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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Uzi
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 ? 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 vivid 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 “Uzi (Pinky Ring)” is a hip-hop song that celebrates the group’s return to the music industry after a hiatus from producing new music. The lyrics describe the Wu-Tang Clan’s rise to fame and discuss the essential role of their weapons and way of life. The lyrics’ first lines address the importance of keeping the beginning of the music, as they believe it is the “good shit.” Wu-Tang Clan highlights several key symbols throughout the song, such as their pinky rings, representing their immense wealth, and Angela Bassett, a symbol of the group's resilience in the entertainment industry.
The song also grapples with the theme of power and how it is acquired through illegal means such as selling drugs, carrying guns, and engaging in criminal activities. Wu-Tang Clan also makes several cultural references throughout the lyrics, including to Dolemite and Doc Doom, characters in Blaxploitation and Marvel Comics, respectively. The song comes to an end with a verse that speaks to how the Wu-Tang Clan sees the world and the need to protect their own against other rival groups. Overall, “Uzi (Pinky Ring)” is an upbeat and nostalgic song for fans of the Wu-Tang Clan, which highlights the brand's history and culture.
Line by Line Meaning
Yo, yeah
Listen up, pay attention
Don't erase none of that good shit in the beginnin'
Don't forget the origins and foundations of our success
Yo, spill drinks on ya, get stank on ya
I'll mess with you, make you uncomfortable
Yo, yo, pinky ring shit, yo
Let me show you the luxurious lifestyle
That pinky ring shit yo
That symbolizes wealth and power
It's that pinky ring shit, the legend of masked kid
This lifestyle represents an iconic and mysterious figure
Shoot out the speakers when my guns get Jurassic
My words are powerful and have a lasting impact
Superbad, who am I? Dolemite classic
I am exceptionally cool, just like the classic character Dolemite
The vandal's back, hands on Angela Bassett
I am causing chaos again, I have control and influence like Angela Bassett
I handle my plastic, gun play I mastered
I skillfully use my weapon, I am an expert in violence
No coke, dope mixed down with acid on record
My music is raw and unfiltered, mixed with intense and experimental elements
Broken down and crafted in seconds
I can create something impactful and impressive in a short amount of time
Lady's choice, the golden voice still peppered
I am still popular and respected among women, my voice is smooth and captivating
Better, respect it, bitch believe
You better show me respect, don't doubt my abilities
I pull rabbits out the hat, tricks up my sleeves
I surprise and impress others with my talent and creativity
I air out the showroom, the shit can breathe
I show off my skills and give others a chance to shine
Fix your weave, behold my expertise
Get yourself together and witness my mastery
Take it back to the leanin' gettin rec room punch
Return to the days of partying and having fun in the rec room
We in them authentic alley switchin' joints
We are in the real streets, navigating through dangerous situations
Major general niggas, five stars
We are powerful leaders, with top-ranking status
Both arms rock when coke dropped we read a hundred niggas palms
We excel in drug dealing, predicting the future for many people
Silencers, garbage bags of hash
We operate silently, carrying large amounts of drugs
For every cop we paid retired now the nigga on smash
We bribed the police, now they are no longer a threat
Gash you out your burner fast
I will take your weapon away from you quickly
You swing down hatin' me now respect get your fingers off the glass
Stop being jealous and show some respect, keep your hands away from my success
Yo what the fuck yo?! Yo what the fuck y'all comin' for?
Why are you bothering us? What do you want?
Get the fuck away from my door!
Leave me alone, stay away from my personal space
We got big guns in here, coke over there
We possess powerful weapons and drugs
With blue bag and E pills stashed under the chair
We have hidden bags of drugs, specifically ecstasy pills, under the chair
And there's Boss Hog black and white pit with the pink lips
There is a tough and aggressive pitbull with unique features
Stan thought he was soft 'til he bit his fingers
Someone underestimated my toughness and got hurt in the process
The shit had me dyin' yo, big fat nigga bleedin'
I found it hilarious, seeing a big person bleeding
Big cat nigga all season
I am dominant and successful at all times
On the beach truck, stuck with Hawaiian ice
In my luxurious vehicle, with precious jewels
Diamond twice the whole city thought I bought Fubu
I am so wealthy that people mistake me for owning the brand Fubu
Blew you, authentic doodoo, picture the fog iced out
I defeated you, leaving you in a state of disbelief, imagine the impressive image
Eighteen karat rap between noodles
My rap style is pure gold, squeezed between ordinary rap
Up at Killa Bee headquarters, full rips is poured up
I am in the headquarters of the Killa Bee group, fully prepared
I saw ? sippin' Henny from a iced out cup
I witnessed someone drinking Hennessy from an extravagant cup
Yo with the blunt, two-way vibratin' off the hip
I have a marijuana cigarette, and my pager is constantly receiving messages
I sit took, three drags off the honey-dip
I took a seat and had three puffs of a attractive woman's joint
Now what you talkin'? You see my gold fronts sparkin?
