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
NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 20: Rapper Ghostface Killah performs at Xbox party and concert at Discotheque February 20, 2004 in New York City. (Photo by Matthew Peyton/Getty Images for Microsoft)
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 of Wu-Tang Clan during X Box Live Presents the OutKast Diamond Party – Outside at Crobar in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
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.
(NETHERLANDS OUT) NETHERLANDS – OCTOBER 15: Photo of GHOSTFACE KILLAH (Photo by Lex van Rossen/MAI/Redferns)
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.
Ghostface Killah during Ghostface Gives Away Sleeping Bags To Homeless at The Bowery Mission in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
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.
On this date in 1970, Wu-Tang Clan swordsman and lyrical legend Raekwon The Chef was born in Staten Island, New York. The Staten Island-based emcee is one of Wu’s most celebrated artists, with his Only Built 4 Cuban Linx projects reaching cult-like following proportions. With his Wu blood kin, Rae has appeared on every WTC project since the group’s inception in 1992, leading up to their monumental debut single “Protect Ya Neck.”
As for the Chef himself, Rae has released six solo albums plus the Wu Massacre project featuring his PNC Ghostface Killah and Method Man. Rae has also appeared in a couple of silver screen hits, including the Hip Hop powered The Show and the race-baiting flick Black and White starring Wu-Tang manager Oliver “Power” Grant.
In 2009, Raekwon found religion and converted to Islam.
Happy born day to Shallah Raekwon, wishing him a great day and much more hereafter!
On this day in Hip Hop history, GZA of Wu-Tang Clan’s second album, Liquid Swords, was certified gold by the RIAA.
The album was initially released on Nov. 7, 1995. The LP was recorded entirely in the basement studio of fellow Wu-Tang Clan member RZA (who also produced 12 of the 13 tracks on the project) in Staten Island, New York. Much to the theme of previous Wu-Tang releases, this album consisted vastly of dialogue sampled from the kung fu film Shogun Assassin.
The tone of this project was quite dark and ominous while dropping bombs of knowledge and understanding of the physical world. The way GZA rapped on this album sounded like he was playing a game of chess against the listener. His lyrical genius attacks capturing pieces of their minds through his Asiatic philosophy.
RZA,leader of the legendary rap collective Wu-Tang Clan, is set to make history. The New York rapper will be honored with the TEC Innovation Award by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM).
RZA To Receive TEC Award
RZA is set to receive the TEC Innovation Award from the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) at the 2024 TEC Awards.
Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA to Receive 2024 NAMM Innovation Award at the TEC Awards https://t.co/yQqbBaSFcW
The prestigious award recognizes individuals who have pushed the boundaries of recording technology, and RZA will become the first hip-hop artist to receive this esteemed accolade. With his influential contributions to music and culture, RZA’s impact extends beyond hip-hop, inspiring countless music makers around the world.
RZA’s innovative and trailblazing approach to music production has earned him the recognition he truly deserves. As the mastermind behind Wu-Tang Clan’s renowned sound, he crafted a unique blend of booming beats, chilling samples, and influences from vintage soul records and kung fu movies.
This distinctive style provided the backdrop for the crew’s gritty narratives, and it all began with their groundbreaking debut album, Enter the Wu-Tang: 36 Chambers, which shook the rap world in 1993.
‘He Truly Deserves This High Recognition’
The NAMM President and CEO, John Mlynczak, expressed his admiration for RZA’s body of work, stating:
“RZA’s formidable talent and legacy of accomplishments are unquestionable. His lasting power in music extends beyond hip-hop, inspiring many music makers. He truly deserves this high recognition.”
This honor continues NAMM’s celebration of all genres of music that resonate across culture and society and follows The NAMM Show’s 2023 Hip-Hop 50 events that honored Chuck D and GrandMixer DXT. The NAMM Show will include many opportunities for live music and panels, including a performance by emerging female hip-hop artist Blimes, and sessions such as Innovate and Elevate: Exploring DJ Technology with DJ Hapa, as well as signature events such as the Parnelli Awards, She Rocks Awards, and many other industry gatherings.
