Words by Michellee Nelson—
The Wu-Tang family has had a soft spot for Jamaican culture for as long as we can remember. Remember when Method Man quoted Ninjaman on “Bring the Pain?” And of course there’s their well-documented (and yardie-inspired) obsession with Clarks Wallabees.
The Wu’s Chef Raekwon quietly released the soundclash-inspired “Soundboy Kill It” featuring Guyanese-Canadian R&B singer (and reggae fanatic) Melanie Fiona this summer, and he’s now issued an updated version also featuring the unmistakeable voice of Jamaican rude bwoy Assassin (who’s been on a few hip hop/dancehall collabs already this year, including Kanye’s “I’m In It”).
Commenting on the Jerry “Wonda” Duplessis-produced track, Raekwon told Rolling Stone, “Dancehall is where we pay homage to the DJ.” Stressing the importance of the selector, especially in the club vibes, he says “[The DJ is] in the middle of the ring. There is an art form to the sound clash, which inspired me. And I really love West Indian culture and music, so it only made sense to pay respect.”
The song is the latest teaser to Raekwon’s upcoming sixth solo LP, Fly International Luxurious Art (F.I.L.A), set to be released in January 2014. Take a listen to the “Soundboy Kill It” remix below, and check out the original track here.