Only Built 4 Cuban Linx Released 25 Years Ago by Raekwon

The Wu Tang Clan became instant hip hop stars when they released the 36 Chambers album. Afterwards, just about every member released a solo project. Method Man, Ghostface, GZA and ODB went on to drop solo joints after the 36 Chambers album. 25 years ago today, Raekwon dropped one of the greatest hip hop albums ever. Only Built 4 Cuban Linx or the Purple Tape changed the game when it dropped. They called it the Purple Tape because the cassette tape was purple, which was different from the others. Only Built 4 Cuban Linx went on to go platinum. Raekwon dropped four singles off the album with the first two being Heaven & Hell and Criminology. The third single was definitely one of the biggest hits in 1995 and it was called Ice Cream. Ice Cream featured Ghostface, Method Man and Cappadonna.

Cappadonna killed the final verse, which put him in the limelight as one of the Wu’s best lyricists. The final single was called Rainy Dayz and it dropped in 1996. Only Built 4 Cuban Linx deserves all the accolades it has received because it’s a classic album and one of hip hop’s best. All the members of the Wu appeared on the album except ODB. Nas also appeared on the album as he blessed the track Verbal Intercourse, which is a classic record. Verbal Intercourse is one of the best tracks on the album and it also features Ghostface. You need to check this album out yourself if you haven’t already. Peep the track listing below and it’s followed by the stream links.