Best Wu-Tang Clan Members
This iconic group from Staten Island, New York, changed the face of hip-hop in the '90s, combining gritty lyrics with innovative production.The Wu-Tang Clan is unique in many ways, one being its large and diverse lineup of talented members. Each member brought something different to the table, adding layers of complexity to their collective sound. Some showcased their talents through their distinctive lyrical styles, others with their sharp, street-smart narratives, and still others with their abilities to switch up their flows and rhythms to the heavy, head-nodding beats.
Indeed, a great Wu-Tang Clan member is more than just a rapper - they're a storyteller, a poet, and an artist. They weave intricate narratives about life, struggle, and triumph in the streets of New York, painting vivid pictures with their words. They exhibit the ability to twist and bend language in innovative ways, using complex metaphors, punchy one-liners, and thought-provoking wordplay.
Their unique styles and personas also come into play. From the philosophical musing of GZA to the raw energy of Ol' Dirty Bastard, each member's distinct personality adds flavor to their verses and performances. Moreover, many members of the Wu-Tang Clan have also demonstrated their prowess as solo artists, showcasing their individual talents and versatility.
Also noteworthy is their impact on the group's signature sound. The Wu-Tang Clan is known for its gritty, lo-fi beats, and atmospheric production, largely thanks to RZA's genius. But it's the distinctive voices and flows of the members that breathe life into these tracks, creating the rugged, raw sound that Wu-Tang is known for.
GZA, also known as The Genius, born Gary Grice, is renowned for his philosophical lyrical style. His 1995 solo album "Liquid Swords" is often cited as one of the best hip-hop albums of all time, showcasing his sharp wit and intricate storytelling abilities. GZA had the best rhymes in Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers). Liquid Swords is the best solo album of the Wu-Tang. Only Built 4 Cuban Linx is just more celebrated than Liquid Swords because its sound is not as dark as Liquid Swords. But GZA has a perfect flow, perfect rhymes, and is a perfect lyricist.
Method Man has a groovy flow but not as good lyrics as GZA. And the best voice of the Clan definitely belongs to GZA. Nobody else has this dark, perfect voice. Hear Liquid Swords, and you will know who the best Wu member is.
Method Man, born Clifford Smith Jr., is known for his smooth, charismatic flow and his versatile acting career. He's been an integral part of the Wu-Tang Clan's success, and his performances on tracks like "C.R.E.A.M." and "Method Man" are iconic. His solo career has also been successful, with his debut album "Tical" going platinum. Method Man: a lot of people say his lyrics are bad but his flow is good. Well, if you listen to his first album, Tical, you will be proven wrong. Also, to the guy who said Eazy-E has a better flow, you can just go.
Easily the most talented member of the group.
Ghostface Killah, born Dennis Coles, has one of the most distinctive voices in hip-hop. His emotive delivery and vivid storytelling make him a standout member of the group. His solo album "Ironman" and the critically acclaimed "Supreme Clientele" solidified his position as a premier artist. RZA might have been the best lyricist, Raekwon might have been the best storyteller, and Method Man the best flow. But Ghostface is right behind all of them in their best fields. He's also the most consistent among all of them. Time has told who the best member is.
Flow, storytelling, and the most consistent in terms of solo work.
Ghostface is the best storyteller ever. And he is so handsome.
Inspectah Deck, born Jason Hunter, is often hailed for his complex, thought-provoking lyrics. His standout verses on tracks like "Protect Ya Neck" and "Triumph" show his ability to shine alongside his fellow Clan members. His debut solo album, "Uncontrolled Substance," was well-received. Inspectah Deck has the gift of writing. Raps start out in written form. He's one of the few who put me in the story with his lyrics. Not as abstract as RZA or as calculated as GZA, but elevated in his own way. Shines: Triumph, A Better Tomorrow, Hellz Wind Staff, The City.
He always set the tone. No one could compare. Method Man came close but couldn't compare.
Deck and Method Man had the best lyrics.
Raekwon, born Corey Woods, is often credited with bringing a cinematic quality to his lyrics, painting detailed pictures of street life. His solo album, "Only Built 4 Cuban Linx...," is considered a classic, showcasing his mafioso rap style. Sound quality. Lyrics. Style and energy. Hands down one of the greatest MCs in hip-hop. One person other rappers would love to collaborate with more than the other Wu-Tang members.
Raekwon for sure. He is really good and has the best flow and voice. For lyrics, I'll give that to GZA.
Raekwon has got to be the Wu-Tang's leader since the beginning.
RZA, born Robert Diggs, is the de facto leader of Wu-Tang Clan and the mastermind behind the group's distinct sound. His innovative, gritty production style laid the groundwork for the Clan's success. He's also had a successful solo career under his Bobby Digital persona. Unmatched raw style that brought roughness to the clan. Great lyricist, unmatchable flow (except by maybe Meth), one of the great producers ever, and the leader of the Wu-Tang Clan. Only Method Man and GZA come close to what RZA has achieved.
Lyrically he's not my favorite, but his beats are unmatched.
This one was difficult, but I simply had to pick the RZA, the man who formed the clan with the greats we know and love. It's basically a way of saying, "I can't decide."
Lyricism: GZA hits the checkmate. Sorry, Ghost.
Storytelling: Ghost scores a home run with this one. Simply too obvious.
Flow: Meth barely edges it over Ghost.
Originality: ODB, hands down.
Importance: Coin toss between Rae and Inspectah Deck. They are regulars amongst the Wu's finest work.
Overall: The RZA, because he was the one who took these guys along for the ride. Though Meth could have entered the game through Redman, it wouldn't have been the same without The RZA. Sorry, Ghost.
The RZA himself:
RZA is very similar to Dr. Dre and Kanye West. Though his flow is awkward and his lyrics are sometimes on point, he makes for a pretty interesting experience despite being the 6th or 7th strongest rapper out of the 10 main rappers in the Wu.
Ol Dirty Bastard, born Russell Jones, was known for his eccentric and unpredictable style. His off-kilter delivery on tracks like "Shimmy Shimmy Ya" and "Brooklyn Zoo" made him a standout member of the Clan. His impact on the group and the genre is still felt, despite his untimely passing in 2004. The reason he is not higher is because of his inconvenient incarcerations and untimely death. He had his own style like none other. Rest in peace, man.
He was a unique guy and downright funny. I get the impression he could make somebody laugh who is usually serious.
Shimmy Shimmy Ya and Brooklyn Zoo are amazing songs!
Masta Killa, born Elgin Turner, is known for his thoughtful, often socially conscious lyrics. He's the last member to release a solo project, with his debut "No Said Date" coming out in 2004, but it was well worth the wait, with the album receiving positive reviews. The most unknown of the entire crew. He has a nice, smooth flow and lyrical talent.
U-God, born Lamont Hawkins, is known for his deep, rhythmic voice. His standout verses on tracks like "Da Mystery of Chessboxin'" showcase his abilities. His solo career includes the critically acclaimed "Golden Arms Redemption." He has this sort of mellow but tough, prominent voice that fits in well with his fellow Wu-Tang.
His first solo album is pretty good, and he is kinda underrated.
Cappadonna, born Darryl Hill, is considered an unofficial member by some but his contributions to the Clan are undeniable. His distinctive, high-pitched voice and street-savvy lyrics add flavor to tracks like "Ice Cream" and "Winter Warz." His solo album, "The Pillage," was well-received.