Who Is GZA? Age, Biography and Wiki
GZA, born on August 22, 1966, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. Best known as a founding member of the influential hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan, GZA has established himself as a pivotal figure in the rap industry over the past few decades. With a unique lyrical style and impactful storytelling ability, he has crafted a significant legacy in the world of music. As of 2025, GZA is 58 years old.
| Occupation | Songwriter |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 22, 1966 |
| Age | 58 Years |
| Birth Place | New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
GZA's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
GZA stands tall at approximately 6 feet (183 cm) and maintains a weight of around 150 pounds (68 kg). Known for his slender build, GZA's body measurements complement his dynamic stage presence, which he further enhances with a signature style that marries street fashion with individuality.
Gary Eldridge Grice (born August 22, 1966), better known by his stage names GZA and the Genius, is an American rapper. A founding member of the hip hop group Wu-Tang Clan, GZA is the group's "spiritual head", being both the first member in the group to receive a record deal and being the oldest member.
He has appeared on his fellow Wu-Tang members' solo projects, and has maintained a successful solo career starting with his second album Liquid Swords (1995).
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, GZA has kept much of his personal life private. Although details regarding his current boyfriend or girlfriend remain undisclosed, GZA has previously been open about significant relationships in his life. He has two children, and while he tends to keep family matters under wraps, it is known that he values family and often incorporates themes of love and connection in his music.
He developed an interest in hip-hop by attending block parties as a child in the early 1970s, becoming involved in breakdance, graffiti, and DJing. Early on he developed an interest in writing, studying Mother Goose and nursery rhyme.
In 1974–1976, before moving from Brooklyn to Staten Island, he listened to The Last Poets; however, he was attracted by profanity rather than content, and didn't understand the underlying messages until many years later.
The Last Poets, as well as songs by The Isley Brothers, the Commodores, and the O'Jays had a big part in his early life, especially regarding the tone and cadence of speech. Later on, he began to listen to hip hop and R&B, for example by Secret Weapon and Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five.
In 1982, Grice dropped out of high school in the tenth grade.
Net Worth and Salary
GZA's estimated net worth in 2025 is around $20 million. Over his extensive career, he has amassed wealth through album sales, live performances, and business ventures. His longevity in the industry, combined with his ability to innovate and maintain relevance, has significantly contributed to his financial success.
Career, Business and Investments
GZA's career took off in the early 1990s with the formation of Wu-Tang Clan. His solo albums, notably "Liquid Swords," have received critical acclaim and continue to influence new artists. In addition to music, GZA has ventured into other industries, including acting and education. He is also known for his interest in science, often hosting workshops to explore the intersection of hip-hop and science education. His investments in technology initiatives and startup companies illustrate his adaptability and keen business acumen.
After some years of this, 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 (1991), produced mostly by Easy Mo Bee, but it failed to sell due to lack of promotion.
This, combined with his rocky experience on tour, caused GZA to feel fed up and so he asked if he could be released from the label. The album's beat selection is similar to the classic boom-bap sound of the early 1990s, while the lyricism subject is the everyday situations of an individual living in the parts of New York.
At the time he worked as a bicycle messenger.
Social Network
GZA is an active participant on various social media platforms where he shares music updates, promotes literacy and science programs, and connects with fans. He has a significant following on Instagram and Twitter, allowing him to engage with both new audiences and longtime supporters. His online presence not only highlights his career achievements but also reinforces his commitment to education and innovation.
He formed a three-man group with his cousins, Robert Diggs and Russell Jones, who would later be known as RZA and Ol' Dirty Bastard. At the time he didn't like the sound of his voice.
The group, FOI: Force of the Imperial Master, and later All in Together, saw the three rapping and DJing, switching names and performing local shows; since they lived in different boroughs, GZA and Ol' Dirty would travel from Brooklyn out to Staten Island to meet up with their cousin RZA, after which the three would travel across New York City and
challenge other MCs to battles.
He left school in the 10th grade, but nurtured his affection for science as he developed his skills as a lyricist.
Education
GZA’s educational journey reflects his thirst for knowledge and the importance he places on learning. While he did not finish traditional academic schooling, he has always been an advocate for education. GZA has collaborated with various educational institutions and programs focused on integrating hip-hop culture with science and literature, demonstrating his belief in the transformative power of education.
In summary, GZA remains a prominent figure in music and beyond, combining artistry with activism and education while continuing to inspire both fans and fellow artists alike as he approaches the later years of his career.
In the summer of 2008, his fifth solo studio album Pro Tools was released by Babygrande Records. It featured production from Black Milk and Jay "Waxxx" Garfield, RZA, Mathematics and True Master. A very controversial song on the album was entitled "Paper Plate", a smooth flowing response aimed at rival rapper 50 Cent.
After the release, GZA toured various parts of Europe on a "Liquid Swords Tour", where he performed songs from Liquid Swords as well as Pro Tools. He later toured parts of the US.
