The Wu-Tang Clan is one of the most celebrated rap groups the genre has ever seen. When you think of iconic hip-hop collectives, they are almost always the first one that comes to mind. From iconic tracks and the members’ impressive solo catalogs, they will always be remembered for their contributions. On top of their music, they have also been recognized as tremendous performers. Spectators at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas seemed to have agreed with that take, as Wu-Tang Clan will be returning for two more shows later this year. According to HipHopDX, the rap clan posted on the Instagram to announce the news.
“You brought the ruckus this weekend Vegas let’s do it all again September 27 & 28! The Saga Continues… Las Vegas Residency The Theater at Virgin Hotels will continue to be our home. Get there early to get the full experience.” The Wu-Tang Clan’s original run in Sin City was seven weeks and began in February.
If you are looking to purchase tickets for these shows here is all you need to know. If you are looking to get your hands on passes before the general sale, you will have that opportunity. Pre-sale will kick off tomorrow, March 27, at 10 a.m. PT. Wu-Tang provided a code to use at checkout as well, which is “CREAM.” Then, if you cannot get those early, regular tickets will be on the site at 10 a.m. PT Friday, March 29.
What are your thoughts on the Wu-Tang Clan getting two extra shows after their seven-week Las Vegas residency? Are they the greatest hip-hop group of all time, why or why not? Do you think they deserved the bonus performances? Were you able to see one of their shows? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding the Wu-Tang Clan. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on around the world of music.
DoesLil Rel Howery look like T-Pain? Some people think so!
The comedian and actor is best known for his role as Robert Carmichael in The Carmichael Show on CBS, as well as Rod Williams in the horror film Get Out. He also recently played a role in the release of Good Burger 2.
Last week during the BMF premiere in Los Angeles, The Source caught up with Lil Rel Howery about the moment he fell with Hip-Hop, getting mistaken for T-Pain, and more!
How many times have you been mistaken for T-Pain?
Oh wow. [laughs] More than you would think actually, which is weird. Me and T laugh at it all the time, but a lot more than you think. I think we should do something together, I’ma have to put him in one of my movies with me. We sound alike too. We sound like clones, it’s so weird.
What was the moment you fell in love with Hip-Hop?
Wow, that’s a great question. Honestly, I fell in love with Hip-Hop because of the weekend. I loved Hip-Hop before that, but when I fell in love with it was when I heard “Triumph” man. One of the best group songs ever created.
What’re you most excited for being here at the BMF premiere?
The one thing I’m most excited about is seeing the new episode! It’s a cliff-hanger for me. I love the show. When I saw Meech and his friend cut them off, I want to see how my mans react to that. Is he going to do something dirty? Is he bitter about it? It’s going to be very interesting, I can’t wait to see.
What else are you working on?
We got a movie coming out. We Grown Now out coming out of April with me and Jurnee Smollett, so excited about it. Then Harold and the Purple Crayon August 2nd, it’s for families. I showed it to my family a couple weeks ago. It’s going be a big movie this summer. Children are going to absolutely love it.
U-God, a prominent member of the iconic hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan, has made waves not only through his contributions to the legendary ensemble but also through his solo endeavors. As of 2024, his net worth stands as a testament to his success, with estimates placing it around $5 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Let’s delve into the factors that have contributed to this significant figure.
Formed in the early 1990s in Staten Island, New York, the Wu-Tang Clan quickly rose to prominence with their groundbreaking fusion of gritty lyricism, martial arts imagery, and innovative production. U-God, born Lamont Jody Hawkins, played a pivotal role in the group’s success, contributing his distinctive voice and lyrical prowess to iconic tracks such as “C.R.E.A.M.” and “Protect Ya Neck.”
The Wu-Tang Clan’s influence on hip-hop culture cannot be overstated, with their debut album Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) widely regarded as a masterpiece that redefined the genre. Their unique approach to lyricism, coupled with their enigmatic personas and larger-than-life stage presence, captivated audiences worldwide and cemented their status as one of the most influential rap groups of all time.
