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RZA Picks GZA Over Nas, Rakim as the "Best" Rapper of All-Time

Story by Preezy Brown

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2 min read

RZA Picks GZA Over Nas, Rakim As The "Best" Rapper Of All-Time

Wu-Tang Clan leader RZA has stirred conversation with bold claims about the lyrical supremacy of his cousin and fellow Clan member, GZA, stating his belief that no emcee in Hip-Hop history could defeat him in a battle.

During his latest appearance on the Drink Champs podcast, The Abbot was asked to choose between Wu-Tang Clan member and relative GZA and longtime collaborator and friend, Nas.

After asking N.O.R.E. to specify the aspect in which the comparison would be made, he gave each artist their props, calling them both “powerful brothers” in their own respective rights.

However, RZA would ultimately choose GZA over Nas, pointing to GZA’s understated, yet invaluable contributions to Hip-Hop through his solo work, as well as his sheer rhyming ability.

“For MC-ing, my favorite, best MC is the GZA,” RZA said. “I don't think no MC could beat the GZA. I think what GZA has written for Hip-Hop, no other MC can compare.”

RZA continued, adding Rakim, whom some consider the most respected and influential lyricist in Hip-Hop history, to the list of artists whose work pales in comparison to that of The Genius.

“Even if you go look at Rakim, who is one of the greatest, to most people, one of the greatest. Nas is one of the greatest. If you go look at what GZA offered to hip hop, look at what he spawned,” RZA said, noting his influence and inspiration in the formation of the Wu-Tang Clan.

“He spawned me, Meth (Method Man), Rae (Raekwon), Ghost (Ghostface Killah) - these are all from GZA, the enlightener.”

RZA concluded that GZA’s musical contributions through the Wu have yet to be beat. “What the Wu offered lyrically is what no one has mastered yet,” Bobby Digital boasted.

Releasing his debut album Words from the Genius in 1991 via Cold Chillin’ Records, the GZA was the first Wu-Tang member to score a record deal and drop a studio album, inspiring RZA and the future members of the Wu to join forces shortly after.

While Words from the Genius failed to live up to commercial expectations, leading to GZA splitting with Cold Chillin’ Records, he would achieve widespread success with his classic sophomore album, Liquid Swords, in 1995.

He has since released several solo and collaborative projects over the past twenty years, with his forthcoming album, Dark Matter, still in the works after first being announced over a decade ago.

Watch RZA’s speak on the GZA’s greatness during his Drink Champs interview below.

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