Today In Hip Hop History: Method Man’s Debut Album ‘Tical’ Turns 30 Years Old!

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On this day in Hip-Hop history, Method Man released his debut solo LP Tical. Sticking to RZA’s plan on industry domination, Method was the first to roll out his solo LP after the ridiculous success group debut Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers). In the early years of the Wu, Method Man had grown become the public face of the group. His larger than life persona and a multitude of styles won over the hearts and ears of fans after the groups first single “Protect Ya Neck” had “Method Man” on it’s B-side.

Tical delves deeper into the sinister villainous style previewed on 36 Chambers. Method Man creates a dark anti-hero on this album who hungers for the career of wack rappers and perpetrators. It was truly a violent introduction to one of the most outrageous members of the Wu, second only to ODB in theatrical personality.

Considered a “two-man show” by critics, the album was almost entirely produced by RZA. As the Wu’s architect, RZA created specific sounds for each member. Method unique sonic was the most film inspired. Meth continued to build a character likened to the many crime bosses and master villains that starred in his beloved Kung-Fu flicks. Aside from the image, lyrically the album is on another level. Method Man flawlessly juggles synonyms and metaphors with a flow that weaves in and out of the beat to create a hardcore symphony of Shaolin style.

Commercially, the album was a hit and only added on to the cipher of success revolving around the Wu-Tang Clan. The album peaked at #4 on the Billboard 200 and #1 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop chart selling a million copies within a year of its release. It kick-started a wave of successful solo albums and keep afloat RZA’s five-year plan to becoming the greatest rap group in history.

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GZA & Method Man Gave Us A Classic “Shadowboxin’” Class Almost 30 Years Ago: Stream

29 years ago today – on November 7, 1995 – GZA dropped one of the best ever Wu-Tang Clan solo albums with Liquid Swords. Of course, there are a lot of highlights to name, whether that’s the “4th Chamber” posse cut with Ghostface Killah, RZA, and Killah Priest or the vivid “Cold World.” However, to celebrate the classic LP’s anniversary, we decided to highlight “Shadowboxin’” featuring Method Man, an essential Wu cut with a relatively unique sonic identity compared to their usual fare.

Thanks to RZA’s excellent flip of eerie tones, slick guitar licks, and simple drums on “Shadowboxin’,” this is one of the most hauntingly gentle, icy, and hypnotic songs not just on Liquid Swords, but also in GZA, Method Man, and the wider Wu-Tang Clan’s catalog. The Genius’ emphatic and raw middle verse pairs perfectly with “The Workload” MC’s more menacing and cold feature verses. It’s also very interesting to see just how well this beat fits into today’s hip-hop context, especially given the clash of more light melodic elements with the Wu grit that so many continue to try to emulate.

For these reasons and many more, it’s easy to see why Liquid Swords has endured in the hip-hop canon in the strong and gradually more reverent fashion that it has. If you’re looking to revisit this classic, then we’d recommend you spin GZA and Method Man’s “Shadowboxin’” if you aren’t playing the whole thing front to back. Find it on your preferred streaming service or check the music video out on YouTube below. Down there, you can also find some standout bars and the comments section for you to join in the festivities. For more throwback gems from the rap world, come back to HNHH.

Read More: Run The Jewels & GZA Lyrics Cited During Trump Impeachment Trial

GZA’s “Shadowboxin’” With Method Man: Stream & Watch The Music Video

Quotable Lyrics
Protect your neck, my sword still remains imperial,
Before I blast the mic, RZA scratch off the serial,
We reign all year ’round from June to June,
While n***as bite immediately, if not soon

Read More: Method Man Reveals His Problem With Rare Wu-Tang Clan Album

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Skyzoo Drops New Single “The Workload” Featuring Method Man

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The idea for “The Workload” came after Method Man & Redman’s festival performance this past summer, with the iconic duo putting on a masterclass of hip-hop, but feeling disconnected from the younger generation; due to them not understanding the greatness they were witnessing.  When Meth said he was done with a certain demographic, I understood his stance, as me growing a Wu loyalist left me frustrated with how that all played out.  Thus, “The Workload” was born. 

