Rare Wu-Tang Clan Album to be Displayed in Australian Gallery
Prepare your ears for a musical experience like no other as an ultra-exclusive album by the Wu-Tang Clan is set to make its public debut at an Australian gallery.
Once Upon a Time in Shaolin, a record shrouded in secrecy and recorded over six years, is housed in a stunning silver box. With only one CD copy in existence, this album is a true masterpiece of fine art.
Considered the most expensive album ever sold, Once Upon a Time in Shaolin is currently on loan to Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New Art (Mona).
During a 10-day period in June, Mona will host intimate listening parties where lucky members of the public can enjoy a specially curated 30-minute snippet of the album.
This exclusive album is just one highlight of Mona’s Namedropping exhibition, which delves into themes of status, notoriety, and the human pursuit.
“Every once in a while, an object possesses mystical properties that go beyond its physical form,” said Mona’s Director of Curatorial Affairs, Jarrod Rawlins. “Once Upon a Time in Shaolin is more than just an album – it’s a true work of art.”
Originally formed in Staten Island in the early ’90s, the Wu-Tang Clan is credited with revolutionizing hip-hop, while also courting controversy with their edgy lyrics.
Recorded in New York City and produced in Marrakesh from 2006 to 2013, Once Upon a Time in Shaolin features all nine surviving members of the group, along with guest appearances from pop icon Cher and Game of Thrones star Carice Van Houten.
Disillusioned with modern music distribution methods, the group sought to elevate the value of music by offering a limited, commissioned commodity in the form of this album.
Complete with a hand-carved nickel box, a leather-bound manuscript containing lyrics, and a certificate of authenticity, the album comes with a legal clause prohibiting the release of its 31 tracks for 88 years.
Producer RZA likened the album to a priceless artwork, emphasizing its status as a unique original rather than a mere copy.
Despite its high value, only a select few individuals have had the privilege of hearing snippets from the album. In 2015, a group of potential buyers and media were treated to a 13-minute preview, while controversial figure Martin Shkreli famously streamed portions of the music on YouTube after purchasing the album for a staggering $2 million.
Following Shkreli’s legal troubles, the album changed hands and is now in the possession of digital art collective Pleasr, who have enabled Mona to fulfill the group’s vision of showcasing the album as a work of fine art.
Known for its thought-provoking exhibitions, Mona continues to push boundaries with events like the upcoming listening parties for Once Upon a Time in Shaolin, offering a rare opportunity for music enthusiasts to experience this extraordinary creation firsthand. – BBC
