Wu-Tang Clan is an American hip hop collective formed in Staten Island, New York, in 1992. The group, led by RZA as producer, consists of nine core members: RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa, and formerly Ol' Dirty Bastard, who died in 2004; Cappadonna later joined officially. Drawing from kung fu films like Shaolin and Wu Tang and Five Percent Nation teachings, they released the independent single 'Protect Ya Neck' in 1993, followed by their debut album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) in 1994 on Loud/RCA, which allowed solo careers on other labels. Their style features gritty, dense lyrics over raw, sample-heavy beats, revitalizing East Coast hip hop amid West Coast dominance. Notable albums include Wu-Tang Forever (1997) and The W (2000). Members pursued solo projects, expanding the Wu-Tang brand. Live, they are known for high-energy performances with martial arts imagery and group chemistry, as seen headlining events like the 2004 Rock the Bells festival.