On this day in 1970, 52 years ago, Corey Woods was born. Woods, better known to the world as Raekwon, is a member of the iconic Hip-Hop collective known as the Wu-Tang Clan. In addition to stellar performances on memorable Wu-Tang singles such as “C.R.E.A.M.,” “Protect Ya Neck,” and “Triumph,” his first solo release, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx…, is widely regarded as one of the best Hip-Hop albums ever.

With seven solo albums, seven as part of the Wu, and numerous memorable guest features ( Outkast’s “Skew It On the Bar-B” is a particularly dope song), Raekwon is a Hip-Hip legend and one of the game’s most respected elder statesmen.  

A year and a half ago, while speaking with journalist Elliot Wilson, Raekwon announced he would be releasing the third and final installment of his critically acclaimed Only Built 4 Cuban Linx series. Something which Hip-Hop heads can’t get soon enough. And while it still has yet to be released, it will undoubtedly be worth the wait. Most recently released his memoir, From Staircase to Stage: The Story of Raekwon and the Wu-Tang Clan. (Props to Anthony Bozza for his assistance as well.).   

Happy Born Day to Raekwon, one of the greatest emcees to pick up a mic in Hip-Hop history!