Solo Career & Ventures
Beyond his contributions to the Wu-Tang Clan, U-God has also forged a successful solo career, releasing several albums that showcase his distinctive style and storytelling prowess. His solo endeavors have allowed him to further showcase his versatility as an artist, exploring different themes and musical landscapes while staying true to his roots.
In addition to his music career, U-God has ventured into various other fields, including acting and entrepreneurship. His entrepreneurial spirit has led him to explore business opportunities outside of the music industry, further diversifying his portfolio and contributing to his overall net worth.
As we look to the future, U-God’s influence on hip-hop culture continues to resonate, as we’ve seen with their recent residency in Las Vegas, inspiring new generations of artists to push the boundaries of the genre. His contributions to the Wu-Tang Clan, both as a member and as a solo artist, have left an indelible mark on the music industry, earning him a place among the legends of rap.
With his net worth standing at an estimated $5 million in 2024, U-God’s success serves as a testament to the enduring power of talent, hard work, and perseverance. As he continues to evolve as an artist and entrepreneur, his legacy remains secure, ensuring that his impact on the world of music will be felt for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, U-God’s net worth reflects not only his contributions to the Wu-Tang Clan but also his entrepreneurial ventures and solo career. With a diverse range of talents and a relentless drive for success, he continues to inspire and influence audiences worldwide, solidifying his place as a hip-hop icon.
On this day in Hip Hop History in 1991, Wu-Tang Clan member GZA released his debut, pre Wu-Tang album Words From the Genius. This album was one of two pre Wu-Tang Clan albums from one of the members, the other being Ooh, I Love You Rakeem EP from RZA (then called Prince Rakeem).
This album was originally released under Cold Chillin’ Records. When asked about this release in an interview, GZA recalled:
“I was signed to Cold Chillin’ ’bout five years ago. They put out an album but didn’t promote it. They tried to put it out again last year [1994] after everything happened with the Clan, put a ’94 date on it, but still didn’t put any money behind it, so it didn’t sell twice. I’m still proud of it, though. The beats ain’t all that , but lyrically, s*** was bangin’. So it wasn’t all peaches and cream, but I was determined to break though. A quitter never wins, and a winner never quits. “
As GZA stated the album was re-released in 1994 with a updated track list and again in 2006 as an expansion version under Traffic Entertainment Group, the owner of majority of Cold Chillin’ Records’ catalog.
This particular project was not the usual hardcore, heavy sampled, Shaolin sound that any Wu-Tang fan would be accustomed to. The beat selection on this project is more leaning toward the classic boom-bap sound of the early 90s. His lyricism however is just as sharp as ever. The subject mater of this project is true to the name. GZA spits pure knowledge and righteousness regarding to everyday situations of an individual living in the projects of New York.
After this project, GZA went on to join the Grammy Award winning rap group Wu-Tang Clan, formed by his cousin RZA. He continued to have a successful career releasing six studio albums.
Corey Woods, better known by his stage name Raekwon, is a revered figure in the hip-hop industry, particularly for his work with the Wu-Tang Clan. But what is Raekwon’s net worth in 2024?
Raekwon’s Net Worth in 2024
As per Celebrity Net Worth, Raekwon’s estimated net worth in 2024 is around $6 million. This figure reflects his successful music career, spanning over three decades.
Raekwon’s Role In Wu-Tang Clan
Raekwon is best known as a member of the influential hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan. The collective’s groundbreaking albums, filled with Raekwon’s sharp lyrics and distinctive delivery, have contributed significantly to his wealth. Apart from Wu-Tang Clan, Raekwon has had a successful solo career. His debut solo album, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx…, is hailed as a classic, further enhancing his reputation and net worth.
