By Ismael AbduSalaam
The Wu-Tang Clan’s main strategist and creative overseer the RZA has announced plans to kick off 2009 with three high-profile film and music projects.
On January 27, the Abbot will release Afro Samurai: The Resurrection.
The LP serves as the soundtrack to season 2 of the critically acclaimed animated series Afro Samurai.
Voiced by Academy Award-nominee Samuel L. Jackson, the series debuted in 2006 on Spike TV and went on to become the best selling anime DVD release of 2007.
The original, well-received soundtrack featured guest spots from Q-Tip, Big Daddy Kane, and Talib Kweli.
The project will mark RZA’s second full length album for the series.
In hopes of creating a diverse musical experience for Hip-Hop fans and avid watchers of the show, the RZA has secured guest appearances from Sly Stone, Kool G Rap, Rah Digga, Killah Priest, Inspectah Deck, Ghostface Killah, Rah Digga, and the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard’s son Boy Jones.
The Resurrection will be a continuation of Wu-Tang Music Group’s partnership with The Orchard to digitally distribute and market the entire label’s catalogue worldwide.
In Summer 2009, RZA’s talents moves to the big screen with a high profile role in The Funny People, an upcoming comedy from writer/director Judd Apatow (The 40-Year Old Virgin, Knocked Up).
The film revolves around the story of a famous comedian coping with a near-death experience.
The Funny People also stars Adam Sandler, Seth Rogen, and Leslie Mann.
Fans of the Wu-Tang Clan can also catch the legendary group on tour at select dates throughout December 2008 and January 2009.