The music world is mourning the loss of Oliver “Power” Grant, a founding figure behind the legendary hip-hop collective Wu-Tang Clan, who has died at the age of 52. Wu-Tang Clan shared the sad news on social media on February 24, confirming that Grant passed away on Monday. His cause of death has not been publicly announced. Following the news, several members of the group paid tribute to the influential figure. “Paradise my brother, safe travels,” wrote Method Man on Instagram, while GZA shared a photo and reflected on Grant’s impact, saying Wu-Tang “wouldn’t have come to fruition without Power” and calling his passing a profound loss.
Born on November 3, 1973, in Jamaica, Grant grew up in Staten Island’s Park Hill Projects alongside many future Wu-Tang members. Though not a performer, he played a crucial role in shaping the group’s vision and helping guide the nine founding members as they built one of hip-hop’s most influential collectives.
Wu-Tang’s influence extended beyond music into fashion and culture, and Grant was central to that expansion. In 1995, he founded Wu Wear, a streetwear brand that quickly became a major success, with stores in cities such as Los Angeles and Atlanta and nationwide distribution through Macy’s.
Reflecting on his journey, Grant once said success comes from either inspiration or desperation, noting that the group learned through “trial and error” while building their brand and legacy. Grant’s passing comes at a significant moment for Wu-Tang Clan, which recently received its first Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nomination for the Class of 2026. Oliver “Power” Grant leaves behind a lasting legacy in music, fashion, and culture.