As hip-hop celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, one group stands out for its monumental influence on the genre: the Wu-Tang Clan. This month marks 30 years since the release of their debut album, "Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)," which critics say is one of the greatest hip-hop albums ever.
Founding member Robert Diggs, also known as RZA, was the driving force behind the group's formation and early success. The group's members included iconic names like The GZA, Ol' Dirty Bastard, Method Man, U-God, Inspectah Deck, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon the Chef and Masta Killa.
Armed with a unique name inspired by kung fu films of the 1970s, Wu-Tang's style is a blend of gritty lyrics and philosophical themes, which in the 1990s was a stark contrast to the prevailing hip-hop trends.
RZA said the group was influenced by films members saw on New York City's 42nd Street, where instead of going to school, they spent their days in theaters.
"We're talking, like, 13-, 14-year-old men absorbing three of these movies a day," said RZA.
RZA said the parallels between their music style and love of the martial arts can be found in their lyrics.
RZA, a member of the iconic hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan, recently spoke about the philosophy and values that have influenced their music. He emphasized the themes of brotherhood, discipline, and sacrifice that are present in their music and connect to their experiences as young Black men in America.
One of Wu-Tang Clan's most well-known songs, "C.R.E.A.M. (Cash Rules Everything Around Me)," reflects the struggles and triumphs they faced while navigating their path to success. The group's music serves as a poignant expression of the challenges they encountered, including encounters with law enforcement.
In 2004, the group faced a tragedy with the untimely death of founding member Ol' Dirty Bastard. His legacy lives on through his eldest son, Young Dirty Bastard, who now performs with the group and keeps his father's spirit alive on stage.
During a family dinner after a show at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, the group reflected on their deep connection and the unity they feel as a family. Despite their success, they remain rooted in their shared experiences and values.
Wu-Tang Clan: A Dynamic Presence in Hip-Hop
The Wu-Tang Clan remains a dynamic presence in hip-hop, with more than three decades of music and seven studio albums. As hip-hop continues to evolve, RZA sees a bright future:
"I always say that hip-hop is a mountain. And I think 50 years only marks the base of the mountain. So I think we got a long way to go. And it's gonna keep evolving," he said.
