Renowned as the visionary behind the iconic Wu-Tang Clan, RZA has amassed an impressive collection of accolades throughout his illustrious four-decade career. Yet, amidst the plethora of honors, it is a recent and unexpected tribute that has left the MC producer brimming with an overwhelming sense of appreciation.
In an exclusive interview with CNN on Thursday (July 6), Grammy-winning rapper Robert Fitzgerald Diggs, better known as RZA, expressed his profound gratitude upon discovering that the revered names of Rihanna and A$AP Rocky had bestowed his moniker upon their 13-month-old son.
Immensely humbled by this gesture, RZA remarked, “[It’s a] a great honor to know that there’s another generation that’s not even of my own household that feels the strength and the inspiration of that name,”
RZA, ever modest, added a thoughtful reflection, shedding light on the significance of his name. “RZA is only a name, it’s a title,” RZA added. “So it’s an honor and I salute her and A$AP and their family. All the blessings in the world from me.”
Delving into the origins of his chosen rap alias, RZA's deep dive into the realms of Islam revealed the profound significance of the letter Z, which symbolizes the highest level of human consciousness. His acronymic interpretation, "Ruler, Zi-Zag-Zig, Allah," encapsulates the profound concepts of "Ruler, Knowledge-Wisdom-Understanding, Allah."
The proclamation of their son's name resonated across social media platforms when A$AP Rocky took to Instagram in May, sharing an endearing series of photos and a heartwarming video of their beloved child.
Accompanying the heartfelt visuals was a caption that reverberated with Wu-Tang Clan's signature energy: ‘WU TANG IZ 4 DA CHUREN’ HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY TO MY 1st BORN . RZA,” he joyously exclaimed. Just days prior, the Daily Mail procured the baby boy's birth certificate, revealing his full name as RZA Athelston Mayers, paying tribute to both RZA and Rocky's birth name, Rakim Athelston Mayers.
This extraordinary convergence of admiration and legacy is a testament to RZA's enduring influence on the cultural landscape, transcending generations and inspiring an unwavering devotion that continues to resonate deeply within the hearts and minds of fans worldwide. As his musical legacy thrives, the impact of his name extends far beyond the realm of mere titles, solidifying his status as an eternal force in the realm of artistry and consciousness.