Wu-Tang Clan star dead at 52 as tributes paid to 'visionary who changed music forever'

One of the pivotal figures in hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan has passed away aged 52. Oliver 'Power' Grant executive produced all of the group's albums and was founder and first CEO of its iconic Wu Wear clothing line. He was childhood friends with rapper RZA's older brother and made a large investment in the group before helping to propel it to success.

Hip-hip and alternative music site Okayplayer confirmed Grant's death yesterday with a moving statement. It read: "We are saddened to announce the passing of Oliver 'Power' Grant, visionary entrepreneur and co-founder of the legendary Wu-Tang Clan. A driving force behind one of hip-hop's most influential movements, Power helped build a global legacy rooted in independence, ownership, and culture."

The tribute continued: "His belief in creative control and community empowerment helped shape not only a group, but a dynasty that changed music forever. His impact will live on through the culture he helped elevate and the countless lives he inspired. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and supporters. Rest in power," reports the Daily Star.

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Grant, who was dubbed Power by two Wu-Tang members who'd seen him playing chess, was born in Jamaica and moved to Staten Island's Park View Projects, where he crossed paths with his future Wu-Tang Clan bandmates.

He launched Wu Wear - one of the first clothing lines inspired by music stars - in 1995 and it went on to make revenue of more than $25million at its peak and has four shops in the US.

Power was among the founding members of the group, which included RZA, Ghostface Killah, Method Man, Raekwon, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa and Cappadonna. Method Man was amongst the first to honour his dear friend.

The rapper-turned-actor shared a photograph of himself with Power on Instagram, writing: "Paradise my Brother safe Travels! Bruh I am not OK."

Social media was awash with tributes for the legendary hip-hop artist. One Instagram user wrote: "Wow. Rest in power and legend! Wutang forever. Literally." Another commented: "God bless Power's ascending soul. Love and compassion to all family and friends."

A third added: "Rest In Power! Thank you for everything you stood behind on believed in. I always felt like if I was a member of WU I would have been POWER."