The TEC Awards, where RZA will be presented with the Innovation Award, will take place on January 27, 2024, at the Anaheim Convention Center in California.
Wu-Tang In Vegas
In addition to this prestigious recognition, Wu-Tang Clan is gearing up for their own Las Vegas residency titled, “Wu-Tang Clan: The Saga Continues… The Las Vegas Residency.” They will be performing on February 9-10 and March 22-23.
Busta Rhymes Honored By New York State Assembly
One other rap legend that was recently honored was Busta Rhymes. The “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See” rapper was recognized and celebrated by the New York State Assembly in September 2023 for his contributions to hip-hop in his three-decade career.
Earlier this month, model Jayden Steele made a post on TikTok sharing a personal story of a time she was physically attacked. The post was an attempt to shed light on why it often takes so long for instances of abuse done by powerful figures to finally come out. While she didn’t initially name who she was talking about somebody in the comments guessed it correctly and she confirmed. The post was made about Wu-Tang Clan rapper Method Man.
Since then fans have had a full day to think about the circumstances and she their opinions on it. Some of those didn’t sit particularly well with Steele. She posted a new video clapping back against some of the “stupid comments” she’s received. First she discusses the victim blaming she’s experiencing being the exact reason that stories like this take so long to emerge. She went on to speak about the structure in place to keep powerful people protected against accountability for the things they’re accused of doing. In the process she also claimed that she was only telling part of the full story. Check out her response videos below.
In the comments of an Instagram repost of the video, fans have a variety of reactions. “I just know the innanet gon eat her up about Meth.. because they already be ready to tussle and shuffle with his wife,” one fan comments. It’s an attempt to explain why so many fans online are coming to the rapper’s defense so hard. Other comments seem to misunderstand the situation and claim that she should be going to the police. “I get it and not blaming you but it cost nothing to call the police,” and “I’m confused if you were assaulted don’t you go to the police you go to the record company?,” two comments read. They’re just some of the confused bunch occupying the comment section.
Method Man himself is yet to respond to the allegations. Just a few days before the claims were made, Wu-Tang Clan made a major announcement. They will be taking to Las Vegas early next year for a four show residency. What do you think about Jayden Steele’s response to various fans reacting to her claims of abuse against Method Man? Let us know in the comment section below.
Despite the collaborative spirit that exists on Wu-Tang Clan’s early work, on the production side of things, it was mostly a one-man job. RZA handled almost all of the production on the legendary group’s debut album and many of the solo projects that various members released following it. When he did have help from others it was always other members of the group, meaning almost no outside production work was done for the group for its first few years of existence.
During a recent appearance on the SiriusXM show HipHopNation, RZA explained his decision. “In the old days, I was very dominant. Like, it’s all my beats. And that’s because, in the old days, I didn’t feel that other producers were giving the Hip Hop type of beat that I thought was dope for Wu,” he says in the interview. He elaborated even further on his control of the group’s early days as well. He explained the deliberate choice to make listeners actually listen to the song rather than dance along to it. Check out the interview clip below.
In the decades since they debuted, Wu-Tang Clan’s influence hasn’t faded. The rap group have become legends whose influence as a group and as individuals is felt far and wide across hip-hop. There’s still a demand to see them play together as well. They just announced a short residency in Las Vegas early next year. The group will bring four performances to the city in February and March with tickets already on sale.
Recently, RZA spoke out in favor of Andre 3000’s recent artistic shift into ambient jazz music. TMZ caught up with him and he was quick to praise the former rapper’s new direction. He was even inspired by Andre’s new album New Blue Sun to try and release another instrumental album of his own. What do you think of the level of control RZA exercised over the Wu-Tang Clan in its early days? Let us know in the comment section below.
Wu-Tang Clan is gearing up to leave an indelible mark on Las Vegas with their exclusive residency. The iconic group recently announced their upcoming performances, promising a highly anticipated residency titled “Wu-Tang Clan: The Saga Continues… The Las Vegas Residency.”
