Raekwon Talks 'Cuban Linx' Doc, Reveals Crowdfunding Perks

Twenty years after the release of 1995's Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, Wu-Tang Clan member Raekwon is crowdfunding a film about his seminal, influential debut LP. The Purple Tape Files: The Documentary & Film will offer a retrospective look at the album and its impact on pop culture, using interviews with musicians, journalists and industry professionals.

"Our vision for the film is for it to be as honest as possible, removing the filter from both ourselves and participants," the rapper tells Rolling Stone. "I plan to take viewers on a ride through the album from beginning to end. Beyond revealing untold information about the project and how it was created, the film will also bring to life the actual movie that happens within the album."

Raekwon says "creative control" was the goal behind the crowdfunding approach. "The album was our vision, and the thought of having anyone but us in the driver's seat was unthinkable," he says. "This project is for the fans by the fans, me included. I'm not with the politics and shit, and being put into a position where we even would have to consider anyone's watered down version wasn't an option. Only Built 4 Cuban Linx was an honest and authentic project; it's a must that the film is also." 

Filming will be 100 percent funded by fans through the FanBacked website. Donors will receive an array of incentives based on their amount given, ranging from a 20th Anniversary Purple Tape sticker ($5) to a personal mixtape review by Raekwon and Ghostface Killah ($200) to a Crowdfunding Producer credit ($10,000) that also includes merchandise and an invite to the film premiere. Other notable rewards include a "special thanks" in the film's credits ($500), guest list credentials for all of Raekwon's shows in the next five years ($1,000) and spending a day in the studio with the rapper ($2,500). 

Watch an exclusive teaser for the campaign below.

Raekwon first announced The Purple Tape Files during a pop-up preview and Q&A session at this year's Sundance Film Festival, and the rapper will also promote the project at Coachella and the Toronto Film Festival. The film will be completed in August by Raekwon's newly formed Third Eye Vision production company. 

"I want fans to know that this film is dedicated to them," he says. "Long after we're gone, this project will still remain and be our account and interpretation of a great album. I'm excited about creating something we can all enjoy and be proud of."

Additional reporting by Jason Newman

Read more: http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/raekwon-talks-scope-of-cuban-linx-doc-reveals-crowdfunding-perks-20150309#ixzz3TuWB9Gkl