1993 was the year music changed for me. I heard “Protect Ya Neck” by the Wu-Tang Clan — a New York based rap collective. Nine unique voices and flows on the same track. It was raw, edgy, and unlike anything I’d heard. Fast forward a couple of months to Nov 9th, 1993. I was waiting in line to get my hands on “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” on cassette. Nine masked members with a Shaolin Kung-Fu-inspired album cover?! Incredible! I found my new favourite group. What I didn’t know was that this album would change the trajectory of HIP-HOP forever.
Sept 8th, 2026, Fans of the newest Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees have gathered at the RBC Amphitheatre to celebrate the career of the Wu as they bring “The Final Chapter” tour to Toronto. Black and yellow fill the stands as many of us show our allegiance to the Wu by wearing their colours and tossing up the “W” hand gestures. We’re all in for a night filled with flashbacks and memories of hearing our favorite tracks live, for the final time! The stage is simple — metal cage-like fencing with a walkway and a large logo dominating a slightly angled stage. RZA, the mastermind behind the crew, hits the stage first to welcome us. As “Bring the Ruckus” starts, each member begins hitting the stage, one by one, during their verse in the track. The first set focusing on 36 Chambers sets the tone for the night! The amphitheatre is electric! Havoc, one half of the Infamous
Mobb Deep, comes out for a few of his tracks. Mobb was one of my favorite rap duos. This was just the perfect addition to an already incredible night. Toronto comedian, Russell Peters joins RZA on stage to pay tribute to the culture and artists the genre has lost over the years. The most notable loss for this night is one of the founding Wu Tang members, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, a.k.a O.D.B. His legacy and energy live on and are flawlessly honoured on stage by his first-born son, Y.D.B, who came out and performed two of his father’s legendary tracks.
The 39-song set, featuring album cuts, solo project songs, and covers, took me on a nostalgic journey! Being able to experience and celebrate the crew who sparked my love for HIP-HOP will be talked about for years. Thank you for the memories! WU-TANG forever!!
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Be sure to check out Live Nation Ontario to see all of the other great acts that they will be bringing to Toronto this year.
