DESCRIPTION:
http://www.cbc.ca/q
The rapper GZA of the legendary Wu Tang Clan from Staten Island came to wide attention with "Enter the Wu Tang Clan (36 Chambers)".... an album considered one of the greatest hip hop records of all time. It was an exploration of the grime and glory of street life -- and a look at the human condition... messy, triumphant, and honest.

GZA, aka The Genius, created lyrics that wove through a whole sea of references...including 1930s American literature, jazz, chess, philosophy, crime, and martial arts. The album sealed his place as one of rap music's most intricate and able lyricists...and performers.

In addition to his work with the Wu Tang Clan, GZA made solo albums. Liquid Swords went platinum: the beats are menacing and hypnotic, the production is atmospheric, and the lyrical content is typically brainy and complex.

Last year GZA released his 5th solo record, Pro Tools. He's currently touring it all over the world -- though in his performances, he's been paying tribute to the classic Liquid Swords. Gary Grice, aka GZA, aka The Genius, is in Canada for the NxNe music festival and joined Studio Q as part of their live show from the CBC's Glenn Gould Studio special.