Since 1993, HOT 97 has been on the front lines of Hip Hop not only in New York City, but across the world.
On the 50th year of Hip Hop, HOT 97 is honored to introduce Wu-Tang Clan as the 1st recipients of the HOT 97 Hip Hop Impact Award which recognizes extraordinary contributions to hip hop, outsized and lasting influence in the music and culture, & gives the opportunity to give people their recognition and flowers while they can enjoy them.
“There is no more deserving recipient of the 1st Annual HOT 97 Hip Hop Impact Award than the Wu-Tang Clan. For decades, the RZA and the rest of the Wu have blazed a trail for entertainers in music, film and the arts, all while creating one of the most prolific music catalogues in hip hop history. We congratulate and celebrate them today and always,” said Bradford Tobin, President, Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel.
There is not one group that has made such a wide-ranging impact on the world of Hip Hop than the Wu-Tang Clan.
Formed in Staten Island in 1992, RZA, GZA, Method Man, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa, and Ol’ Dirty Bastard took the world by storm with a unique sound that blended Hardcore Hip Hop, Kung Fu samples and the world of Shaolin which helped bring New York City culture to life across the world.
Beginning with the release of their debut album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) in 1993, the group released nine albums and sold over 40 million records, won two Grammy Awards, and has grown to be one of the most influential groups in music history.
Their influence worldwide surpasses just the music. It has blended into fashion, books, video games, movies, television, sports, and much more.
The yellow Wu-Tang Clan “W” logo is recognized throughout many races and cultures, and with the leadership of RZA continue to push the name forward through projects such as Once Upon a Time in Shaolin, Wu-Tang: An American Saga on Hulu, and members extending their career through acting roles and more.
In recognition of this award, Hip Hop Has Heart will be donating to the “Children’s Literacy Society” which focuses on improving the literacy levels of children from disadvantaged communities in New York City.
In acceptance of the award, RZA says, “it’s great to be recognized for your work. To think 30 years ago when I was sitting there playing with SP-1200 or playing with the ASR-10 that I would create a sound that would not only inspire my generation, but inspired future generations. And I thank HOT 97 for recognizing that.”
Join us in celebrating the entire Wu-Tang Clan for their contributions to our lives and the inspiration to the lives of others for over 30 years.