"Taking their inspiration equally from the tough streets of New York as from kung fu and action movies, Wu-Tang Clan broke all molds when they entered the national rap scene in the '90s. They remain one of the most compelling and creative rap groups of all time, and are still considered an inspiration for their off-the-wall sense of humor and the rhymes they brought to their music.The Clan was anything but your typical rap collective. It was essentially a loose group of nine MCs, all of whom contributed to the Wu-Tang records but were looking after (and talented enough for) their own solo careers. Each had a colorful alter-ego to go by. The group included the RZA (Robert Diggs), the GZA (Gary Grice), Ol' Dirty Bastard (Russel Jones, also known as Dirty McGirt, Osiris and Big Baby Jesus), Method Man (Clifford Smith), Raekwon the Chef (Corey Woods), Ghostface Killah (Dennis Coles), U-God (Lamont Hawkins), Inspectah Deck (Jason Hunter), and Masta Killa (Elgin Turner).RZA and Ol' Dirty formed the group in 1992 in Staten Island. Frustrated by the recording industry's attempts at subverting anything that seemed too honest, heartfelt, gritty or even remotely interesting, the group formed to create their own music and reap the artistic and financial benefits. ""Protect Ya Neck,"" their debut single, announced the arrival of a talented group of individuals. When the record companies came calling, they inked a contract that allowed each MC a solo record with any label they saw fit. The group was already redefining what an artist could demand and get in the industry.Their debut, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), became considered a masterpiece of hip-hop. They would release six more records, touching on a variety of subjects, including politics and 9/11."