For 31 years, Raekwon The Chef has been one of the most sought out voices in Hip-Hop music. The Staten Island native, born Corey Woods - is a true originator of lyricism, street culture, and rugged NYC style. From swarming the mainstream with Wu-Tang Clan, to his classic debut
album Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, the Staten Island native is a swordsman with rhymes. In 1993, Raekwon made his musical debut with his fellow Wu-Tang members on the classic
album, Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers). On this album,
the young MC dropped iconic
verses on classic singles C.R.E.A.M., Protect Ya Neck, and Can It All Be So Simple.
Gritty,
while introspective,
Raekwon's verses were inspired by his poverty-stricken upbringing,
mistakes from a criminal past, while also expressing artistic pride for his unique rhyme style. With the success and momentum of Wu-Tang Clan driving his rise, Raekwon signed his first
deal as a solo artist with Loud Records. In 1995, Raekwon released his debut solo album, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx. Also affectionately
referred to as
The Purple Tape, a nickname inspired by the album's cassette form - The Purple Tape ushered in an era of criminology in rhyme, confessed through intricate slang, dirty samples, and revolutionary skits. Awarded the prestigious "5 Mic" rating review by The Source Magazine the debut remains one of the keystones of the Wu-Tang catalog
