Biography
Who is GZA?
Early life and real name
GZA was born Gary Eldridge Grice on August 22, 1966, in Brooklyn, New York. As a child in the early 1970s, he attended block parties and became involved in breakdance, graffiti, and DJing. He also developed an early interest in writing and studied nursery rhymes and poetry. Before moving to Staten Island, he listened to groups like The Last Poets, The Isley Brothers, and the Commodores, which influenced the tone and cadence of his speech.
How GZA became famous
Early in his career, GZA was signed to Cold Chillin' Records as a solo artist under the name The Genius. He released his debut album, Words from the Genius, in 1991, but it failed to sell due to a lack of promotion. Following this rocky experience, he asked to be released from the label and worked as a bicycle messenger while continuing to hone his craft.
Career highlights
Following his success with the Wu-Tang Clan, GZA released his second studio album, Liquid Swords, on November 7, 1995, through Geffen Records. Produced and recorded entirely in a basement studio by RZA, the album featured contributions from all original Clan members and dialogue sampled from the film Shogun Assassin. It peaked at number nine on the Billboard 200 chart and earned a Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America for selling over one million copies.
GZA's height and personal life
GZA stands at 182 centimeters tall. Beyond music, he is known for his deep interest in quantum physics, science education, and philosophy. He has given lectures at institutions such as New York University, Harvard University, MIT, Oxford, USC, NYU, and Cornell, where he met with scientists to seek inspiration for his creative work.
Birthday and age
GZA was born on August 22, 1966, which makes GZA 60 years old today. That birthday falls under the Leo sign. GZA shares the date with 24 other famous people.
Explore more
