Martin Shkreli, the infamous ‘Pharma Bro’ who rose to notoriety for his role in the price-gouging of a life-saving drug, has found himself at the center of another controversy. This time, it’s not about medicine, but music – specifically, a rare Wu-Tang Clan album that he owns.

The Album: ‘Once Upon a Time in Shaolin‘

‘Once Upon a Time in Shaolin‘ is a unique album by the legendary hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan. Released in 2015, it was produced over a period of six years and features all surviving members of the group. The album was recorded in secret, with the aim of creating something that would stand the test of time, much like a piece of art.

Martin Shkreli‘s Purchase

Shkreli, who was then the CEO of Turing Pharmaceuticals, purchased the album for $2 million in December 2015. The sale was facilitated by Paddle8, an online auction house that specializes in art and collectibles. The album was sold as part of a package deal that included a leather-bound manuscript detailing the creation of the album, as well as a certificate of authenticity.

The Controversy

Shkreli’s purchase of the album sparked outrage among fans and critics alike. Many saw it as a symbol of the excesses of the wealthy elite, with Shkreli using his vast fortune to acquire a piece of cultural history that would be inaccessible to the vast majority of people. Others were upset that the album, which was intended to be a unique piece of art, had been bought by someone who had made his fortune by exploiting the sick and vulnerable.

The Album’s Fate

Since purchasing the album, Shkreli has been relatively quiet about his plans for it. In a series of interviews and social media posts, he has hinted that he may release the album for free, but so far, nothing has been officially announced. Fans of the Wu-Tang Clan remain hopeful that the album will one day be made available to the public, but for now, it remains in Shkreli’s private collection.

Conclusion

Martin Shkreli‘s purchase of ‘Once Upon a Time in Shaolin‘ has sparked a heated debate about the intersection of art, money, and power. While some see the album as a symbol of the excesses of the wealthy elite, others view it as a unique piece of cultural history that should be shared with the world. As the saga continues to unfold, one thing is certain: the story of this album will be remembered for years to come.

So, what do you think? Should Martin Shkreli release the album for free, or is it his right to keep it as a private collector’s item? Let us know in the comments!