What are you saying? Do you see my shiny gold teeth shining?
Ain't tryin to hear what you dogs be barkin
I am not interested in listening to your meaningless complaints
Read the headline, that was blast on today's Post
Read the news headline, something explosive happened recently
Dead King, thought he could ace Ghost
A former influential figure died, thinking he could surpass my greatness
Queen, couldn't even jack Monk
A powerful woman couldn't even challenge my subordinate
Probably find him in Doc Doom's back trunk
He is most likely trapped in the trunk of Doc Doom's car
Bdoodoodoo! I'm up at the Wu library
I make the sound 'bdoodoodoo'! I am at the Wu-Tang Clan's headquarters
Readin Malcolm's, 'Any Means Necessary'
I am reading Malcolm X's book titled 'Any Means Necessary'
John John, Bacardi straight up hold the ice
Call me John John, I only drink Bacardi without ice
So nice like New York they had to name him twice
I am so great, just like New York City which is often referred to as 'New York, New York'
Name your price, I black out then change the lights
You can determine how much you want to pay me, when I perform, the lights go out and then come back on
Give you the same advice that I gave my wife
I will give you the same advice I give to my wife
Don't fuck with mine, Clan give you lumps in nine
Do not mess with my group, Wu-Tang Clan, we will harm you
Let the smoke cloud clear so the sun can shine
Give it some time, let the controversy settle down and things will improve
Culture shock, for some of us that's all we got
Some of us only have the shock and disruption of our cultural experiences
Whether you ball or not, you can all be shot
No matter how successful or important you are, anyone can be a target
New York, New York, legendary rhyme boss
New York City, known for producing legendary rap artists
Code name Charley Horse, bust with blind force
My code name is Charley Horse, I attack forcefully without seeing
I smash set it and wreck for cash credit or check
I dominate and cause destruction for monetary gain
You crabs test, can't measure the threat
You fools try to challenge me, but you underestimate my danger
I dance on a nigga like my name's Zab Judah
I move quickly and skillfully, just like the boxer Zab Judah
Rap barracuda, three XL kahuna
I am a fierce rapper, like a barracuda, and I am large and in charge
Sure to get it perkin' and cause a disturbance
I will definitely attract attention and create chaos
I'm thirstin', feel what I feel then we can merge then
I am craving success, only when you understand my desires can we work together
Creep it through the states in V8's and 12's
I travel smoothly across different states in powerful vehicles
My weight's hell, fuck with me then brace yourself
I am heavy and dangerous, if you challenge me, be prepared for the consequences
The Noble, Sir I mass mogul
I am a noble and influential person, I have great power and wealth
Known to blast vocals, and move global on you locals
I am recognized for delivering powerful lyrics and expanding my influence worldwide
This is grown man talkin', coward I split your head
Listen to the wisdom of an adult, I will harm you if you are weak
I'm from the East where the streets run red from the bloodshed
I come from the violent streets of the East, marked by frequent violence
Hit Chef for the rice and peas
I meet up with Chef to get some Jamaican food
Nuff respect Father E tumbled at ease
Much respect to Father E, he succeeded without difficulty
My brothers can't wait to squeeze the automatic
My companions are eager to use their firearms
They need wreck like a drug dealer need a addict
They crave violence, just like a drug dealer needs an addict
Floatin' on the 95, sting like a killer bee
Driving smoothly on the highway, striking powerfully like a deadly bee
Your hands can't hit what your eyes can't see
You cannot physically harm me if you cannot perceive my movements
From dark matter to the big crunch
From the unknown mysteries of the universe to its eventual collapse
The vocals came in a bunch without one punch
The lyrics were delivered quickly and powerfully, without hesitation
Rare glimpse from the, strictly advanced, proved unstoppable
A rare opportunity to witness something extraordinary, showcasing unstoppable talent
Reputation enhanced, since the cause was probable
My reputation and respect increased, because it was likely to happen based on past success
So you compare contrast but don't blast
You can analyze and compare, but don't attack
Through extreme depths, with the pen I hold fast
I navigate through challenging situations, holding onto my writing ability
Watch the block thirst for one became all
Witness how the neighborhood craves for unity as one individual rises to prominence
Shot 'em with the long forgotten rainfall
I metaphorically attacked them with forgotten and unexpected force
Delivered in a vivid fashion with simplicity
Expressed in a clear and impactful manner
The blind couldn't verify the authenticity
Even those who cannot see can recognize the realness of my words
The rhyme came from the pressure of heat
This rap came from the intense and challenging environment
Then it was laid out, on the ground to pave streets
I shared my lyrics, laying them out for others to follow and be influenced by
I got my Uzi back, you dudes is wack, face it the Wu is back
I have regained my power and influence, you are weak and insignificant, acknowledge the return of the Wu-Tang Clan
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