Using that moment to show the somehow mislead of this era what they’re out of touch with; a legend in the truest sense.  It was an honor to craft this record with Meth, putting on a lyrical clinic, all while giving him his flowers in the same breath,  Cartune produced the record and when I heard it, the energy of Meth’s post-concert response seemed to fit the tone of the beat.  Fast forward a few months later and here we are.

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Skyzoo & Method Man’s Pens Are On Needlepoint On “The Workload”

One of the more underappreciated writers from the East Coast is back with a fiery vengeance and he’s not alone. We are talking about Brookyn, New York rapper Skyzoo and Method Man and they are here to show everyone again how clever their pen games are. “The Workload” is their first-ever collaboration and we are so thankful they decided to combine their talents. Hopefully, it continues because this is an excellent start to what could be a beautiful work relationship in the future. Their wealth of experience shows as Skyzoo and Meth rip off impressive one liners and double entendres left and right.

Some of the Wu-Tang Clan member’s are below, but here are some from Skyzoo just to give you an extra taste. “I can pen your doom or I can lead you where the plaques are / Catch me fully loaded rolling I click it and clear the fog / You listen to the quotes my Essentials is Fear of God.” Overall, it’s a thrilling track from start to finish from a lyrical perspective alone. However, we would be remiss to not mention the work done by Cartune Beatz. It’s dark, ominous, and intimidating just like Skyzoo and Method Man are on the track. On November 29, the former will be dropping Keep Me Company, and we are thrilled this will most likely be on it.

Read More: Metro Boomin Sued By Woman For Allegedly Assaulting And Impregnating Her

“The Workload” – Skyzoo & Method Man

Quotable Lyrics:

Black heart that part I spit they backwash
Try and mark you out for you mark us now that’s smart
Our dogs go to heaven like DMX, I’m that dark
Paper on the table with guns drawn now that’s art
My profile says I’m a pro with the pronouns
It’s protocol to give ’em the pros and cons I’m profound

Read More: Lil Durk Is Reportedly In “Great Spirits” In Miami Prison

[Via]

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Method Man’s TICAL Brand Releases Official Luxury Storage Lockbox

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]Backed by legendary Hip Hop icon and original Wu Tang swordsman Method Man, TICAL Official is a lifestyle brand known for it TICAL Box and Merchandise, which has been receiveing a lot of looks on social media.

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The luxury lockbox is handcrafted and comes with a certification of authenticity signed by Mef himself as well as a healthy list of items for your everyday lifestyle needs. The merchandise, which consists of hoodies, hats, shirts and various accessories are all made from designs hand chosen by Johnny Blaze himself and actively worn by him and his inner circle while on tour.

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All of the merch can be found at buytical.com

The post Method Man’s TICAL Brand Releases Official Luxury Storage Lockbox first appeared on The Source.com.

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Method Man Says There Is No Correlation Between Diddy’s Downfall And Hip-Hop Culture

Method Man and Diddy have been peers in the East Coast hip-hop scene for over 30 years. Meth, along with Wu-Tang Clan, helped further a street-oriented style of hip-hop that sounded as rough as Staten Island was in the 1990s. Diddy was the man behind Bad Boy Records, whose star MC, The Notorious B.I.G., helped advance the commercial viability of hip-hop with a formula of radio-ready records and deep cuts that rappers still follow today. Meth and Big even did a track together on Ready To Die, called “The What.” On Thursday afternoon, TMZ asked Method Man about Diddy’s ongoing downfall. The interviewer asked if it was something that could damage hip hop culture. Meth pushed back against the notion, imploring fans to draw a line between one man’s behavior and the rest of the genre.

“I don’t think that it has anything to do with hip hop,” Method Man told TMZ. “What are we talking about here, really?” The reporter tried to claim that Diddy’s influence may make it hard for some non-listeners to make a separation between him and the rest of hip-hop. “It has nothing to do with hip hop,” he asserted. “I don’t see the correlation.” The Wu-Tang rapper then drew a parallel between Diddy and R Kelly’s crimes, adding that there are still a number of people who listen to Kelly’s music.

