The founders of the Wu-Tang Clan were RZA, GZA, and Ol' Dirty Bastard, who had previously formed the group Force of the Imperial Master (later known as All In Together Now after the release of a popular single by that name). The group attracted the attention of some notable figures in the industry, including Biz Markie, but did not manage to secure a record deal. After the crew dissolved, GZA and RZA (then known as Prince Rakeem) embarked on their solo careers with Cold Chillin' Records and Tommy Boy Records respectively, but to little success. Their frustration with the workings of the hip hop music industry would provide the main inspiration to Wu-Tang Clan's revolutionary business plan. According to The Wu-Tang Manual, at the group's inception, RZA promised the members that if he had total control of the Wu-Tang empire, it would conquer the hip hop world within a dynastic cycle, after which he would relinquish his total control.
Wu-Tang Clan was gradually assembled in late 1992 from friends and accomplices from around Staten Island, New York, with RZA as the de-facto leader and the group's main producer. Two of the cousins, GZA (pronounced Jizza) and RZA (pronounced Rizza), created their new Wu-Tang aliases by mimicking the sound that the words "genius" and "razor" would make when scratched on a turntable.
"Wu-Tang" comes from the name of the Taoist holy mountain Wu Dang in northwest Hubei Province in central China; it was also the site of the Ming Dynasty Purple Imperial City built during the reign of the Yongle Emperor in the early 15th century. RZA and Ol' Dirty Bastard adopted the name for the group after seeing the kung fu film Shaolin and Wu Tang, which features a school of warriors trained in Wu-Tang style. The group's debut album loosely adopted a Shaolin vs. Wu-Tang theme, dividing the album into Shaolin and Wu-Tang sections and using dialogue excerpts as skits.
The group have also developed various backronyms for the name (as hip hop pioneers like KRS-One and Big Daddy Kane did with their names), including "We Usually Take All the Niggas' Garments," "Witty Unpredictable Talent and Natural Game" and "Wisdom, Universe, Truth, Allah, Nation, and God".
Method Man has also mentioned that the "Wu" is the sound a sword makes when cutting through the air, and "Tang" is the sound it makes against a shield.
The Clan first became known to hip hop fans, and to major record labels, in 1993 (see 1993 in music) following the release of the independent single "Protect Ya Neck", which immediately gave the group a sizeable underground following. Though there was some difficulty in finding a record label that would sign Wu-Tang Clan while still allowing each member to record solo albums with other labels, Loud/RCA finally agreed, releasing their debut album, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), in late 1993. This album was popular and critically-acclaimed, though it took some time to gain momentum. Though hip hop had long had a gritty texture, the surreal aggression and minimalist production of 36 Chambers nevertheless had a huge impact on the genre, and was to prove massively influential over the next decade. By the beginning of the 21st century, the album had become a regular fixture on "Best Albums of the 90s" lists as well as a frequent choice for "Best Albums of All Time" lists. The success of Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) established the group as a creative and influential force in early 1990s hip hop, allowing GZA, RZA, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Method Man, Ol' Dirty Bastard, Inspectah Deck, U-God, and Masta Killa to negotiate solo contracts.
www.wutang-corp.com
Pinky Ring
Wu-Tang Clan Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Don't erase none of that good shit in the beginnin'
Yo, spill drinks on ya, get stank on ya
Yo, yo, pinky ring shit, yo
That pinky ring shit yo
It's that pinky ring shit, the legend of masked kid
Shoot out the speakers when my guns get Jurassic
The vandal's back, hands on Angela Bassett
I handle my plastic, gun play I mastered
No coke, dope mixed down with acid on record
Broken down and crafted in seconds
Lady's choice, the golden voice still peppered
Better, respect it, bitch believe
I pull rabbits out the hat, tricks up my sleeves
I air out the showroom, the shit can breathe
Fix your weave, behold my expertise
I got my Uzi back, you dudes is wack, face it the Wu is back
I got my Uzi back, you dudes is wack, face it the Wu is back
Take it back to the leanin' gettin rec room punch
We in them authentic alley switchin' joints
Major general niggas, five stars
Both arms rock when coke dropped we read a hundred niggas palms
Silencers, garbage bags of hash
For every cop we paid retired now the nigga on smash
Gash you out your burner fast
You swing down hatin' me now respect get your fingers off the glass
I got my Uzi back, you dudes is wack, face it the Wu is back
I got my Uzi back, you dudes is wack, face it the Wu is back
Yo what the fuck yo?! Yo what the fuck y'all comin' for?