Raekwon’s Entrepreneurial Endeavors
In addition to his music, Raekwon has ventured into business, launching a wine line named Licataa. This entrepreneurial effort has added another income stream, bolstering his net worth. Raekwon’s net worth is impressive, but his influence on hip-hop is even more significant. His lyrical prowess and unique style have inspired countless artists and solidified his legacy in the genre.
The Influence Of Raekwon
In conclusion, Raekwon’s net worth in 2024 is a testament to his long and fruitful career in hip-hop. With a net worth of $6 million, Raekwon is a prime example of how skill, hard work, and intelligent business decisions can lead to significant financial success. His journey motivates many, showing that one can achieve artistic acclaim and economic prosperity with dedication, creativity, and business sense.
Method Man, a renowned rapper, and actor, boasts an impressive amount of wealth, but what is his net worth in 2024? His journey to fame began in the 1990s as a member of the legendary hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan. Throughout his career, Method has expanded his portfolio, venturing into acting and entrepreneurship. This article will explore the various factors that contributed to the rapper/actor’s impressive net worth.
The rapper has an estimated net worth of around $14 million as of 2024, according to Wealthy Gorilla.
Wu-Tang Clan And Rise To Fame
Method Man, born Clifford Smith on March 2, 1971, in Hempstead, New York, started his music career as a founding member of the influential hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan. Their debut album, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), released in 1993, was a critical and commercial success. The album’s standout single, “Method Man,” helped launch the rapper’s solo career.
Solo Career And Music Ventures
In 1994, Method Man released his debut solo album, Tical, which included the hit single “All I Need,” featuring Mary J. Blige. The single won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 1996. Over the years he has released several solo albums and collaborated with numerous artists, such as Redman, with whom he formed a successful duo.
Method’s extensive discography, music sales, and concert performances are significant contributors to his net worth. As a respected figure in the music industry, he continues to be a sought-after collaborator and performer.
Method Man’s Acting Career
In addition to his music career, Method Man has found success as an actor. His acting debut came in 1998 with a small role in the film Belly. He went on to appear in various movies and television series, including The Wire, Garden State, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, The Deuce, and Power Book II: Ghost.
Method Man’s acting career has not only added to his net worth but also broadened his fan base and increased his visibility in the entertainment industry.
Business Ventures And Endorsements
Throughout his career, Method Man has partnered with various brands for endorsement deals, further contributing to his net worth. His unique blend of charisma, style, and talent make him an appealing choice for collaborations and promotional campaigns.
Philanthropy And Community Involvement
Method Man is not only focused on amassing wealth but also on giving back to his community. He has been involved in various charitable events and fundraisers, supporting causes such as education, healthcare, and disaster relief. By using his platform to raise awareness and funds for important issues, Method Man demonstrates his commitment to making a positive impact.
Method Man’s diverse talents and ventures have earned him a net worth of approximately $14 million in 2024. As he continues to explore new opportunities in music, acting, and business, it is likely that his net worth will continue to grow. Fans and critics alike are eager to see what the future holds for this multifaceted entertainer.
Conclusion/TLDR
In conclusion, Method Man’s net worth is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and adaptability in the entertainment industry. From his humble beginnings with the Wu-Tang Clan to his thriving solo career and ventures into acting, he has proven time and again that he is a force to be reckoned with. With his passion for creativity and his commitment to giving back, it is no surprise that Method Man has managed to build a substantial net worth and leave a lasting impact on the worlds of music and entertainment.
On this date in 1994, the legendary Staten Island, NY collective known as the Wu-Tang Clan released one of the crew’s most memorable songs to date; “C.R.E.A.M.(Cash Rules Everything Around Me)” from their debut album Enter The 36 Chambers.
Recorded in Firehouse studios in NYC, Wu-Tang Clan leader/advisor The RZA sampled The Charmels’ 1967 song, “As Long As I’ve Got You.” Since the WTC’s creation of this hit, “cream” became a slang term used for money in hoods all across the country and eventually the globe.
On January 29, 2009, “C.R.E.A.M.” was certified Gold by the RIAA for sales of 500,000 units, 15 years after it was first released.
