Dennis Coles, better known for his stage name of Ghostface Killah, is one of the most vibrant and popular Hip Hop artists and American rappers of today. With his most recent album Ghost Fighter, released in May 2021, the artist has proven that both his fanbase and the passion behind his lyrics and music are still going strong. With a music career spanning since 1992, beginning with his lead role in the infamous Wu-Tang Clan, Dennis Coles certainly has a story to tell through his lyrics. A rapper, songwriter and actor with a fierce charisma, we will look at the story and inspirations behind the music of Ghostface Killah.
Early Soul Influences
Ghost talks openly about some of the struggles his family faced while he was growing up, and the responsibilities he had supporting his siblings. Beyond some of the difficulties he faced, Ghost was inspired by the sounds he heard at home. The artist talks about how he vividly remembers hearing Soul legends played at parties, such as ‘The Stylistics’, ‘Blue Magic’ and ‘Natural High’, and it was these sounds which first awoke his music-loving mind. These sounds inspired Coles to start writing and crafting rhymes, which would eventually develop into his complex and meaningful rap lyrics of today.
Wu-Tang Clan
Through grit and determination Cole fought to overcome troubles and make personal changes in his early adult life. His ambition along with the solace he took in music would eventually lead him to influencing the lives of others through Hip Hop. After rehabilitation and being released from prison, Ghost joined fellow aspiring rap artists to form the now iconic Wu-Tang Clan. The group would go on to make a huge impact in the rap world, gaining critical acclaim for their debut album ‘Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)’ released in 1993. Today the album is recognised for its integral role in telling the Hip Hop story and as one the monumental releases in Hip Hop history.
Poker Inspirations
Like a variety of hip hop artists, Ghostface Killah has links to the world of poker. Beyond his artistic references to the game, for example with the famous Pokerface, Dennis Coles is also a successful part-time poker player. In 2007 Ghostface Killah in fact launched a hip-hop-themed online poker site, however the site has since faded. The artist however continues to enjoy poker on a personal level and has been playing since 2012.
The relationship between hip hop and poker runs deep, with both sharing similar themes of hard-work and chance-taking. As such the two complement one and other and poker imagery is often prevalent in hip hop culture, with music videos featuring MC’s or rap artists at card tables. In fact, countless musicians and lyricists have drawn inspiration from the game, both in hip hop and many other genres of music.
Friendship & Humour
When considering Ghost’s musical roots in the Wu-Tan Clang, it is worth noting that Ghost speaks fondly of this time in his life, not just in terms of his musical career but the deep friendships among the group members. For fans, memories of the Wu-Tang Clan may bring up legendary performances, but for Ghost it conjures up memories of friendship, good times and laughter. He recalls the extremely diverse, strong and above all hilarious characters in the group, and the nature of extreme joke-making and laughter that they carried with them everywhere they went. It was the combination of wit, humour and fearlessness among the members which brought Wu-Tang Clan together through historic rap battles, influenced their music and would eventually play an intrinsic role in Ghost’s solo music career too.
Collaborations
As well as fiercely taking on his own solo career and making an independent name for himself, Ghostface Killah is well known for collaborating with other artists to create unique Hip Hop fusions. Famous collaborations include Ghostface and fellow former Wu-Tang Clan member Raekwon, who have produced several distinctive duo fusions which have turned heads within the Hip Hop world. Ghostface is also known for featuring on other artist’s album’s, such as Rich Chigga and Omarion to produce some number one best sellers. Through his continuous collaboration and fusions with different styles of music, Ghostface proves to be versatile, innovative and an icon within the Hip Hop world.