Wu-Tang Clan
Staten Island's nine-headed crew behind Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), one of the most influential groups in hip-hop history.
Who are the Wu-Tang Clan?
The Wu-Tang Clan is a group from Staten Island, New York, formed in 1992: RZA, GZA, Ol' Dirty Bastard, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, U-God and Masta Killa.
Known for
Their debut Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) (1993), with "Protect Ya Neck" and "C.R.E.A.M.", and the double album Wu-Tang Forever (1997). Their record deal let every member sign solo deals elsewhere, which led to classics like Liquid Swords, Ironman and Only Built 4 Cuban Linx....
Style
RZA's dark, gritty beats with kung-fu film samples, and nine very different MCs trading verses full of slang, philosophy and street stories.
Impact
Wu-Tang changed how hip-hop groups could do business and built a whole universe of solo artists, merchandise and mythology around one name.
Influences
- Shaw Brothers kung-fu films
- The Five-Percent Nation
- Kool G Rap