According to groundbreaking publications such as Time Magazine and Rolling Stone, C.R.E.A.M. is regarded as one of the best rap songs of all time.
Wu-Tang Clan, the iconic Hip Hop collective, was formed in Staten Island, New York in the early 1990s. Known for their unique blend of gritty lyrics, martial arts imagery, and diverse personalities, the Clan introduced a distinctive sound that resonated with fans worldwide. They have since remained one of the most influential and revered groups in the history of Hip Hop. However, as the years have passed, members of the Wu-Tang Clan have pursued various solo endeavors. Moreover, they’ve faced both challenges and triumphs along the way. Nonetheless, they remain as close as ever, and are getting ready to embark on their highly anticipated 2024 Las Vegas residency. Let’s delve into where the individual members are now and assess the collective’s status.
The Wu-Tang Clan has evolved since their groundbreaking debut album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), released in 1993. The group initially included RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa, and the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard. The Clan became known for their innovative approach to rap and collaborative spirit. After the massive success of their first album, the Clan reunited in 1997 to release their second album Wu-Tang Forever. The album was another major success and the group went on to release the albums TheW and Iron Flag.
In 2004, the group went on a short European tour before they headlined the Rock the Bells Festival in California. Despite occasional disputes and solo pursuits, the members have consistently reconvened for various group projects and tours. In 2007, the Clan officially welcomed Cappadonna into the group. Furthermore, in 2007 and 2015, the Clan released three albums. These are: 8 Diagrams, A Better Tomorrow, and Once Upon A Time In Shaolin. However, while the group shone bright, the members’ individual careers have also been exceptional.
RZA
Robert Fitzgerald Diggs, also known as RZA, expanded his influence beyond music and into acting, film production, and martial arts. He is best known as the de facto leader and chief producer of the Clan. Overall, RZA played a pivotal role in shaping the distinctive sound of the Wu-Tang Clan. His production work on the group’s debut album is widely regarded as groundbreaking in the Hip Hop space.
In addition to his work with Wu-Tang Clan, RZA has pursued a successful solo career as a rapper and producer. He has released several solo albums, including Bobby Digital In Stereo, Birth Of A Prince, and Digi Snacks. RZA also extended his influence into the realms of acting and film production. He has acted in various films and television shows, including notable roles in movies such as Ghost Dog and American Gangster. Moreover, RZA has directed and co-written films, including The Man With the Iron Fists, which he also scored and produced the soundtrack for. Altogether, RZA’s versatility reflects his evolution as an artist, and he’s still going strong.
Gary Grice, popularly known as GZA and The Genius, is a rapper known for his sharp and intellectually charged lyrical style. Outside of the Clan, he maintained his reputation as a lyrical heavyweight. He made his solo debut in 1991 with the album Words From The Genius, predating the formation of the Wu-Tang Clan. His second album Liquid Swords solidified his reputation as a master lyricist.
GZA continued to release solo projects, including albums like Beneath the Surface, Legend Of The Liquid Sword, and ProTools. In 2020, he ventured into voice acting when he lent his voice to the character of Bad Billions in Netflix’s Kipo And The Age Of Wonderbeasts. His talents and contributions to Hip Hop culture have cemented his place as one of the genre’s most respected and enduring figures.
Born Clifford Smith, Method Man is a rapper and actor known for his contributions to the Wu-Tang Clan, as well as his prolific acting career. He made his solo debut with the album Tical in 1994. The album was not only well-received, but established him as a prominent figure in the 90s Hip Hop scene. He went on to release several other albums including 4:21… The Day After and The Meth Lab. He also collaborated with Redman, his frequent partner and lifelong friend, to release other projects like Blackout and How High.
Method Man also successfully transitioned into acting, with notable roles in films and television series. Some of his acting roles include appearances in movies like How High, Hood of Horror, and This is the Night and TV shows like The Wire, and Oz. Today, he’s turning heads and hearts as Davis MacLean in the Power series. Overall, Method Man has maintained a multifaceted career, balancing his roles as a rapper and actor.
