Wale x Microsoft. Despite the fact that Zune continues to bleed money for Microsoft, the software giant can’t afford to let it go and continues to aggressively collaborate with the hip-hop community. The latest venture is Zune’s “On The Road WIth Wale” video shorts that we mentioned awhile back but now Zune has also released a limited edition Wale branded Zune player.

These players of course are not for sale but you can try your luck over at Eskay’s to win one now. But don’t worry…I’m sure Bill Gates has identified Drake as the next one to join the Zune army.

Wale x Microsoft Zune. Wale joins a growing number of artists who have been backing Microsoft’s “iPod killer” the Zune. Unfortunatley the results still have been pretty bad although Microsoft blames the economy (see full article). In this newest promo with Wale, Zune sponsors this 10-part series officially described as:

“On the Road with Wale” is a video podcast series chronicling the life and times of the artist known as WALE on tour, as he rocks shows across the country to promote his soon to be released debut album while trying not to go insane while cooped up on the bus. From show highlights, to interviews and guest appearances, to an epic X-Box battle with Young Chris, On The Road with Wale is a colorful montage of the rising star‚Äôs experiences while on his first major headlining tour.

Here is the first video compliments of Digiwaxx and you can download the weekly series at the official Zune website as well.

Wale x ESPN. After all the publicity and hype that ESPN got for having Lil Wayne on their show, looks like they want to keep a good thing going. In this video, Wale (D.C.’s Finest) professes his love for his hometown Washington Captials proving he might be one of the biggest hip-hop artist to openly like hockey. Check the clip. Nah mean? Nah Right.

Despite not having a major record release, Wale has been able to secure major corporate promotional deals due to his “street” appeal that Wall Street companies crave for. His song “Breakdown” is featured on the Madden 2009 soundtrack and on the grassroots level, Wale has been involved with many streetwear lines including L-R-G as a spokesmodel. Wale’s biggest fashion deal though is his recent partnership with Levi’s Jeans.

The Levi’s partnership deal which of course was facilitated with the help of his new label Interscope Records, gives Wale major national exposure through a national print ad campaign (shown below) and is the featured artist in Levi’s interactive “Unbuttoned” online campaign which includes a download remix of “Breakdown” and other insider info. straight from Wale’s mouth. Check out the Wale’s dedicated Levi’s site here.

Today EA Sports announced the long awaited soundtrack for the upcoming Madden 2009. EA celebrates the 20th year of Madden with their largest soundtrack ever and includes a handful of rising hip-hop stars. According to Steve Schnur, head of worlwide music for EA, they “considered 4000+ songs before deciding on the final 26 tracks.” As usual, hip-hop’s influence in the Madden soundtrack is heavy.

Schnur added “Kovas, Kardinal Offishall featuring Lindo P., Wale featuring Southeast Slim, and Timbaland’s new protege Izza Kizza further represent breakthrough Hip-Hop. And we believe that this time next year, Tyga and Kidz In The Hall will be true Hip-Hop superstars.” Young Dre, Busta Rhymes with Linkin Park and Gym Class Heroes fill out the rest of the hip-hop side. Here is a list of their songs featured on Madden ‘09. The full track listing is after the jump…

-Busta Rhymes w/ Linkin Park – We Made It
-Gym Class Heroes – I’m Home
-Izza Kizza – Millionaire
-Kardinal Offishall – Burnt
-Kidz in the Hall – Blackout
-Kovas – Wax On, Wax Off
-Tyga – Diamond Life
-Wale – Breakdown
-Young Dre – Workin’

D.C.’s own Wale has blown up the past couple of months partly thanks to his recent signing to Interscope and partly due to his underground appeal and strong online presence. L-R-G, always on the cusp of hip-hop and street wear fashion has scooped up Wale as a recent sponsor which includes the basic appearances with the L-R-G Clothing and various print ads. Here is the new ad that is now running…

Related: Wale X New Era fitted cap