Get the fuck away from my door!
We got big guns in here, coke over there
With blue bag and E pills stashed under the chair
And there's Boss Hog black and white pit with the pink lips
Stan thought he was soft 'til he bit his fingers
The shit had me dyin' yo, big fat nigga bleedin'
Big cat nigga all season
On the beach truck, stuck with Hawaiian ice
Diamond twice the whole city thought I bought Fubu
Blew you, authentic doodoo, picture the fog iced out
Eighteen karat rap between noodles
I got my Uzi back, you dudes is wack, face it the Wu is back
I got my Uzi back, you dudes is wack, face it the Wu is back
Up at Killa Bee headquarters, full rips is poured up
I saw Johnny sippin' Henny from a iced out cup
Yo with the blunt, two-way vibratin' off the hip
I sit took, three drags off the honey-dip
Now what you talkin'? You see my gold fronts sparkin?
Ain't tryin to hear what you dogs be barkin
Read the headline, that was blast on today's Post
Dead King, thought he could ace Ghost
Queen, couldn't even jack Monk
Probably find him in Doc Doom's back trunk
Bdoodoodoo! I'm up at the Wu library
Readin Malcolm's, "Any Means Necessary"
John John, Bacardi straight up hold the ice
So nice like New York they had to name him twice
Name your price, I black out then change the lights
Give you the same advice that I gave my wife
Don't fuck with mine, Clan give you lumps in nine
Let the smoke cloud clear so the sun can shine
Culture shock, for some of us that's all we got
Whether you ball or not, you can all be shot
New York, New York, legendary rhyme boss
Code name Charley Horse, bust with blind force
I smash set it and wreck for cash credit or check
You crabs test, can't measure the threat
I dance on a nigga like my name's Zab Judah
Rap barracuda, three XL kahuna
Sure to get it perkin' and cause a disturbance
I'm thirstin', feel what I feel then we can merge then
Creep it through the states in V8's and 12's
My weight's hell, fuck with me then brace yourself
The Noble, Sir I mass mogul
Known to blast vocals, and move global on you locals
This is grown man talkin', coward I split your head
I'm from the East where the streets run red from the bloodshed
Hit Chef for the rice and peas
'Nuff respect Father E tumbled at ease
My brothers can't wait to squeeze the automatic
They need wreck like a drug dealer need a addict
Floatin' on the 95, sting like a killer bee
Your hands can't hit what your eyes can't see
From dark matter to the big crunch
The vocals came in a bunch without one punch
Rare glimpse from the, strictly advanced, proved unstoppable
Reputation enhanced, since the cause was probable
So you compare contrast but don't blast
Through extreme depths, with the pen I hold fast
Watch the block thirst for one became all
Shot 'em with the long forgotten rainfall
Delivered in a brutal fashion with simplicity
The blind couldn't verify the authenticity
The rhyme came from the pressure of heat
Then it was laid out, on the ground to pave streets
I got my Uzi back, you dudes is wack, face it the Wu is back
I got my Uzi back, you dudes is wack, face it the Wu is back
The Wu-Tang Clan's Pinky Ring is an ode to their reputation for being a group of skilled and unapologetic rappers. The song starts with a boastful comment about leaving drinks and stains on individuals, followed by the reference to the "pinky ring." The "pinky ring" is a metaphor for the Wu-Tang Clan's superior and unique position in the music industry. The lyrics throughout the song are assertive and showcase their individual skills as MCs. The lines, "Take it back to the leanin' gettin rec room punch," is an allusion to the origins of rap music, where young men would beatbox and freestyle in the recreation room of a housing complex in New York City.
One of the intriguing aspects of Pinky Ring is the references made throughout the song to various pop-culture icons such as Angela Bassett, Dolemite, and The Incredible Hulk. The song also pays homage to Malcolm X, whose famous speech "Any Means Necessary" is mentioned. In addition, the lines, "The blind couldn't verify the authenticity" suggests that regardless of any criticism the Wu-Tang Clan faced, their legacy, and what they stood for, would remain untouchable.