Raekwon, whose real name is Corey Woods, is often referred to as “The Chef.” This is due to his frequent use of culinary references in his lyrics. Raekwon’s solo career took off with the release of his lauded debut solo album, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… in 1995. He continued to release solo projects and collaborate with other artists, including his Wu-Tang Clan brothers, maintaining his status as one of the influential figures in the rap scene.
Unlike his first album, the reception for his subsequent two albums, Immobilarity, and The Lex Diamond Story had mixed reviews. Nonetheless, he returned to great acclaim with his subsequent releases. In 2012, he launched Ice H20 Records, under which he released Fly International Luxurious Art and The Wild. Raekwon maintains a strong presence in the Hip Hop scene. His most recent album is 2017’s The Wild, which garnered exceptional praise.
Dennis Coles, professionally known as Ghostface Killah, has sustained a prolific solo career outside of Wu-Tang Clan, producing numerous albums that showcase his unique storytelling style. He made his debut in 1996 with the album, Ironman. Some of his other well-known albums include Fishscale, Apollo Kids, 36 Seasons, and Ghostface Killahs. Like many of his crew mates, Ghostface also ventured into acting. His screen credits include projects such as Big Wigs, Up and Above, Human Giant, and Luke Cage. However, his discography is often considered unmatched and comprises 13 studio albums, and five collaborative albums.
Jason Hunter, known by the moniker Inspectah Deck, contributed verses to many of the Clan’s classic tracks. His solo career kicked off in 1998. What followed were the albums, Uncontrolled Substance, The Movement, The Resident Patient,Manifesto, and Chamber No. 9. In 2013, he became a member of the supergroup Czarface, alongside Hip Hop duo 7L & Esoteric. The group has since then released over 10 albums, including projects like Double Dose of Danger, Super What?, and Czartificial Intelligence. While Inspectah Deck may not be as commercially prominent as some other Wu-Tang Clan members, he is highly respected within the Hip Hop community for his lyrical skill and production credits.
Ol’ Dirty Bastard
Russell Tyrone Jones, popularly known as Ol’ Dirty Bastard, was one of the founding members of the Wu-Tang Clan. He gained fame for his unique and eccentric style, both in his music and personality. He released his debut solo album, Return To The 36 Chambers: The Dirty Version in 1995, which included hits like “Shimmy Shimmy Ya” and “Brooklyn Zoo.” Throughout his career, he faced legal troubles and had several stints in prison. Some of his cases included second-degree assault, failure to pay child support, and shoplifting. In 2003, he was diagnosed with schizophrenia. Unfortunately, Ol’ Dirty Bastard passed away in November 2004. He is reported to have died of a drug overdose. Nonetheless, his legacy lives on through his contributions to the Wu-Tang Clan and his impact on the overall genre of rap. In summary, ODB remains an icon.
U-God, whose real name is Lamont Jody Hawkins, is a rapper known for his distinctive voice and lyrical style. He pursued a solo career and has released albums like Golden Arms Redemption, Dopium, The Keynote Speaker, and Venom. In 2018, he released his autobiography titled Raw: My Journey Into the Wu-Tang. U-God’s contributions to the Wu-Tang Clan and his solo career have awarded him icon status in the story of Hip Hop. Overall, U-God is one of the more low-key members of the group, opting to stay out of the spotlight.
Jamel Irief, known by the moniker Masta Killa, is popular for his laid-back flow. He was the last member to make a solo debut. He embarked on his solo career in 2004, with the album, No Said Date. Since then, he has continued to be an active soloist and member of the Wu-Tang Clan, participating in various group endeavors and collaborations. He has also released other projects, such as: Selling My Soul and Loyalty is Royalty.
