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Wu-Tang Clan's $4mn Single-Copy Album 'Once Upon a Time in Shaolin' Subject of New Book

publication · 2026-10-08

A new publication titled 'The Disciple' delves into the story of Wu-Tang Clan's 2015 album 'Once Upon a Time in Shaolin,' which was produced in a single copy. The narrative outlines the album's unique release strategy, its valuation at $4 million, and the subsequent disputes over ownership. It investigates the rationale behind presenting the album as a singular artifact, merging art with commerce. The book recounts the album's path, the legal battles it faced, and the significant interest it sparked. Encased in a silver-and-nickel design, the album was sold with an 88-year restriction on public release. This work contributes to the ongoing conversation about the worth of limited-edition cultural items in the music sector. It is currently available from an undisclosed publisher.

Key facts

  • Only one copy of Wu-Tang Clan's 2015 album 'Once Upon a Time in Shaolin' was made
  • The album is the subject of a new book titled 'The Disciple'
  • The album's reported price was $4 million
  • The album's saga involved obsession and greed
  • The album was stored in a silver-and-nickel case
  • The album's sale included a restriction on public release for 88 years
  • The book explores the intersection of art, commerce, and celebrity
  • The album was recorded by Wu-Tang Clan

Entities

Artists

  • Wu-Tang Clan

Sources