Line by Line Meaning
Yo, yeah
Listen up, pay attention
Don't erase none of that good shit in the beginnin'
Don't forget or disregard the important things that happened in the past
Yo, spill drinks on ya, get stank on ya
I'll disrespect you and make you feel embarrassed
Yo, yo, pinky ring shit, yo
This is that prestigious and luxurious lifestyle
That pinky ring shit yo
It symbolizes power, wealth, and success
It's that pinky ring shit, the legend of masked kid
This represents the iconic and mysterious persona of the artist
Shoot out the speakers when my guns get Jurassic
My music is so powerful and impactful, it feels like a weapon
Superbad, who am I? Dolemite classic
I'm as cool and iconic as the legendary character Dolemite
The vandal's back, hands on Angela Bassett
I'm causing chaos and leaving my mark, just like a rebel. Also, I'm in control and confident like Angela Bassett
I handle my plastic, gun play I mastered
I'm skilled and proficient in using firearms
No coke, dope mixed down with acid on record
I create unique and mind-altering music without needing drugs
Broken down and crafted in seconds
I can create incredible art quickly and effortlessly
Lady's choice, the golden voice still peppered
I'm highly desired and respected as an artist, and my voice is still impressive
Better, respect it, bitch believe
You better acknowledge and show respect for my talent
I pull rabbits out the hat, tricks up my sleeves
I surprise and impress people with my skills and creativity
I air out the showroom, the shit can breathe
I bring freshness and new energy to the music industry
Fix your weave, behold my expertise
You need to fix your appearance and appreciate my mastery
Take it back to the leanin' gettin rec room punch
Let's go back to the old days of partying and having fun in the rec room
We in them authentic alley switchin' joints
We're in the real streets, making moves and switching locations
Major general niggas, five stars
We're highly ranked and respected in the streets
Both arms rock when coke dropped we read a hundred niggas palms
When we make a move, everyone pays attention and follows our lead
Silencers, garbage bags of hash
We operate in secrecy and have large quantities of drugs
For every cop we paid retired now the nigga on smash
We've successfully evaded the law and now we're on top
Gash you out your burner fast
I'll quickly disarm and defeat you in a fight
You swing down hatin' me now respect get your fingers off the glass
Stop criticizing or hating on me and show some respect
Yo what the fuck yo?! Yo what the fuck y'all comin' for?
Why are you bothering me? Why are you approaching me?
Get the fuck away from my door!
Leave and stay away from me
We got big guns in here, coke over there
We have powerful firearms and drugs
With blue bag and E pills stashed under the chair
We've hidden illegal drugs in a discreet location
And there's Boss Hog black and white pit with the pink lips
I have a tough and loyal dog by my side
Stan thought he was soft 'til he bit his fingers
Someone underestimated me until they experienced my true power
The shit had me dyin' yo, big fat nigga bleedin'
I found it hilarious when an overweight guy got injured
Big cat nigga all season
I'm a dominant and formidable adversary all year round
On the beach truck, stuck with Hawaiian ice
I'm driving a fancy vehicle and displaying my luxury items
Diamond twice the whole city thought I bought Fubu
My jewelry is shining so brightly that people thought I bought the Fubu brand
Blew you, authentic doodoo, picture the fog iced out
I metaphorically defeated you and showcased my genuine and valuable possessions
Eighteen karat rap between noodles
My lyrics are valuable and precious, hidden intricately within my rhymes
Up at Killa Bee headquarters, full rips is poured up
I'm at the Wu-Tang Clan's headquarters, surrounded by skilled and talented individuals
I saw Johnny sippin' Henny from a iced out cup
I witnessed someone enjoying a luxurious lifestyle and sipping Hennessy from an extravagant cup
Yo with the blunt, two-way vibratin' off the hip
I have a marijuana joint and a two-way pager, always ready and connected
I sit took, three drags off the honey-dip
I calmly took three puffs of the attractive woman's blunt
Now what you talkin'? You see my gold fronts sparkin?
Do you see my shiny gold teeth and the way they sparkle? What are you saying now?
