Review + Photos: Wu-Tang Clan Take Final Bows in South Philly

Matt Bishop
Jul 18
3 min read

Updated: Jul 29

The epic end to the group's final tour included appearances from LL Cool J, Lauryn Hill, and more

*Wu-Tang Clan [Matt Bishop/Pop Vulture]*

Last night in South Philly, Wu-Tang Clan rolled into the Wells Fargo Center one last time do deliver what was billed as the group's final concert appearance ever. The culimination of their farewell Final Chamber Tour, the group delivered a hit-filled set that served as an epic farewell to one of the most legendary music groups of all time. The arena buzzed with multigenerational fans in vintage Wu Wear and Flyers jerseys — some worn by the members themselves, gifted by the venue as a symbol of Philadelphia’s cultural homage.

Run the Jewels delivered a powerful opening — about 45 minutes of high‑intensity hits like “Legend Has It” and “Angel Duster,” ramping up energy and setting the tone for the evening. The duo’s underground roots echoed Wu‑Tang’s ethos, making them well-suited partners for the legendary crew.

Wu‑Tang performed in four distinct acts, weaving raw classics, deep cuts, solo showcases, and tribute segments. They launched with tracks like “Bring da Ruckus,” “Clan in da Front,” “Da Mystery of Chessboxin’,” “Wu‑Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing ta F’ Wit,” and “Protect Ya Neck”—a fierce opening barrage that felt like an encore to start the night.

Lauryn Hill emerged to deliver “Killing Me Softly,” speaking emotionally about how 36 Chambers influenced her. She brought out her son Zion for a moving rendition of “To Zion,” which smoothly led into “Can It Be All So Simple,” followed by high-impact solo performances from Raekwon and Ghostface on “Criminology.” Philly-local Freeway and Peedi Crakk jumped onstage for a hometown set featuring “Flipside” and “What We Do."

LL Cool J surprised the crowd with a fierce pairing alongside Method Man on “4,3,2,1,” delivering authentic 90s hip-hop energy several songs in. Young Dirty Bastard joined to honor his father Ol’ Dirty Bastard with “Shimmy Shimmy Ya” and “Got Your Money,” drawing cheers and emotional weight.

The final act brought the full force of the Wu‑Tang catalogue: “C.R.E.A.M.” and “Triumph” capped with soaring violin accompaniment. City Council President Kenyatta Johnson presented each member with a proclamation, acknowledging Wu‑Tang’s cultural impact and honoring the ending of their last fully staffed tour. RZA closed the show with an emotional message: “We came in peace and we leave in peace."

The storied group cranked out a hefty 31-song setlist, offering an exhaustive traversal of their discography from 36 Chambers staples to solo tracks and rarities. Highlights included “Liquid Swords,” “Ice Cream,” “Reunited,” “Run (Cappadonna),” “4th Chamber,” “Tearz,” “Severe Punishment,” and “Daytona 500.".

Lauryn Hill’s tribute added lyrical depth and personal connection, while LL Cool J’s cameo, especially sharing the stage with Method Man, gave fans authentic 90s cross-generational synergy. Tributes to ODB through Young Dirty Bastard were heartfelt and nostalgic. Visual touches like Flyers jerseys, violin orchestration, and martial arts-themed choreography added theatrical flair.

The final night in Philly was more than a concert—it was a cultural milestone. The event blended nostalgia, artistry, community, and legacy in a way that recalled Wu‑Tang’s ground-breaking roots while delivering new surprises and emotional closure. As a farewell put on in the city where ODB had once caused a local stir, it felt deeply symbolic, purposeful, and celebratory.

Expectations set by RZA about unplayed songs, revamped visuals, and a show unlike anything ever seen were fully delivered. Longtime fans left with memories to last a lifetime, and newcomers were gifted an encapsulated history lesson of hip-hop greatness.

LIVE PHOTO GALLERY: