More than 20 years have passed since Wu-Tang Clan released Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), but their grimy, game-changing debut still resonates today. Wu-Tang's de-facto leader RZA talks to Emma Smith about the ups and downs of pulling the clan back together, and why their latest album A Better Tomorrow may be their last.
Wu-Tang Clan (L-to-R: Cappadonna, Masta Killa, GZA, RZA, Raekwon, U-God, Inspectah Deck, Ghostface Killah, Method Man) Photo: Jonathan Weiner
When Staten Island’s Wu-Tang Clan released their debut album: Enter The Wu Tang (36 Chambers), on Loud/RCA, a landmark deal gave each of the Wu Tang’s ten members the freedom to pursue their own solo careers on other labels.
The deal was brokered by RZA, producer and de facto head of the group.
Whichever realm he’s working in, RZA’s work is peppered with references to martial arts, kung fu films and the spiritual practices that surround them.
Following more than a decade of soundtrack composition for cult classics including Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill and Jim Jarmusch's Ghost Dog, RZA recently made his directorial debut in true-to-form kung-fu flick The Man With The Iron Fists, which he also starred in.
A few weeks back, Wu-Tang Clan released a new album A Better Tomorrow. Due for release aon their 20th anniversary, the release was pushed back due to infighting, most notably between RZA and Raekwon, who, unhappy with the direction the group was taking, refused to record his verses.
RZA joins Emma Smith to talk Kung Fu films and bringing the clan back together.
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Playlist
Artist: Wu-tang Clan
Song: Wu-tang Clan Ain’t…, Protect Ya Neck., Shame on a nuh
Composer: Wu-tang Clan
Album: Enter The Wu Tang (36 Chambers)
Label: RCA/ Loud
Artist: RZA and The Black Keys
Song: The Baddest Man Alive
Composer: RZA/ Black Keys
Album: The Man With the Iron Fists OST
Label: Soul Temple
Artist: Wu-tang Clan
Song: Ruckus in B minor, Crushed Ego, A Better Tomorrow
Composer: Wu-tang Clan
Album: A Better Tomorrow
Label: Warner