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.
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Pioneer The Frontier
Wu-Tang Clan Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
We don't hunt deer
Vegetarian dishes from the concierge
Presidential suites, presidential treats
Brazilian models, oilin' up my feet
10 days a month, my girl pays for lunch
3 days a week, we work out at Crunch
Our stock increases, rhyme after rhyme
In the valley, of San Fernando
Found Q-Tip's wallet in El Segundo
Prolly been spotted on Telemundo
With more wild cards than a box of Uno
That spin like propeller, my dog like Old Yeller
Holler at the moon, my goons at Coachella
Enter the Wu-Tang zone
I got my hands in the pot, 500 grand in the yacht
I'm the dope man with plans to expand on every block
Wu-brand, legendary hands, hard as penitentiary rock
Now put that to your temple, the Wu symbol's 'bout to drop
Insert the beam on my Glock, got that lean in my bottle
What that mean? High self esteem, straight cream on the top
Ridin' chops similar to UFC kickbox, kick rocks
Dirty trucker pit stops, shit, grams in a Ziploc
Watch how the pitbull lock his jaws, then lock your doors
Feds watch the boards, hip hop spills out my pores
I be raw, 4 plus 4, but 7 more
The Clan rock the tours, we be them reservoir dogs
Pioneer the frontier
Guaranteed I bang hard
I plan to leave the game large, no brainwash
The devil himself could not persuade God, my blade's sharp
Circle my square, I dare you Braveheart
Before I leave your head in your hands, what's your name, huh?
My lines get in your cells like 7 Ls
Any problem, I address you like I'm sendin' you mail
Let me do well, they'd rather see me dead or in jail
But let it be my life story if they ever do tell
Know I died for what I live
An intimate connection for that infinite reflection
That's my wife and my kids, there's a price on my lid
So now my stock's high and shots fired
My niggas who was tight with the kid
I'm hot as Hell's Kitchen with the oven on
Deck bomb, teflon the rappers nothin' to a don
If I'm frontin' then respond
If not, throw up your arms, it's the Killer Bee swarm
And your set, the fuck is y'all?
You enterin' the 36, masterin' the 18
[?] chamber sixth, hands down, I crush bricks
Backs that'll break bats, this is what y'all wanted back
Classic Wu RZA track with mathematic actual facts
That weigh heavy, the universal strikin' attack
Dance the drunken medley, long axe blade, machete
The shallow steppin' ninja
Pioneer the frontier
The lyrics to Wu-Tang Clan's song "Pioneer The Frontier" touch on several themes, including success, wealth, power, and the perseverance of the Wu-Tang Clan. The opening lines of the song highlight the luxurious lifestyle they have achieved, with references to presidential suites, Brazilian models, and being able to afford expensive indulgences like having their feet oiled up. The lyrics also hint at a balanced lifestyle, with the mention of working out and taking care of their physical health.
As the song progresses, it delves into the Wu-Tang Clan's status in the music industry and their ability to consistently produce successful and influential music. They reference their stock increasing, implying that their reputation and popularity are on the rise. The lyrics then mention various locations like San Fernando Valley and El Segundo, highlighting their wide-reaching influence and fame.
The second verse shifts focus to individual rapper's skills and their determination to excel in their craft. They display confidence in their abilities by referring to themselves as the "dope man" and having legendary hands. The lyrics also touch on the constant scrutiny that comes with fame, mentioning that they are constantly watched by the authorities and that their life story is one that many would like to tell.
The final lines of the song emphasize the Wu-Tang Clan's resilience and the unity among its members. They describe themselves as a powerful force (the Killer Bee swarm) and challenge those who oppose them. The closing lines "entering the 36, mastering the 18" refer to the 36 chambers of the Wu-Tang Clan's debut album and their mastery of the 18 strategies of war.
Overall, "Pioneer The Frontier" showcases the Wu-Tang Clan's confidence, success, and willingness to push the boundaries of hip-hop.
Line by Line Meaning
Enter the Wu-Tang zone
Embrace the unique and powerful energy of the Wu-Tang Clan
We don't hunt deer
We don't engage in trivial pursuits; we focus on greater goals
Vegetarian dishes from the concierge
We enjoy the fruits of our success, indulging in luxury and exotic experiences
Presidential suites, presidential treats
We live the extravagant lifestyle of influential figures, enjoying the finest things
Brazilian models, oilin' up my feet
Surrounded by beautiful companions, we receive pampering and adoration
10 days a month, my girl pays for lunch
My partner supports and takes care of me, allowing me to focus on my pursuits
3 days a week, we work out at Crunch
We maintain our physical fitness and prioritize self-improvement
Time after time, line after line
Consistently and relentlessly, we strive for success through our creative work
Our stock increases, rhyme after rhyme
With each lyrical masterpiece, our reputation and value in the industry grow
In the valley, of San Fernando
Located in the region of San Fernando, where opportunities and inspiration thrive
Found Q-Tip's wallet in El Segundo
Discovering unexpected treasures and connections in unusual places
Prolly been spotted on Telemundo
Our fame and influence extend beyond conventional platforms, reaching diverse audiences
With more wild cards than a box of Uno
We possess a range of unpredictable and exciting elements, like a deck of wild cards
That spin like propeller, my dog like Old Yeller
We move and operate with great speed and loyalty, like a spinning propeller or a faithful dog
Holler at the moon, my goons at Coachella
We embrace a rebellious spirit, connecting with like-minded individuals at events like Coachella
I got my hands in the pot, 500 grand in the yacht
I am involved in various lucrative ventures, with significant wealth and assets
I'm the dope man with plans to expand on every block
I am a visionary entrepreneur, aiming to grow and dominate in all areas
