From Complex · · 1m
Wu-Tang Clan's Record Deal Revolution
RZA's 1993 Wu-Tang deal broke music industry norms by letting members sign solo contracts.
In brief
RZA's 1993 Wu-Tang deal broke music industry norms by letting members sign solo contracts. Wu-Tang Clan's 1993 record deal allowed members to sign solo contracts while releasing their debut album. Originally reported by Complex.
Wu-Tang Clan's Record Deal
RZA engineered a deal in 1993 that let Wu-Tang Clan members sign solo contracts.
The 1992 Release
The group released 'Protect Ya Neck' in 1992, which flopped initially but gained underground traction.
Loud Records Offer
Loud Records offered $10,000 for the single and $50,000 for the album if 50,000 units were sold.
RZA's Condition
RZA demanded the right to shop solo deals for each member at other labels.
The Deal Closed
Loud Records agreed after negotiations with RZA and Rich Isaacson.
The 1993 Release
By November 9, 1993, Wu-Tang Clan members had solo deals in place after the album release.
What matters most
Wu-Tang Clan's 1993 record deal allowed members to sign solo contracts while releasing their debut album.
