Video: Wale – ‘Groundhog Day’

To celebrate Groundhog Day, Wale unleashes the music video for an extended version of his J. Cole response track, “Groundhog Day.”

The clip begins with soundbites about his controversial past from several media outlets, but soon, we find Folarin relaxing on a double decker tour bus in sunny Los Angeles.

Walking down the world famous Walk of Fame, the D.C. spitter speaks to fans, shakes hands, and poses for photos. Playing the role of L.A. tourist, he also dances with a street performer dressed as Bumblebee from Transformers.

During his lighthearted stroll through Hollywood, he comes across several people, including viral sensation Welvin Da Great. Meanwhile, he raps about his gripes and realizations following J. Cole’s “False Prophets.”

Just when it seems the song is coming to an end, however, a message appears on the screen: “SHUT THE F**K UP AND LISTEN.” Then, static hits and Folarin continues spitting, revealing an extended version of “Groundhog Day,” clocking in at more than eight minutes.

The track works as an autobiographical letter to his daughter that recounts many of his career ups and downs. “Just know that he toured the world with Ross and gave him his first platinum plaque that he didn’t have to ad-lib, rap, or even talk on,” he raps. “Just Folarin with an honest ass song.”

After referencing Lady Gaga, President Barack Obama, and Rihanna, the MMG rider reflects on the industry, which he recently said he’s tired of.

During this rant, Wale says he could diss rappers, but keeps their names bleeped out. “Like how [bleep] is fake, and how [bleep] is fake, and how [bleep] is in the closet,” he raps. “But that’s not my business or y’alls.”

“Groundhog Day” follows a slew of new releases from Wale, including “Smile,” “Heisman Watch,” “Black Is Gold,” “Folarin Like,” and “Running Back” with Lil Wayne, which is expected to appear on his forthcoming album Shine.