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Since 2007′s 8 Diagrams, Wu Tang Clan fans and Hip Hop in general have been clamoring for a for a new album. Today (March 26th) it was announced that only one copy of a secret, 31-track double disc album from the Wu Tang Clan will be released entitled Once Upon A Time In Shaolin.
The album was mostly produced by Wu Tang Clan affiliate, Morroco-based producer Tarik “Cilvaringz” Azzougarh and was recorded with every member of the Wu-Tang Clan over the past six years. In an interview with Forbes, RZA explains that this innovative approach to releasing an album is based on a desire to increase the reverence for Wu Tang music in the art world:
We’re about to sell an album like nobody else sold it before. We’re about to put out a piece of art like nobody else has done in the history of [modern] music. We’re making a single-sale collector’s item. This is like somebody having the scepter of an Egyptian king.
The album will be “presented in a hand carved nickel-silver box designed by the British Moroccan artist Yahya” according to the private music service’s official website. The album will have an unorthodox release in every manner as its “tour” will take place in art exhibitions in museums, galleries and more. In order to curb piracy during these exhibitions, entry will cost between $30-$50, attendees will have relinquish all recording devices before entering and will only be able to hear the music through headphones.
Following the tour, Once Upon A Time In Shaolin will be sold to one private buyer for “millions”, possibly similar to Jay Z selling Magna Carta Holy Grail to Samsung for $5 million to release it exclusively on their app. RZA states that this new private music service could be what sustains the legacy of Wu Tang Clan beyond their physical limitations:
There will be a time when we can’t tour, and that’s just the natural evolution of man. And yet this particular privatized album, I think—this idea we have—will be something that will go longer than all of us.
Once Upon A Time In Shaolin is all original music and includes guest appearances from Redman, Bonnie Jo Mason and more. This album is separate from Wu Tang Clan’s oft-delayed 20th anniversary album, A Better Tomorrow. A Better Tomorrow is scheduled to be released this summer.
Check out the packaging below:
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