Who is Raekwon?

Raekwon (born Corey Woods) is an American rapper and one of the founding members of the Wu-Tang Clan. He rose to prominence in 1994 with the album Only Built 4 Cuban Linx..., which is considered a hip hop classic. He has released six solo albums, four collaborative albums, and two compilation albums since then. His music has been featured in television, film, and video games. He has also appeared on tracks by other artists, including Jay-Z, The Notorious B.I.G., Mobb Deep, and Nas.

Early Life

Raekwon was born in Brooklyn, New York, but moved to Staten Island at a young age. He was raised by his mother and father and has two brothers. Growing up he was very interested in music and was influenced by the culture of hip hop. He began writing rhymes in elementary school and soon was performing at talent shows and local clubs.

Music Career

In 1992, Raekwon joined forces with RZA to form the Wu-Tang Clan. They released their debut album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) in 1993 to critical acclaim. The album established them as one of the most influential hip hop groups of all time. Raekwon soon embarked on a solo career with the release of Only Built 4 Cuban Linx.... It was released in 1995 to rave reviews and instantly became a classic. It featured fellow Wu-Tang members Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and GZA, as well as appearances by Nas and Mobb Deep. Raekwon followed up this album with five more solo albums and four collaborative albums.

Later Career

Raekwon has continued to collaborate with other artists throughout his career. He has featured on tracks by Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Dr. Dre, The Game, Busta Rhymes, Jadakiss, Busta Rhymes, Mobb Deep, and many others. He has also been featured on many soundtracks for television shows and films including Training Day, The Wackness, Sons of Anarchy, Blade II, The Fast And The Furious: Tokyo Drift, and The Man With The Iron Fists. In 2012 he released his sixth solo album Fly International Luxurious Art. Raekwon continues to tour around the world performing his music for fans old and new.