Gullible
Wale · The Gifted [2013]
Would you believe that?
If you believe that
TV killed the radio
TV killed the radio
Let's get it
(Verse)
What if they tell you this music was bogus?
The government run it, they controlin the culture
Would you believe that if you read that?
What if they tell you the iPhone was tapped?
And see all of your browse and I know you viewin your apps
And Twitter and Instagram is really like middle man
And internet soldiers, everybody was carrying max
And when they said Obama was in a raid
He actually got a gut, tan and scratch to pair of black
Would you believe that? We reached that, look
How bout they tell you you dyin if you ain't voting?
So now you vote for one in reline
I got a motion and believe that
You know you doin what you eat
What if they make it less? Talkin you what it do
Talkin you what's here but never let they mother jump
Part in the flow with consistence control they many souls
I thought it's it, loaded by television shows
Opinion show with Muslims see what they lovin boy
A little gossip to you keeps watchin it on point
So don't believe so how they are breaking the law?
A lot of bullets are prodigal to the gullible
(Hook)
I'm turnin on the radio just to turn the TV on (on, on)
I live my whole life in stereo, always singing my old song (song, song)
As it flows into my vein
As it flows into my vein
(Bridge)
TV killed the radio
TV killed the radio
TV killed the radio
And then the internet slit the television throat
(Verse)
And the world star model fell up out the orbit
That's what that brought a rappin artist behind his mortgage
And now the rappers would visit Shawty, Shawty keep goin
And everybody be laughin at him, he doesn't know it
'Cause he believed her, thought he couldn't be G but such a squeaker
News flash, news flash, it's a cruel world
And no one's too thorough to lose it on to a girl
Uh, what if they told you your chip was a boogie
You know, like a hoe, the type I've been shootin
You gon play it like nah homie, soon as the car pull up
Tell er you'll holler at er so get in you gonna lose it
(Bridge)
TV killed the radio
TV killed the radio
TV killed the radio
And then the internet slit the television throat
When I moved forward I gave birth to several episodes
Our generation is turned, we got too many clones
We just believe they gon repeat what niggas told
And all the bullets are prodigal to the gullible
(Hook)
I'm turnin on the radio just to turn the TV on (on, on)
I live my whole life in stereo, always singing my old song (song, song)
As it flows into my vein
As it flows into my vein
(Outro)
I'd like to thank all the beautiful people that came out here tonight
There's Reese, yea I see you in the bag baby
Oh yea
You hear that? Uh, here to adapt things in the back
Young Dallas
I feel good right now
I just want something bout people but I appreciate
I'm to believe it
You done
Gullible by Wale
Released in 2013 on the album The Gifted, "Gullible" stands as a quintessential example of Wale's mid-career evolution, blending his signature melodic sensibilities with the polished production trends of the early 2010s hip-hop landscape. The track serves as a reflective piece within the broader catalogue of The Gifted, which marked a departure from the raw, street-centric narratives of his earlier work like Ambition toward a more introspective and commercially refined sound. Wale's vocal delivery on the song is characterized by a smooth, almost conversational flow that prioritizes emotional resonance over aggressive rhythmic delivery. He explores themes of naivety and the ease with which individuals can be swayed by superficial promises or fleeting desires, framing the concept of being "gullible" not as a weakness but as a vulnerability that opens one up to both heartbreak and unexpected connection.
Musically, the song relies on a laid-back, atmospheric beat that allows Wale's lyrics to breathe and settle into the groove. The production features a soft, reverb-drenched piano loop and subtle synth textures that create a dreamy, nocturnal ambiance, typical of the R&B-infused hip-hop style Wale had mastered by this point in his career. This sonic palette supports the lyrical content, which delves into the complexities of modern relationships and the human tendency to overlook red flags in favor of hope. The song avoids explicit storytelling in favor of a generalized observation that resonates with listeners who have experienced the sting of being taken advantage of or the bittersweet realization of a missed opportunity due to trust.
In the context of Wale's discography, "Gullible" fits comfortably alongside other tracks on The Gifted that deal with themes of ambition, love, and self-worth, such as "Love Hate Thing" and "Bad (Remix)." It represents a period where Wale was actively courting a wider mainstream audience while maintaining his distinct identity as a songwriter who could navigate the boundaries between rap and R&B. The song did not feature a featured artist, allowing Wale to showcase his solo vocal capabilities and his ability to craft a complete musical statement without external influences. While it may not be one of his most commercially dominant singles, it is frequently cited by fans and critics alike as a standout track that encapsulates the mood and maturity of the 2013 era.
Public reception to the song has generally been positive, with many listeners appreciating its relatable lyrics and the smooth execution of the performance. It is often remembered as a track that captures the specific emotional texture of the time, balancing melancholy with a sense of acceptance. The song has gained a cult following among those who study the evolution of contemporary R&B and hip-hop, valued for its contribution to the sound of The Gifted and its role in establishing Wale's status as a versatile artist capable of delivering both catchy hooks and deep, contemplative verses. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to function as both a personal anthem and a shared experience for those navigating the complexities of trust and emotion in their own lives.