The music world is mourning the loss of Oliver “Power” Grant, a founding figure behind the Staten Island hip-hop collective Wu-Tang Clan. The group announced on February 24 that Grant passed away at 52. According to Hot 97, he died on February 23. His cause of death has not been revealed.
Tributes quickly followed. Method Man wrote, “Paradise my Brother safe Travels!!” while GZA shared that Wu-Tang “wouldn’t have come to fruition without Power,” calling his death a profound loss.
Born November 3, 1973, in Jamaica and raised in Staten Island’s Park Hill Projects, Grant was a close friend of the group’s members. Though not a performer, he played a crucial role in shaping their vision and business direction, helping turn Wu-Tang Clan into a global brand that influenced music, fashion, and culture.
In 1995, he founded Wu Wear, a streetwear label that expanded nationwide, including sales through Macy’s. In past interviews, Grant described their journey as built on trial and error, learning business through experience.
His passing comes during a significant moment for the group, as Wu-Tang Clan recently received its first nomination to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for the Class of 2026, potentially joining legends like The Notorious B.I.G. and Outkast.