The Wu-Tang Clan are back with “Claudine”, the group’s first official single in six years. Featuring Nicole Bus, Method Man and Ghostface Killah; “Claudine” is a classic Wu-Tang joint, touching on themes of love, loss and heartbreak. The new single marks a milestone for the Wu-Tang Clan, aligning with the 50th anniversary of hip-hop and foreshadowing the upcoming 30th anniversary of their groundbreaking debut album, “Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers).”
Brimming with nostalgia, “Claudine” delves into the turbulence of relationships and the heartbreak of losing a parent. Method Man – forever witty and unpredictable – rips a razor-sharp verse quipping on the ebbs and flows of love, before Ghostface Killah delivers a stirring tribute to his late mother, paying homage to the woman who shaped his life and his artistry. Nicole Bus – no stranger to Wu-Tang, having sampled “C.R.E.A.M.” in her smash hit “You” – brings an added layer of depth and emotion to “Claudine.” Honest and raw; “Claudine” traverses the intricate facets of love, where passion and turmoil intertwine.
“Claudine” was produced by Mathematics, Wu-Tang’s longtime DJ (and creator of the iconic W). The smooth and soulful production embodies the classic Wu sound, reminiscent of RZA’s iconic production. Mathematics shared some words about the sentiments behind the song:
“Claudine was made as a dedication to my mother as well as an ode to all mothers, wives and young women, reflecting their struggle, strength, courage and love.”
“Claudine” pays homage to the 1974 blaxploitation film featuring Diahann Carroll and James Earl Jones. This song mirrors the film’s themes, exploring the complexities of companionship and parenthood, beautifully echoed in the song’s poignant lyrics.
It’s been a busy year for the Wu-Tang Clan, who have been captivating audiences all over the globe with a relentless touring calendar. The tour commenced with a historic debut in South America in the spring, followed by headlining tours across Australia, New Zealand and Europe. The group is currently wrapping up the North American leg of the N.Y. State of Mind Tour, with Nas and De La Soul.
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