Oliver “Power” Grant of Wu-Tang Clan Dies at 52 | Rolling Stone

Oliver “Power” Grant, a foundational figure in the success of the Wu-Tang Clan and the architect of their groundbreaking Wu Wear clothing line, died on February 23. He was 52 years old.

The news of Grant’s passing was confirmed by Method Man, a core member of the Wu-Tang Clan, who shared a tribute on Instagram. He posted a photograph of himself with Grant, writing, “Paradise my Brother safe Travels!! 💔💔🤬 #pookie #power.” The two men also co-starred in the 1998 film Belly and the 1999 film Black and White.

While not a performing artist himself, Grant, widely known as “Power,” was instrumental in shaping the Wu-Tang Clan’s commercial trajectory throughout the 1990s. Born in Jamaica and raised in New York, he became an early and vital supporter of the Staten Island-based collective as it coalesced around the creative vision of RZA and the late Ol’ Dirty Bastard.

As the group prepared for the release of their seminal 1993 debut album, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), Grant played a crucial role in securing both studio time and financial backing. He then dedicated himself to building the business infrastructure that allowed the Wu-Tang Clan to negotiate unusually favorable terms in their recording contracts.

Grant’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to found Wu Wear, a pioneering artist-owned streetwear brand in the hip-hop world. Launched in the mid-1990s, Wu Wear rapidly expanded into a global enterprise, establishing retail locations in both New York and Los Angeles. At its peak, the brand generated tens of millions of dollars in annual sales and set a new standard for musician-led fashion ventures, paving the way for others to follow.

Wu Wear’s reach extended to national retail department stores in the late 1990s and early 2000s, solidifying its position as a cultural force. Grant’s vision extended beyond clothing; he also served as a manager and executive producer on numerous Wu-Tang-related projects, broadening the brand’s influence into touring, film and merchandising.

His work was pivotal in translating the Wu-Tang Clan’s raw and innovative lyrical style into a sustainable and thriving business. He understood how to build a brand that resonated with fans and translated artistic expression into commercial success.

Though internal disagreements and legal challenges occasionally arose within the Wu-Tang Clan’s broader business network, Grant remained a consistent and steadfast presence.

In an industry that often prioritizes the visibility of performers, Oliver “Power” Grant operated largely behind the scenes. His legacy, however, endures in the blueprint he helped create for hip-hop commerce and artist entrepreneurship. He demonstrated the power of building a sustainable business around artistic vision, a model that continues to inspire artists today.