Cappadonna, whose real name is Darryl Hill, was a Wu-Tang Clan affiliate in the 90s, but became an official member in 2007. He is known for his unique style, and streetwise lyrics. His first solo venture was in 1998 with the album, The Pillage. Overall, Cappadonna remains an integral part of the Wu-Tang Clan’s legacy and continues to contribute his talents to the group. With over 15 solo albums, and 10 collaborative albums to his name, Cappadonna breathes rap music, and is a solidified heavyweight in the game. His most recent project, African Killa Beez, was released in 2023.
Dennis Coles, popularly known as Ghostface Killah, is a revered figure in the hip-hop world. A key member of the legendary Wu-Tang Clan, Ghostface Killah hails from Staten Island, New York. His unique style and storytelling prowess have earned him a special place in the annals of rap music.
Evaluating Ghostface Killah’s Wealth
So, what is Ghostface Killah’s net worth in 2024? According to Celebrity Net Worth, the rapper’s wealth is estimated to be around $10 million US Dollars. This figure is a testament to his success in the music industry and his ventures outside of it.
Ghostface Killah’s net worth is primarily accumulated from his music career. With numerous albums under his belt, both as a solo artist and as part of the Wu-Tang Clan, he has generated considerable revenue from album sales and streams. His live performances and tours also contribute significantly to his wealth.
Beyond music, Ghostface Killah has ventured into several businesses to diversify his income streams. He has launched his own line of merchandise and has invested in tech startups, contributing to his overall wealth.
In spite of his wealth, Ghostface Killah has remained committed to giving back to his community. He has been involved in several charitable initiatives, particularly those aimed at supporting disadvantaged youth. While these endeavors may not directly boost his net worth, they certainly enhance his public image and indirectly contribute to his overall wealth.
Looking ahead, Ghostface Killah’s net worth seems set to grow further. With new music releases, business ventures, and potential collaborations in the pipeline, the rapper’s financial future looks promising. Given his talent and business savvy, Ghostface Killah’s $10 million net worth is likely to increase.
In conclusion, Ghostface Killah’s net worth is a reflection of his illustrious career in the music industry and his entrepreneurial ventures. His journey from the streets of Staten Island to a net worth of $10 million is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and business acumen. As he continues to make music and engage in business ventures, there’s no doubt that Ghostface Killah’s influence and wealth will continue to grow. His story serves as an inspiration, proving that talent combined with hard work and smart business decisions can lead to significant success.
The world has come to stand and acknowledge the 50-year mark of the assassination of a man who is defined as being the most influential civil rights leader in American history, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. On April 4, 1968, as he stood on the balcony of Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Dr. King was fatally struck with a bullet by James Earl Ray, an unlawful racist. The striking assassination of Dr. King follows a sturdy 14-year reign serving as a dominant figure in the civil rights movement fighting for the security of legal rights for African Americans. It was a fight drilled with nonviolence and civil disobedience, being burgeoned by the vile acts of racial segregation, disenfranchisement, and exploitation of all hanging from the centerfold of racism.
The powerfully symphonic voice of Dr. King in his iconic “I Have A Dream” speech delivered at the 1963 March on Washington sets the tone for emotional empowerment. It is currently the most sampled Dr. King audio recording in hip-hop history. In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr and his sound legacy. Here are nine hip-hop songs sampled by the legendary leader’s voice.
1. Sadat X “Return of the Bang Bang” (2010)
Reigning from the silver-tongued posse who is bound to their divine blackness is Sadat X of Brand Nubian on the solo tip with “Return of the Bang Bang.” The unorthodox emcee takes to the mic to drop insight about his daily journey as a seasoned vet returning to the game. In his signature abstract style, Sadat uses Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” passage to serve rightful diction in his tunnel of bars. “Return of the Bang Bang” is featured on Sadat’s 2010 sequel gem Wild Cowboys II.
2. Heavy D & the Boyz “A Better Land” (1989)
One of the golden era’s finest, the late Heavy D is pouring his soul out in rhyme in “A Better Land” with his boyz about improving the meager conditions of impoverished communities. The telling track starts with a sample of Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream” speech that ends with one of his most acquainted quotes, “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men, are created equal.”