Wu-brand, legendary hands, hard as penitentiary rock
The Wu-Tang brand represents legendary talent and strength, akin to impenetrable prison walls
Now put that to your temple, the Wu symbol's 'bout to drop
Prepare yourself for the immense impact and influence of the Wu-Tang symbol
Insert the beam on my Glock, got that lean in my bottle
I am armed and ready for any challenge, fortified with confidence and self-assurance
What that mean? High self-esteem, straight cream on the top
It signifies my unwavering self-confidence, solidifying my position at the pinnacle of success
Ridin' chops similar to UFC kickbox, kick rocks
Moving with the precision and intensity of a skilled UFC fighter, dismissing any negativity
Dirty trucker pit stops, shit, grams in a Ziploc
Engaging in risky and illicit activities, involving drugs packaged discreetly
Watch how the pitbull lock his jaws, then lock your doors
Witness the unstoppable force and power we possess, urging you to protect yourself
Feds watch the boards, hip hop spills out my pores
We are under constant surveillance, with our influence and impact extending beyond music
I be raw, 4 plus 4, but 7 more
My talent and skills are unmatched, surpassing expectations and norms by a significant margin
The Clan rock the tours, we be them reservoir dogs
The Wu-Tang Clan dominates the music industry with explosive performances, embodying the essence of power
Guaranteed I bang hard
I assure you that my impact and influence are significant and forceful
I plan to leave the game large, no brainwash
I have strategic plans to exit the music industry with immense success, free from manipulation
The devil himself could not persuade God, my blade's sharp
No external force or temptation can sway me from my righteous path, armed with my weapon of truth
Circle my square, I dare you Braveheart
Challenge me and test my resolve if you dare, just like the relentless bravery of William Wallace
Before I leave your head in your hands, what's your name, huh?
I will cause such destruction and defeat you so completely that you will be left in disbelief, questioning your own identity
My lines get in your cells like 7 Ls
The impact of my lyrics penetrates your being deeply, affecting you on a cellular level
Any problem, I address you like I'm sendin' you mail
I confront and handle any issue or challenge directly, just as if I were sending you a message
Let me do well, they'd rather see me dead or in jail
Despite my desire to succeed, there are those who would prefer my demise or incarceration
But let it be my life story if they ever do tell
If my enemies or critics do tell my story someday, let it be a testament to my impactful and inspiring life
Know I died for what I live
Understand that I am willing to sacrifice everything for the principles and beliefs I hold dear
An intimate connection for that infinite reflection
A deep and profound bond exists between myself and my art, representing an endless reflection of my truth
That's my wife and my kids, there's a price on my lid
My family is my utmost priority, and the responsibility I bear comes with a significant cost
So now my stock's high and shots fired
Having achieved great success and recognition, I am now the target of envy and competition
My niggas who was tight with the kid
My loyal friends and comrades who have always supported me
I'm hot as Hell's Kitchen with the oven on
I am on fire, radiating intense heat and energy, much like a kitchen with a blazing oven
Deck bomb, teflon the rappers nothin' to a don
I unleash explosive verses, impervious to any attacks from other rappers, insignificant in comparison to a Don
If I'm frontin' then respond
If my claims seem false or exaggerated, feel free to challenge and confront me
If not, throw up your arms, it's the Killer Bee swarm
If you acknowledge and accept my dominance, raise your hands in surrender to the unstoppable force of the Wu-Tang Clan
And your set, the fuck is y'all?
Questioning the relevance and power of those who oppose or stand against the Wu-Tang Clan
You enterin' the 36, masterin' the 18
You are stepping into the realm of the Wu-Tang Clan, learning and mastering their intricate techniques and knowledge
[?] chamber sixth, hands down, I crush bricks
Referring to the mysterious chamber six, I effortlessly demolish any obstacles or challenges in my path
Backs that'll break bats, this is what y'all wanted back
My powerful attacks can even break baseball bats, giving the audience the return they desired
Classic Wu RZA track with mathematic actual facts
Providing a timeless and iconic Wu-Tang RZA track filled with profound and intellectual truths
That weigh heavy, the universal strikin' attack
The weight and significance of our message and impact resonate universally, striking with great force
Dance the drunken medley, long axe blade, machete
We move with an unpredictable and intoxicating rhythm, wielding deadly weapons like long axes and machetes
The shallow steppin' ninja
We are swift and skilled warriors, stepping lightly through any challenge, leaving a lasting impression
Pioneer the frontier
We are leading the way, exploring uncharted territories and pushing boundaries in the world of music
Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: Robert Diggs
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Jeneral Jax 29
One of the best all time wu bangers!! Creeeeepin on that beat!!
Shetushov
Best song from the album !! Man the bee's, that wu kung fu movie sample, ODB on the back, the guitar, the killer orchestra song, only the fucking RZA could do this and of course the emcees spit verse like fire
matt f
Shit is knocking in my house since the day it came out.. best Wutang track since 8 Diagrams "Windmill"
Bert T.
They killed it with O.D.B. in the background!
Bert T.
Richter Belmont Old dirt was hilarious! watch this https://www.instagram.com/p/BNDoYLuAEG7/
C. Montoya
Yea I love how they sprinkled ODB throughout the album, made it seem like he was there too!
DeathWithinTenSteps
this beat fits u-gods flow like a fukn glove.
Strabo
Same, he murdered it. That flow
1Dub79
His verse is my favorite.
jamal bryant
Now this is the rza beat I love hearing, got all those grimey sample layers on one beat and mix it up