Wu-tang clan

Name: Ghostface Killer
Other names: Ghost, Sun-God, Ironman
Gambino name: Tony Starks
Real name: Dennis Coles
Album(s): "Ironman" The Ironman, or Ghostface as most know him, emerged onto the scene with the Wu-Tang's debut album and has never looked back. Full of energy and bursting at the seams to express that energy, Ghost has become one of the favorites of the Clan. You can see that in the glowing reviews given on his album and on his performances on numerous soundtracks and, more recently, the new Wu-Tang album. Several times it's been remarked that Ghost shined brightest on a Clan album. With his album going platinum as fast as it did, who could argue? Whether he's your favorite or not, you have to love his personality and the excitement that he puts into all his work. Capable of more emotion than all the others, Ghost shows us that side on "All That I Got is You." Watch for him to figure large on Cappadonna's upcoming album. Cappa, Rae, and Ghost all seem to go hand-in-hand. Name: The Genius
Other names: Gza

Gambino name: Maximillion
Real name: Gary Grice
Album(s): "Words from the Genius" "Liquid Swords" The Genius aka the Gza is one of the pioneers of the Clan. Cousins of both the Rza and ODB, the Genius is the elder Clansman and you can often see the maturity level in his lyrics. Most in the Clan would admit the the Genius is the sharpest member of the whole Clan -- the Rza notwithstanding. His debut album "Words from the Genius" did not develop into the success he had hoped and the Gza was forever changed. He became very mad at the whole industry and still is to this day. His revenge has been sweet and swift, as his second album "Liquid Swords" has sold VERY well (some reports have it at platinum status). An avid chess player, the Genius can often be found whipping up on hapless challengers in his spare time. But don't let his calm exterior fool you, cuz he comes equiped with skills that'll rip the mic with ferocity. Name: Inspectah Deck
Other names: Rebel INS, Fifth Brother
Gambino name: Rollie Fingers
Real name: Jason Hunter
Album(s): "INS 4 President" Jason Hunter, or Inspectah Deck as most know him, is one of the most well-liked members of the Clan. His lyrical skills are second to none, as he comes off on some sharp-soundin shit that you gotta like. His voice commands your attention and his rhythm makes you nod your head obediently. He is yet to release a solo album, but has had his done since November of 1996 -- only waiting till the Wu-Tang album dropped to release it. It's gonna be BANGIN! Deck hasn't done many B-sides, but with his STRONG appearance on "Wu-Tang Forever" and his upcoming album, his popularity should increase. Name: Masta Killa
Other names: High Chief
Gambino name: Noodles
Real name: Elgin Turner
Album(s): none
Perhaps the least known of all the Clan, Masta Killa is the most recent addition to the core of the Clan. After having appeared on the first album (one song), he made several appearances on other's albums and soundtracks. Most definately the most underrated of the members, he usually gets bad reviews on his performance on albums. However, "The Masta" has somewhat of an underground following (including myself) who think that his vocals are mad dope and are anxious to get ahold of a solo joint from him. With a slightly nasally sound, he seems to flow on the mic very smoothly and keeps headz coming back for more. At present, however, there is no album in his future, though, with time, I'm sure one will come. Name: Method Man
Other names: Meth, Methtical, Shakwon, Mza, Iron Lung, Hott Nikkels

Gambino name: Johnny Blaze
Real name: Clifford Smith
Album(s): "Tical" "T2: Judgment Day" Method Man is the Clan's most visible and vocal of all the Clan members. His wit and charisma combine to give Meth an attraction unlike almost any in the whole music industry. Team that with his gravelry voice and on-point lyrics, and you've got the real deal. meth LOVES to have his fun and you can see that in all pictures of him. Having fun is what he should be doing this summer, too, since he is releasing his second album. No doubt, this album will sell like wildfire, but don't be surprised if Meth seems to change up styles. Though he came correct on "Wu-Tang Forever", there seemed to be a lack of the emotion and depth that he put into "Tical". Look for a more light-hearted, laid back approach to his new album, based on his performance on the new Wu album. Name: Chef Raekwon
Other names: Chef, Rae, Shallah Raekwon
Lex Diamond
Gambino name: Lou Diamonds
Real name: Cory Woods
Album(s): "Only Built for Cuban Linx..." Along with Ghostface, Raekwon forms one of the most likealbe tandems in all of hip-hop. Even though he is within the greatest group of our time (maybe history), Rae seems to find the attention and adoration of many Wu fans above the other members. Especially in the media, he gets rave reviews for his gritty, raw raps. Along with Nas, Raekwon ushered in a new era of rap with his debut album. All the talk of "ice" and "cristal" started with Rae. His criminology verses are second to none of have other rappers trying in vain to bite his style and turn it into their own success. But, time and time again, Rae proves to be the master and leader of his style. An interesting note, Rae has reportedly hinted at a SECOND album from himself that will drop in December. We can all hope, at least. Until then, he's blessed us with enough rhymes to keep us going. Name: The Rza
Other names: Rzarector, Prince Rakeem, The Abbott

Gambino name: Bobby Steeles
Real Name: Robert Diggs Jr. Album(s): "The Eight Diagrams" (coming in late '97) What can you say about the Rza? Well, actually, you can't say ENOUGH about him. Acknowledged by the other Clan members as the sharpest one, there isn't anthing that the Rza can't or doesn't do. In addition to being the most sought-after producer in the game now, he rips it up on the mic with words of such knowledge, you'd swear he was a scientist or something. Coming off with a flow that's drousy and slightl slurred, his trademark sound, the Rza gives us the lyrics on the REAL! When he's not producing a song for the Clan's album, one of their solo albums, or spittin' lyrical game, the Rza is doing songs for other groups or artists. His influence is as far-reaching as anyone can see. The father of the Wu-Tang Clan, the Rza definately has his shit in line. Watch for his solo album later this year. Name: U-God
Other names: Baby-U, Golden Arms, 4-Bar Killer
Gambino name: Lucky Hands
Real name: Lamont Hawkins
Album(s): "Warriors" (coming in Winter '97) One of the lesser-known members of the Clan, U-God burst onto the scene this summer with his strong performance on "Wu-Tang Forever." U-God appeared very sparingly on the first Wu album, due to the fact that he was serving some time in a NY prison at the time of the recording. However, he has managed to make somewhat of a name for himself with many cameos on soundtracks and other Wu albums, in addition to his recent performance on the new album. With a deep voice and a flow that's captivating, U-God is sure to blow up the spot with his upcoming album, which is set to drop at the end of this year.