Released: 1993 • Features: RZA, Inspectah Deck, Method Man
“Wu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing ta F’ Wit” by the Wu-Tang Clan is an audacious anthem of potency, ambition, and mastery. This hard-hitting track showcases the distinctive, unapologetic and complex lyrical style that shot this legendary Hip-Hop group into the global spotlight. Each verse brims with cultural references, complex wordplay, and boastful assertions of dominance, reinforcing Wu-Tang’s place at the apex of Hip-Hop.
Before diving deep, the term ‘Tiger Style’ is an allusion to the martial arts movies the Wu-Tang clan were influenced by. It’s an aggressive strategy that embodies the raw and lethal energy they bring to the hip-hop game. The recurring chorus, “Wu-Tang Clan ain’t nuthin’ ta fuck with”, underscores their conviction about their undeniable impact and prowess in the industry.
The first verse by RZA kicks off the lyrical onslaught with a blend of cinema, comic-book, and pop culture references. “Dr. Doom” is a Marvel comics villain, symbolizing RZA’s destructive lyrical ability. The “Richard Dawson” line is a nod to the host of ‘Family Feud,’ suggesting they cause more disputes with their rap game. “Flying Guillotine” refers to a renowned Kung-fu movie indicative of their lethal lyrical chops. “Super Cat” is a famous dancehall artist, pushing the narrative that their music makes people dance.
The verse by Inspectah Deck is a metaphor-laden lyrical spectacle that layers meaning and message. His line “I slam tracks like quarterback sacks from L.T” is a shout-out to Lawrence Taylor, one of the greatest NFL linebackers, suggesting his hard-hitting lyricism. He also presents himself as a culinary master with the phrase “I bake the cake, then take the cake”, hinting at his ability to create and dominate in the rap game.
Method Man’s verse is a maze of unpredictable rhymes and rhythms. His reference to “Rollo”, a character from the TV show ‘Sanford and Son’, is a call out to his own signature hairstyle. There’s also an admission of his legendary status in the comparison to the ‘Sleepy Hollow’ fictional character. The line “I’m rubber, niggas is like glue” is a classic retort indicating resilience, suggesting any negative comments bounce off them.
The closing section, a shoutout spree by RZA, underlines the love and respect they have garnered around the globe. It paints a canvas of their extensive influence, name-checking various locations and individuals, including The Source magazine and Zulu Nation, an international hip hop awareness group founded by Afrika Bambaataa.
In essence, “Wu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing ta F’ Wit” is a declaration of supremacy, rich in flamboyance, defiance, and deep-seated roots in the streets, with each artist bringing forth a unique, raw style reflective of the overall formidable Wu-Tang Clan persona.
