Ayo, meet Valerio Zeno.

A real sneaker aficionado with that spinto for kicks. Spinning records was cool for a while, but being on screen? That’s where he truly shines. Valerio’s got that bella figura, knows just how to make people feel at home.

We hit him with 8 questions to dive deep into his Wu-Tang passion. Andiamo!

Yo, get ready—8 questions with Zeno, all about them kicks and that Wu-Tang fire. Let’s roll!

How did you first get introduced to Wu-Tang, and what do they mean to you personally?
When I was in high school, I became interested in hip-hop, partly because I was skateboarding. Every week I would go to a record store that specialized in hip-hop and R&B to listen to new albums. The internet and Spotify didn’t exist yet, so this was the only way to stay updated on new releases in these genres. And there at the counter, I heard 36 Chambers for the first time. Because I listened to it daily during my teenage years, it always reminded me to choose my own path and do what I think is cool.

The Meaning of Wu-Tang: If you had to explain the essence of Wu-Tang to someone who has never heard their music, what metaphor or analogy would you use?
Extremely raw hip-hop, which, thanks to the different members, each with their own unique voice and flow, is very varied. The use of samples from kung-fu films makes it sometimes cinematic, dark, and mysterious.

How do you think Wu-Tang Clan’s influence on hip-hop will be viewed 50 years from now, and what aspects of their legacy do you believe are often overlooked?
The rawest hip-hop group of that time. In my opinion, due to their lack of business insight, they could have been even bigger. I think the current generation doesn’t really know who they are. And now that I think about it, maybe Ol’ Dirty Bastard was actually the first (screaming) mumble rapper. As contradictory as that sounds.

Evolution of Sound: How do you feel Wu-Tang's sound has evolved over the years, and what does that evolution say about the broader changes in hip-hop?
I actually think it’s really cool that they’ve stayed true to their style. Even when Method Man raps in a commercial about sour candies, it’s still a typical Method Man track. The music will never be polished, always raw, and that makes them unique.

RZA is not only a rapper but also a talented producer, composer, and filmmaker. What’s your favorite production from RZA, and what makes it special?
Not only was the use of samples from kung-fu films innovative, but he also used the melody from the cartoonUnderdogforWu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing Ta F Wit. It’s really clever how he transformed a cartoon intro into a track that clearly makes the point: don’t mess with this 'clan.' It shows that he draws inspiration from everywhere.Liquid Swordsis even rawer and very grimy. It doesn’t matter where I listen to it, I’m immediately transported to a dark, cold, deserted street corner. With the highlight beingCold World.

Wu-Tang's members often adopt aliases that reflect their personal philosophies and backgrounds. If you could create a Wu-Tang alias for yourself, what would it be and why?
I would probably focus on marketing, because I’ve always liked when you tell a complete story instead of just releasing an album. In that respect, they’ve done a lot of original things. Take the albumLiquid Swordscomplete with a chessboard. The PlayStation gameShaolin Style, which came with a controller shaped like the Wu-Tang logo. And, as a highlight, the albumOnce Upon a Time in Shaolin, where only one copy was made.

For you, what does owning or wearing a pair of Wu-Tang Dunks symbolize beyond just fashion? How does it connect to your personal narrative or your relationship with Wu-Tang’s music?
It shows what kind of music you love, that you're a sneaker enthusiast, and which generation you're from. It’s beautiful when multiple interests come together in one product, and you’re part of the 'swarm.' I didn’t think these Dunks would ever be re-released, especially since 2023 was eerily quiet when36 Chamberscelebrated its 30th anniversary, and this would have been a perfect opportunity. But thankfully, Nike & Wu-Tang 'Reunited' 👐.