Read More: U.S. Attorney Reveals Text Messages Between Diddy And Alleged Victims

Method Man Addresses Claim That Diddy’s Actions Will Have Negative Effects On Hip-Hop

 
 
 
 
 
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The internet agreed with Method Man’s assertion. Many comments pointed to the power dynamic between Diddy and his alleged victims. Diddy has long been one of the most powerful men in entertainment. Artists who’ve spoken out against him have had their careers negatively affected. Others called out the quality of the question. “He ready to get home to Mrs. Smith. That man ain’t got time for foolishness,” said one user. “Did the Harvey Weinstein situation threaten the end of Hollywood? How does this question even make sense?” asked another.

Diddy was arrested on Monday night, following a lengthy investigation that began when ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura sued him for domestic abuse. Footage of Diddy physically assaulting Ventura leaked to TMZ earlier in the summer. The Department of Homeland Security raided his residences in Miami and Los Angeles in March. The courts recently denied bail to the disgraced mogul, who pleaded not guilty to charges of racketeering and sex trafficking. He proposed a bail package that included one of his houses and his mother’s home. He will remain in jail until his trial begins. A date hasn’t been set yet.

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STARZ Announces Premiere of ‘Fat Joe Talks’ with Method Man as Inaugural Guest

STARZ Announces Premiere of 'Fat Joe Talks' with Method Man as Inaugural Guest

STARZ has revealed that its first weekly interview series, Fat Joe Talks, will debut on Friday, October 4. The premiere episode will feature award-winning artist and actor Method Man, star of Power Book II: Ghost, as the inaugural guest. Host Fat Joe will delve into Method Man’s NAACP Image Award-winning role as Davis MacLean, exploring his reflections on the character following the conclusion of the hit series.

The conversation between the two hip-hop legends also touches on their shared history from the 1990s, Wu-Tang Clan’s enduring influence, and Method Man’s ability to balance his public career with family life. Filmed in Staten Island, Method Man’s hometown, the episode will feature locations meaningful to his journey.

“I’ve been preparing all my life for the moment to host my own show and it’s finally here,” Fat Joe said. “We are going to make history and I’m grateful to STARZ, Embassy Row and SpringHill for believing in the vision. I’m looking forward to showing another side of my personality and having compelling conversations with some of the world’s most influential leaders and entertainers. Get your popcorn ready.”

New episodes of Fat Joe Talks will air every Friday at midnight on the STARZ app and 9 PM ET/PT on STARZ in the U.S. Guests include Mary J. Blige, Hakeem Jeffries, T.I., Babyface, Latto, Buju Banton, and Remy Ma.

Fat Joe, the series’ host and executive producer, brings his charismatic approach to interviewing high-profile celebrities, diving into untold stories and cultural moments that shaped their lives.

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Method Man Asks Fans To Separate Diddy’s Downfall From Rap Culture

Method Man and Diddy have been peers for over three decades. They both helped to pioneer the East Coast sound in the 1990s. Even if they were on different ends of the spectrum. Meth was cultivating an underground sound with Wu-Tang Clan. Diddy, meanwhile, was the architect of the uber commercial Bad Boy sound. Method Man was cornered by TMZ on Thursday, and asked whether Diddy’s downfall was something that was going to damage hip hop culture as a whole. He was seemingly baffled by the notion. He urged fans to draw a line between one man’s behavior and an entire genre.

“I don’t think that it has anything to do with hip hop,” Method Man told TMZ. “What are we talking about here, really.” The reporter tried to clarify that Diddy’s influence over the genre may make it hard for some outsiders to make a separation. Again, Method Man wasn’t buying it. “It has nothing to do with hip hop,” he asserted. “I don’t see the correlation.” The Wu-Tang rapper then drew a parallel between Diddy and the controversy surrounding R. Kelly. He rightfully pointed out that Kelly’s music, and R&B as a whole, is still thriving despite his crimes. “If we’re talking about music and creative and stuff,” Meth noted. “There are people still listening to R. Kelly sh*t.”

Read More: Method Man Reveals His Problem With Rare Wu-Tang Clan Album

Method Man Believes Hip Hop Is In A Healthy Place

Method Man has tried to stay out of the Diddy drama over the years. He did, however, go semi-viral on TikTok when he shared a story involving the Bad Boy mogul. He claimed he ran into Diddy at the House of Blues in the 1990s. The Wu-Tang rapper recalls Diddy getting touchy with him, and urging him to get in his car to go to a party. “There’s no way I’m getting in that motherf*cking car,” he explained to the Hot 97 hosts. Meth had a much closer relationship with Diddy’s protege, The Notorious B.I.G. In fact, he was the only rapper featured on Biggie’s classic debut, Ready to Die (1994).