3. Edo G feat. Masta Ace “Wishing” (2004)
Donald Trump is not the first President of the United States to be highly scorned by most of his country. Back in 2004, George W. Bush was in office, turning America’s dream into a nightmare with his jest-like measures. Edo G and Masta Ace took to the mic to release their wishes while demanding intrinsic change in the American way. After Masta Ace crops the title of a dreamer, Dr. King’s infamous line about his dream for freedom and justice in Mississippi hoards the track.
4. Cyhi Da Prynce “Ring Bellz” (2010)
Cyhi Da Prynce is honoring his cultural edge through the barrels of black history in “Ring Bellz” a song from his 2010 mixtape Royal Flush. While mixing his braggadocios persona with black excellence, the G.O.O.D. music wordplayer takes it from Fredrick Douglass to Stokely Carmichael, with the profound words from Dr. King’s beloved speech leading the track.
5. Common feat. will.i.am “A Dream” (2006)
Chicago’s renowned poet in rhyme Common teamed up with will.i.am of The Black Eyed Peas for a true hip-hop measure that reflects on the progression and condition of blacks in a known racist America, the way Dr. King stood sturdy for titled “A Dream.” Owning the same desire for nation zenith, just as King, it was sensible for the abstract collab to start with King’s pacifying “We gonna work it out” saying.
6. Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five “The King” (1988)
With Melle Mel being heralded as one of hip-hop’s earliest conscious rappers, the lingering legacy of Dr. King has certainly played a role during hip-hop’s infancy. The hip-hop pioneer rocks the mic with delight honoring the deeds of Dr. King by recognizing the Civil rights icon’s brightest accomplishments while calling for the bells of freedom. “He brought hope to the hopeless, strength to the weak.”
7. Wu-Tang Clan “Never Let Go” (2014)
Known for their supremely motivational rap hymns, the Wu-Tang Clan hit the masses with a dream driven tune in signature fashion. Docking off of their sixth studio album A Better Tomorrow is “Never Let Go” an ode to survival during challenging times. Before Masta Killa leads and after U-God anchors the track, a courteous potent chunk of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech is heard where the beloved leader makes one of his most bracing points, “For many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. And they have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom.”
8. Boogie Down Productions “Love’s Gonna Get’cha (Material Love)” (1990)
Emphasis is something KRS-One has mastered as a lyricist. Amid the prime of Boogie Down Productions‘ fourth studio album Edutainment comes its top single “Love’s Gonna Get’cha (Material Love),” a song that serves as a warning about the detrimental lust that comes with chasing after material things. To throw emphasis on “movin’ on,” the voice of Dr. King chanting the phrase from his final speech “I’ve Been to the Mountain Top.”
9. Immortal Technique feat. Chuck D, Brother Ali, and Killer Mike “Civil War” (2011)
Budding off of the musically factious Immortal Technique‘s 2011 compilation album The Martyr is “Civil War” featuring Chuck D, Brother Ali, and Killer Mike, an unapologetic effort to audibly express “trying to survive cultural assassination,” the great PE lead makes it clear in the chorus. The track samples a selection of King’s final speech, where the iconic leader encourages the destruction of fear in exchange for glory.
Dr. King’s call for sound justice fused into a faithful dream for African Americans has thrived its way into hip-hop culture out of the purpose of nature. The infancy of hip-hop culture is a result of movements that brewed during Dr. King’s time. Movements that were centered in the fight for justice and art of freedom such as the Black Panther Party and Black Arts Movement, who all commonly owned a desire to climb the path of racial justice. The youth of hip-hop’s beginnings dreamed of topnotch mobility out of the hood, reversing the culture of police brutality, and several cases of discrimination ceased. Now, since the culture has grown into a universal phenomenon, Dr. King’s dreamy element of justice is emblematic in hip-hop whenever he is sampled on a track.