He’s one of music’s bad boys by definition. Part of legendary US hip hop collective, the Wu-Tang Clan, Clifford Smith, a.k.a Method Man or simply Meth, will be returning to Budapest this April. We spoke to the king of bling himself about life in a hip hop haze…
You’re part of the notorious Wu-Tang Clan. You stood out from the start, being one of only two members with a solo track on the debut album. Was a solo career always on the cards?
We always envisioned the group to spread into multiple solo careers. All members always had aspirations. For us, diving into multiple careers was only a way to strengthen us as a group. This structure has been copied by a lot of artists since, but we originated it.
And how does performing and recording solo compare with being part of the group?
Working with the group, its always harder to coordinate our schedules – to decide when we can record and where, etc. We all have to agree at one point, about lyrics, beats, all and everything. However, going solo, you don’t have such preoccupations. It’s like living amongst family and being independent and alone. You have certain obligations with your family that you might not have by yourself.
Wu-Tang have been hugely successful, worldwide. Have you felt a pressure to reach a similar level of success?
I am a part of Wu-Tang, therefore I have been successful worldwide. I don’t have any pressure, we never had pressure because we always knew what was gonna be, we always had a plan in mind. However, I myself am a Grammy award winner, Hollywood actor and multiplatinum artist, so, i would say my level of success is fairly high, isn’t it?
You joined Wu-Tang in 1992. What were you doing before then?
Just working, man. Worked in The Statue of Liberty and always had stuff to do. Been writing since I was young.
You’re surrounded by a lot of bling in your line of work. What’s the most expensive item you’ve bought so far?
I have a few Wu-Tang collars that are up on high numbers, I cannot disclose quantities.
You’ve collaborated with many people. Who’s been the most inspiring or enjoyable to work with?
Mary J Blige was really cool to work with. Really respect and love Mary. I have countless collaborations I’ve enjoyed, man. My favorite must be my man Redman. We’ve done two albums together and have worked with each other for many years.
And who would you still like to collaborate with?
Reggae artists. I love the music, that’s something I still need to work on.
Which of your tracks are you most proud of?
The Riddler is one I’m particulary fond of. Also Scalp Dem remix with Supernatural.
You’ve acted in a number of features and series in the U.S.. What’s been your favorite role so far, and have you got any acting plans for the future?
We’re working on How High 2 right now. That’s one important project.
You were close friends with The Notorious B.I.G. and the only guest rapper on his debut album. What did knowing him teach you?
Strive to be the best. He had a dope flow, one of a kind.
Which tracks in particular won’t you tire of performing?
None of Ol’ Dirty Bastard’s classics. I actually won’t be tired of performing any of my music; if I did, that would mean I don’t feel the tracks I’m performing. That’s never gonna happen.
And how much impro will be involved in the show?
I always throw a little bit of a freestyle – I usually do sixteen to thirty-two bars. I might do a bit more, but that depends on the crowd and the mood. So Budapest, I hope you’re wild as ever!
Hip hop’s evolved over the years, and you’ve spoken about it going though cycles and stages. What would you say remains at its heart?
The love for the music, the hip hop roots.
What can we expect from Method Man in the future?
More music, more acting. I’m working on my next album right now, tentatively titled Crystal Meth. We might do another Wu-Tang album soon as well.
And what can we expect from the Budapest gig?
Real hip hop, and lots of energy.
Your new album, Wu-massacre, will be released March 30th. What can we look forward to?
Nothing but a raw hip hop, Wu-Tang sounding record. It’s me, Rae and Ghost delivering nothing but the grimiest lyrics over the best beats you’ve heard in years. Real hip hop.
Quick Hits
Best track ever? Wu-Tang Clan, Aint Nuthing to Fuck with.
What do you expect Budapest to be like? A party
And why should we head to the gig? Because we must reunite and celebrate hip hop.
Method Man concert
April 1st
Petőfi Csarnok
1146 Budapest, Zichy Mihály út 14.
Tel.: +36.1.363.3730/114
Tickets: In advance, 6,500 HUF; on the day, 8,500 HUF
To purchase tickets, click on the “Jegyinformációk” tab, then click “Jegyrendelés” next to Method Man in the list.