Method Man was nearly dragged into Diddy debacle in 2023. 50 Cent posted a video in which Meth said he didn’t like Kanye West. The reasoning was that Method Man allegedly witnessed Ye perform oral sex at one of Diddy’s now infamous parties. The Wu-Tang veteran responded to 50’s post and made it clear that no such incident took place. “This video fake 5,” he wrote on IG. “You and Diddy keep me out of this sh*t. The real vid is on YouTube .. do your research.”

Read More: Method Man Clarifies His Summer Jam “Generation Gap” Comments

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Method Man Claims He’s Never Been Paid For Streaming Royalties

Method Man has got classics on deck. He’s got solo hits, collab hits with Redman, and dozens of iconic songs with the Wu-Tang Clan. According to Spotify, he has over three million monthly listeners. And yet, he hasn’t been paid a dime in streaming royalties. The rapper dropped a bombshell during his recent appearance on Hot 97. Method Man admitted that he was unsure of how the streaming infrastructure works, before noting that he’s still waiting on money from platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.

Method Man was asked about the prevalence of AI, and the rapper admitted he was hesitant to co-sign. He cited Drake’s usage of AI to recreate Tupac’s voice on “Taylor Made Freestyle.” The rapper chose to shift the conversation to other aspects of the music industry, though. Aspects that have impacted huge names from the 1990s, in particular. “Honestly, I’ve never gotten a streaming check for any of my music,” he told the host. “I’m still trying to figure it all out.” This is not the first time Method Man has gone on the record to discuss his financial issues with the industry.

Read More: Method Man Reveals His Problem With Rare Wu-Tang Clan Album

Method Man Is Still Trying To Understand Streaming

In 2018, the rapper addressed the long-standing financial situation in Wu-Tang Clan. The iconic group does not split things evenly between members. Instead, pay is broken down on a tier-basis, with some members earning more than others when it comes to albums and tours. Method Man talked about this system during an appearance on Howard Stern. “You can look at it as you have some individuals who make a certain amount as an individual,” he explained. “But when they’re with the group they’re makin’ three, four times the amount that they would make.”

Method Man has also attempted to rectify royalty situations on his own. In 2022, the rapper teamed up with Intercept Music to launch a platform that would protect independent artists. “Forging a powerful partnership with Method Man,” wrote Intercept chairman Ralph Tashjian. “Intercept underscores the value and promise of artistic emancipation in today’s creator economy.” The goal of Intercept was to provide independent artists with monthly revenue payments, and Meth became the face of the whole operation. The company is still active today.

Read More: Method Man Clarifies His Summer Jam “Generation Gap” Comments

[via]

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.38 Spesh Releases New Single Feat. Method Man “Speshal Methods”, Announces New Project

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38 Spesh has announced that his forthcoming project Mother & Gun will be released on 8.16.24.  To set things off, Spesh has dropped the project’s first single, “Speshal Methods,” featuring Method Man and Ti-Lar Bee.  “Speshal Methods” is produced by Jimmy Dukes and is now available. 

38 Spesh shared his excitement about the collaboration with Method Man, saying, “I found out Meth was a fan of my music when he mentioned my name in an interview, and so I immediately reached out to him to get a record done.”  Trust Gang & Wu-Tang is way overdue; as Method Man’s iconic flow & Spesh’s signature sound is sure to resonate.

Mother & Gun is a testament to 38 Spesh’s evolution as an artist and a producer, showcasing his unique blend of gritty storytelling and sharp lyricism; it’s a narrative journey reflecting 38 Spesh’s experiences and the realities of life in upstate NY. Mother & Gun features appearances and production from Method Man, Havoc, Benny The Butcher, Lloyd Banks, StreetRunner, Che Noir, and Jimmy Dukes.

The post .38 Spesh Releases New Single Feat. Method Man “Speshal Methods”, Announces New Project first appeared on The Source.

The post .38 Spesh Releases New Single Feat. Method Man “Speshal Methods”, Announces New Project appeared first on The Source.