Raekwon, born Corey Woods on January 12, 1970, in Brooklyn, New York, is one of the most celebrated figures in hip-hop, known for his vivid storytelling, intricate lyricism, and defining role as a member of the legendary Wu-Tang Clan. Raekwon grew up in Staten Island, a borough that served as the foundation for the formation of Wu-Tang Clan in the early 1990s. As part of the group, Raekwon helped craft the gritty, raw sound of their groundbreaking debut album, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) (1993), where his verses on tracks like “C.R.E.A.M.” showcased his unique talent for combining vivid imagery with streetwise wisdom. His solo career took off with the release of Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… in 1995, an album widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop records of all time. Often referred to as “The Purple Tape” due to its iconic cassette release, the album is a masterclass in mafioso rap, blending crime narratives with intricate production by RZA. Tracks like “Criminology” and “Ice Cream” solidified Raekwon’s reputation as a lyrical giant. Raekwon continued to release solo projects, including Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… Pt. II (2009), which was celebrated as a worthy successor to his debut. Beyond his solo work, Raekwon remained an integral part of Wu-Tang Clan, contributing to their albums and maintaining the group’s status as a cultural force. Over his career, Raekwon has collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Nas and Ghostface Killah to OutKast and Kanye West, demonstrating his versatility and influence across the genre. His ability to merge cinematic storytelling with poetic lyricism has cemented his legacy as one of hip-hop’s greatest voices.