Ain't tryin to hear what you dogs be barkin
I'm not interested in listening to your complaints or criticism
Read the headline, that was blast on today's Post
Look at the news headline that exposed and criticized me
Dead King, thought he could ace Ghost
Someone thought they could surpass or defeat me, but they were wrong
Queen, couldn't even jack Monk
Someone couldn't even compete or compare to me
Probably find him in Doc Doom's back trunk
They'll likely discover the person hidden in the trunk belonging to the villain Doctor Doom
Bdoodoodoo! I'm up at the Wu library
I'm at the Wu-Tang Clan's headquarters, where knowledge and wisdom are valued
Readin Malcolm's, 'Any Means Necessary'
I'm reading Malcolm X's influential book, learning about fighting for justice
John John, Bacardi straight up hold the ice
A person named John is confidently drinking Bacardi without any mixers
So nice like New York they had to name him twice
He's so exceptional and renowned, they mention his name twice like the famous nickname for New York City
Name your price, I black out then change the lights
I can become ruthless and unpredictable when necessary
Give you the same advice that I gave my wife
I'll give you the same warning or guidance that I gave to my wife
Don't fuck with mine, Clan give you lumps in nine
Don't mess with my family or crew, we have guns and will cause harm
Let the smoke cloud clear so the sun can shine
Let the negative situations or conflicts dissipate, allowing positivity and progress
Culture shock, for some of us that's all we got
Experiencing different lifestyles and environments can be overwhelming, but it's all we know
Whether you ball or not, you can all be shot
Regardless of status or success, everyone is vulnerable and can face danger
New York, New York, legendary rhyme boss
I represent and dominate the rap game in New York City
Code name Charley Horse, bust with blind force
My code name is Charley Horse, and I attack with powerful and unstoppable force
I smash set it and wreck for cash credit or check
I destroy and conquer any opponent for financial reward
You crabs test, can't measure the threat
You insignificant individuals try to challenge me, but you can't comprehend the danger
I dance on a nigga like my name's Zab Judah
I confidently dominate and overpower my opponents, just like the boxer Zab Judah
Rap barracuda, three XL kahuna
I'm a fierce and aggressive rapper, a heavyweight in the game
Sure to get it perkin' and cause a disturbance
I'm guaranteed to provoke and create chaos
I'm thirstin', feel what I feel then we can merge then
I'm craving success and recognition, and if you understand and support me, we can collaborate
Creep it through the states in V8's and 12's
I'm discreetly traveling across different states in powerful and luxurious vehicles
My weight's hell, fuck with me then brace yourself
I possess immense power and influence, so be prepared if you challenge me
The Noble, Sir I mass mogul
I'm a respected and influential figure, a successful mogul
Known to blast vocals, and move global on you locals
I'm recognized for my impactful and powerful rap verses, and I'm expanding my influence worldwide
This is grown man talkin', coward I split your head
I'm speaking with maturity and authority, and I would easily defeat a coward
I'm from the East where the streets run red from the bloodshed
I come from a violent and dangerous environment
Hit Chef for the rice and peas
I asked Chef, a member of the Wu-Tang Clan, to prepare a traditional Jamaican dish
'Nuff respect Father E tumbled at ease
I show great respect to Father E and he effortlessly prepares the food
My brothers can't wait to squeeze the automatic
My companions are eager to use their guns
They need wreck like a drug dealer needs an addict
They desire destruction and violence, it's their addiction
Floatin' on the 95, sting like a killer bee
I'm smoothly traveling on the highway, ready to strike like a deadly bee
Your hands can't hit what your eyes can't see
You can't physically harm me if you can't locate or catch me
From dark matter to the big crunch
From the mysterious and unknown parts of the universe to its ultimate collapse
The vocals came in a bunch without one punch
My lyrics and delivery are powerful and impactful
Rare glimpse from the, strictly advanced, proved unstoppable
This is a unique and exceptional view of my advanced and unstoppable talent
Reputation enhanced, since the cause was probable
My reputation and influence have grown because my actions and skills are justifiable
So you compare contrast but don't blast
You can analyze and compare, but don't criticize or try to compete
Through extreme depths, with the pen I hold fast
I can navigate and excel through difficult situations using my writing skills
Watch the block thirst for one became all
Everyone in the neighborhood desires and idolizes me
Shot 'em with the long forgotten rainfall
I metaphorically struck and conquered my enemies with a surprise attack
Delivered in a brutal fashion with simplicity
I communicate ruthlessly and directly, without unnecessary complexity
The blind couldn't verify the authenticity
Even those who can't fully perceive or understand can still recognize and acknowledge my genuine talent
The rhyme came from the pressure of heat
My powerful and compelling lyrics were inspired by intense pressure or struggle
Then it was laid out, on the ground to pave streets
Finally, my lyrics were shared and spread to influence and shape the streets
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Downtown Music Publishing
Written by: Dennis David Coles, Robert F. Diggs, Lamont Hawkins, Jason Hunter, Clifford Smith, Corey Woods, Gary E. Grice, Russell T. Jones, Clarence Reid, Elgin Evander Turner
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind