ROSA Catalogue Number

OMMA-0007

Artist

Wu-Tang Clan

Title

Protect Ya Neck

Release Details

Published by Wu-Tang Records in 1992 as a 12-inch single. Pressed in the United States and distributed through independent retail and hand-to-hand circulation typical of early self-released hip-hop singles.

Edition & Variant Identification

First press commercial edition corresponding to the original self-released issue.

Matrix & Pressing Data

A-side runout etching: PR-234-A ΔM
B-side runout etching: PR-234-B ΔM

Physical Description

A 12-inch vinyl single on black vinyl with orange labels and no barcode. RZA’s private home address printed on label, issued in a generic sleeve. No inserts accompany the item.

Factory-Origin Characteristics

No factory-origin anomalies are noted on the present copy.

Condition Report

The vinyl surface is in Near Mint condition, exhibiting full gloss with only minimal indications of handling and no visible playwear. The labels are in Mint condition, clean and free from writing, stickers, or visible spindle marks.

Provenance

Provenance: acquired from Discogs seller StrictlyVinylRecords; subsequently entered into the Origins of Modern Music Archive.

Photomatching & Verification

No photomatching documentation is supplied for this item.

Market Context & Historical Notes

Issued in a reported run of approximately 500 copies, Protect Ya Neck represents the foundational artifact of the Wu-Tang Clan’s recorded output and the first commercial manifestation of their collective identity. Self-released on Wu-Tang Records and circulated directly to local DJs and shops, the single became a touchstone of early-1990s independent hip-hop and served as the catalyst for the group’s subsequent signing to Loud Records. Its scarcity, cultural significance, and direct link to the emergence of one of the most influential groups in the genre have positioned early copies as highly sought-after material within specialist markets, though subject to moderate volatility characteristic of high-end hip-hop collectibles.

Canonical Status in OMMA

This release is recognized by the Origins of Modern Music Archive as the artist’s canonical debut.

References and Source Documentation

Acquisition record: Discogs seller StrictlyVinylRecords (transaction dated 21 March 2025).