voices ever. This song is underrated about how the eyes never lie."
Micheal Jackson, "Baby Be Mine": "The only song that wasn't a single off Thriller and might be the best. Arrangement again plays a part in my love for this song."
Soul For Real, "Candy Rain": "Just reminds me of young love. Forever a '90s classic. You have to sing it when you hear it."
Musiq Soulchild, "Mary Go Round": "Beautiful written and sang song. Musiq is a must on any V Day playlist."
Snoh Aalegra, "I Want You Around (feat. 6lack) [Remix]": "Gives me live clasic feel. Also Snoh and my brother 6lack killed this."
Mýa, "It's All About Me": "Every sensual song. When you hear the song, you immediately thing of the video."
Raheem DeVaughn, "Believe": "Raheem sings the story of growing trust. All relationships start there. This album is classic."
Raphael Saadiq, "Still Ray": "I love this version and the Go-Go version. Smooth and musical."
Maroon 5, "Sunday Morning": "Just feels like a great start to a day. Again amazing arrangement."
ADÉ, "SOMETHING SWEET (feat. Fatman Scoop)": "Got to make women feel good and dance. Always loved this ADÉ song. Wish I made this song."
Lucky Daye, "Roll Some Mo (feat. Ty Dolla $ign & Wale) [Remix]": "Defintely glad I got to be a part of this one. Song gives you the instructions."