Historical past stood nonetheless over the weekend. The Wu-Tang Clan, one of many best hip-hop collectives music has ever seen, rocked the Wells Fargo Heart in Philly for what was promoted as their ultimate tour on U.S. soil. I used to be lucky sufficient to be there. This wasn’t only a live performance, it was a cultural communion. A second of maximum reverence. A time capsule. A victory lap of the surreal type. And, for many people, it was a full-circle expertise.
What unfolded was an unreal, masterfully orchestrated show of greatness. Wu-Tang Clan proved, as soon as once more, that they’re not simply icons of Hip-Hop—they’re the embodiment of all issues Hip-Hop. LL COOL J was there. Lauryn Hill was there. Philly’s personal Freeway was embraced like a hometown mayor. We, the followers, confirmed up in full pressure. It was a smorgasbord of humanity. Followers from each stroll of life co-existing in peace. Each race, age, and background—Black, white, Asian, South Asian, Latino and extra. Youngsters who weren’t born when Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) dropped have been standing subsequent to OGs from the ’70s. RZA requested the gang after they have been born and each period was represented—loud and proud.
It wasn’t misplaced on me that the present caught strictly to Wu-Tang group materials. There have been no solo album joints carried out. There have been 9 (10 if you happen to embody Cappadonna) distinct voices, 9 philosophies, 9 flows converging to type one thing otherworldly. RZA, the conductor, led the night time like the final he’s confirmed to be. A pair instances he poured champagne on the gang, however it wasn’t offensive. It felt like a symbolic toast to a 30-year championship run by a proud coach.
The present flowed so fluidly. Meth performed hype man for LL, Rae and Ghost shared the stage with Lauryn Hill and ODB’s son Younger Soiled Bastard introduced his father’s spirit again to life in essentially the most uncanny method. However one misstep bothered me. Each member acquired a metropolis proclamation…besides Ol’ Soiled Bastard. That stung. If any spirit deserved formal acknowledgment, it was his. The essence of Wu isn’t entire with out ODB. His son deserved to simply accept that honor on his behalf. Previously, I used to be blessed to satisfy and briefly interview him. He was so particular.
Nonetheless, Wu’s legacy was on full show. From the ocean of W logos on shirts, hoodies and jackets. This was a congregation and we have been in church.
I believed again to my DJ days, spinning “Defend Ya Neck” on neighborhood radio, feeling like I used to be a part of one thing seismic. Again then, Wu was focusing on campuses and indie radio, constructing a grassroots base. Now, a long time later, I’m taking part in The Emperor’s New Garments, Raekwon’s new album, en path to see them in what could also be their final collective stand. That’s wild.
This present additionally reminded us of how Hip-Hop can age gracefully. Not neutered and never overly clear. Trendy. Assured. Raekwon got here out trying like a vogue week ambassador, however it was a reminder that that elder statesmen in Hip-Hop don’t should put on fits to be dignified.
In addition they reminded us of accountability and what being grown appears like after 50. RZA used his platform to talk on neighborhood violence, selling unity and peace. He name-checked Biggie, Pac, Nip and others. Warriors are sometimes meant to evolve into smart males.
I noticed the brotherhood. When one MC faltered even barely, one other jumped in seamlessly. That’s actual love: the very basis Hip-Hop was constructed on.
They left nothing behind. They handed the torch and provided the blueprint. It’s as much as us now to hold on the tradition, to guard it, to honor the usual they set.
Wu-Tang taught us that being fly, being good, being radical and being uncooked should not contradictions. They exist in the identical cipher. Household is greater than blood. It’s additionally the crew that goes to conflict with you, help you and the people who rally behind you whenever you want it essentially the most.
Salute to the Wu-Tang Clan. Thanks. For the music. For the message. For the reminiscences. You could by no means tour once more, however the legacy will proceed on.
Wu-Tang ceaselessly.
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