Raekwon
The Chef of Wu-Tang, serving cinematic street epics from Staten Island.
Corey Woods, known globally as Raekwon (pronounced ray-KWON), is an American rapper and founding member of the Wu-Tang Clan. Born on January 12, 1970, in Staten Island, New York, he rose to prominence following the group's 1993 debut, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers). After launching a celebrated solo career with Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... in 1995, Raekwon became renowned for his "street epics" that are straightforward yet linguistically rich. Despite mixed receptions for Immobilarity and The Lex Diamond Story, he returned to critical acclaim with Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... Pt. II in 2009, an album likened by HipHopDX to The Godfather 2. He founded ICE H20 Records and is ranked among leading rappers.
- Character role
- Rapper
- Affiliation
- Wu-Tang Clan / ICE H20 Records
- Origin location
- Staten Island, New York
- Moniker origin
- Five-Percent Nation
- Signature style
- Street epics that are straightforward yet linguistically rich
- Status
- Active Member
Lore & Background
Raekwon's journey began in Staten Island, New York, where he was raised by his mother while his father struggled with addiction; the two met only once when Raekwon was six, a brief encounter where his father introduced him to his paternal grandmother before vanishing. After moving to Staten Island due to a robbery, Raekwon faced domestic turmoil, witnessing his mother abused and eventually being kicked out of their Park Hill home following an argument with her boyfriend. This period drove him into a spiral of hopelessness and violence until he became addicted to cocaine and crack. A turning point arrived after he was shot twice during a robbery or altercation, an event he described as an "important eye opener" that led to his sobriety and serious dedication to rapping. He has been a member of the Five-Percent Nation since his youth and attributes his stage name to the Five-Percent Nation; he has stated he is not Muslim but a Five Percenter.
Reader's Guide
Raekwon's discography includes his fifth solo LP, Shaolin vs. Wu-Tang (March 2011), which excluded RZA but featured appearances by Black Thought, Nas, and Rick Ross. He continued to release projects like the EP Lost Jewlry (January 15, 2013) and Fly International Luxurious Art (April 28, 2015). His 2017 album, The Wild, marked a return to form with positive critical reception from Pitchfork and Consequence of Sound, notable for being his first studio album without Wu-Tang Clan collaborations. Throughout his career, Raekwon has maintained a "street epic" style, writing lyrics in locations like Barbados and Miami, and collaborating frequently with Ghostface Killah. He founded Ice H20 Records in 2012 and remains an active figure in hip-hop.
Did You Know?
- Raekwon was shot twice during a robbery or altercation, an event he called an "important eye opener" that stopped his cocaine addiction.
- He met his father only once at age six; his father brought him to meet his paternal grandmother before sneaking out of the apartment forever.
- Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... was certified Platinum by the RIAA on December 9, 1997.
- The album Only Built 4 Cuban Linx... Pt. II was released on September 8, 2009, under Raekwon's label Ice H20 with EMI distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who represents the strategic mind within the Wu-Tang Clan?
Raekwon acts as a key strategist and core member who helps architect the group's lyrical operations. He brings a calculated approach to their music while maintaining his roots in Staten Island.
What is the significance of his nickname The Chef?
This title reflects his unique ability to cook up intricate rhymes using culinary metaphors throughout his verses. It highlights his role as a creator who adds specific flavor and depth to the clan's sound.
How did Raekwon impact hip-hop with his solo work?
His debut album is celebrated for its cinematic storytelling that immerses listeners in the gritty realities of street life. This project set a high standard for production quality and lyrical detail within the genre.
What distinguishes Raekwon's style from other members?
He is renowned for his vivid, movie-like descriptions and elegant delivery amidst chaotic themes. His focus on culinary imagery and precise storytelling sets him apart as a master of lyricism.
Is he currently part of the Wu-Tang Clan roster?
Yes, Raekwon remains an active member who continues to contribute to the group's legacy alongside his solo endeavors. He holds a permanent place within RZA's inner circle and the broader organization.
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