R.I.P. Ol Dirty Bastard (1968-2004)

“Ol’ Dirty Bastard” or simply “ODB“, was one of the founding members of the super hip hop group Wu-Tang Clan.

Ol’ Dirty Bastard brought a measure of humor and a touch of the absurd to the Wu-Tang Clan. Often noted for his unusual microphone technique.  ODB’s stage name came from a 1980 kung fu film entitled Ol’ Dirty and the Bastard, the relevance of which was articulated by Method Man‘s assertion that there was “no father” to Jones’ style.

After establishing the Wu-Tang Clan, Ol’ Dirty Bastard went on to a successful solo career. However, his professional success was hampered by erratic personal behavior and frequent legal troubles, including incarceration. He died in late 2004 of an accidental drug overdose, two days before his 36th birthday.  RIP Ol Dirty!