The Genius, aka GZA, is the most cerebral MC in the Wu-Tang Clan, as well as perhaps the most acclaimed. His cool, precise flow and intricate, literate rhymes weren't as theatrical as Method Man or Ol' Dirty Bastard, the two biggest commercial stars to spring from the collective. But among hip-hop aficionados, the Genius was revered for his flawless technique and lyrical dexterity, and was considered by many to be the best pure rapper in the entire Clan. The group became an underground sensation and took the rap world by storm with its 1993 debut, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers). In 1995, GZA released solo album, Liquid Swords, and was instantly hailed as a hip-hop classic. While it didn't make him a pop star, the album sold very well, reaching Billboard’s Top Ten and falling one spot short of the top of the R&B charts. Following the Clan's 1997 sophomore set, Wu-Tang Forever, the Genius returned to the solo arena with 1999's Beneath the Surface. While critics didn't praise it quite as lavishly as Liquid Swords, it was another well-received effort, and it topped the R&B album charts. After reconvening with the Wu for 2000's HYPERLINK "http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:wifixqy0ldke"The W and 2001's Iron Flag, the Genius dropped his fourth solo effort, Legend of the Liquid Sword, in late 2002, consolidating his reputation as one of the most skillful rappers around.