Wu-Tang In Vegas
Wu-Tang Clan, the legendary rap collective known for their iconic contributions to hip-hop, is set to conquer Las Vegas with their residency.
In an announcement made on their social media accounts on Dec. 12, the legendary hip-hop collective revealed that they will be performing at the Virgin Hotels Las Vegas in Nevada for their highly anticipated residency titled “Wu-Tang Clan: The Saga Continues… The Las Vegas Residency.”
Are you ready? Wu-Tang Clan: The Saga Continues… The Las Vegas Residency @vhlvtheater will be the home of the Wu-Tang experience starting Super Bowl weekend.
This exciting event is scheduled to take place on February 9-10, during Super Bowl weekend, and on March 22-23, coinciding with The Men’s NCAA Basketball Tournament, also known as “March Madness.”
‘Hip-Hop Is Rich’
Users on social media platforms expressed their eagerness to witness the legendary group’s live performances.
One fan, @tyffmariedadiva, commented, “I definitely need to be in attendance,” while another user named @PhuckoffMatt remarked, “Well…. I’m definitely gonna see this. Wu Tang is forever and now in Vegas.”
RZA, the leader of Wu-Tang Clan, shared his enthusiasm for the residency in a statement to the New York Times.
“Hip-hop is rich in its content and what it offers creatively to an audience,” he said, adding that the nine-member group wants “to put it on flagpoles to show that hip-hop can go where any other art form has gone before.”
RZA also added that he hopes to “eventually invite more hip-hop artists to come and play in this sandbox with us, performing in Las Vegas.”
More Details
This exciting residency announcement comes after Wu-Tang Clan’s successful N.Y. State of Mind Tour, where they shared the stage with fellow rap legends Nas and De La Soul.
Pre-sale started on Dec. 12, at noon, and general admission sale will begin at 10 a.m. PST on Dec. 15. The Pre-sale code is “CREAM,” which is the name of their 1993 hit single.
Wu-Tang News
Wu-Tang Clan was honored in November 2023 when New York MayorEric Adams declared November 9 as “Wu-Tang Day.” The honor for Wu-Tang coincided with the 30th anniversary of their legendary 1993 debut album Enter The Wu-Tang: 36 Chambers.
In other Wu-Tang news, the group’s leader RZA hosted an orchestra symphony to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Enter the Wu-Tang: 36 Chambers. The orchestral tribute took place November 7-9 in New York City, and the orchestra played songs from the classic album.
Jodeci To Take Over Las Vegas
Just like Wu-Tang Clan, another legendary musical group, Jodeci, has announced its own Las Vegas residency for 2024. The R&B group’s residency, titled “Jodeci – The Show, The After Party, The Las Vegas Residency,” is set to take place from March 15 to March 25 and July 5 to July 13.
On this day in Hip Hop history Wu Tang Clan’s third studio LP The W was certified by the RIAA as a platinum LP. As the follow up to the immensely successful Wu Tang Forever, this album fell a little short of its predecessors success but continued in growing the Wu’s legacy as a whole.
At the time of the album’s production and release, Wu Tang member ODB was facing a legal-saga with seemingly no end. Although that may have stopped Dirt Dog’s ability to grace the album more than once, it did not however derail the Clan’s creative process and ability to execute. Much to the tone of their past work, The W once again proved that Wu-Tang is lyrically the strongest rap collective of all time. As far as production however, RZA toned down the intricate instrumentation used on Forever and went back to the 36 Chambers style of soulful samples coupled with melancholic drum patterns. This back to basic model allowed the Clan to stand out lyrically as they once did.
Commercially, the album was an international success. It peaked at #5 on the Billboard 200 as well as #1 in the UK and Ireland. The album won numerous Album of the Year awards from esteemed publications and is herald as one of Hip Hop’s greater albums.
Wu-Tang Clan is the latest iconic act to have a residency in Las Vegas. The residency will kick off during Super Bowl weekend.
Wu-Tang Clan: The Saga Continues … The Las Vegas Residency will start at the theater at Virgin Hotels on Super Bowel weekend, Feb 9-10, and March 22-23 for the NCCA tournament.
