Tupac Shakur. Image from Ken Nanhoum
“I don’t have no fear of death. My only fear is coming back reincarnated.”
– Tupac Shakur
Some artists were aware that their time remaining on earth would be brief, as if they were in a race against time with the specter of death looming closely. Thus, instead of avoiding or concealing it, they directly confronted the situation and exerted maximum effort to establish their legacy. The first artist who comes to mind as exemplifying and most closely embodying that description is the late Tupac Shakur, also commonly known by his artist name 2Pac. I used to watch DVDs about his life. I was fortunate to have been able to purchase all of the albums released by him during his lifetime, as well as the ones released posthumously by his record label. When discussing the artist known as 2Pac with hip-hop enthusiasts and individuals deeply engaged in the culture, terms such as “legendary” and “the best” are likely to be among those readily voiced. Indeed, that is justified.
Unfortunately, Tupac Shakur was tragically murdered at the age of 25. Can you imagine that? During his brief lifetime, he accumulated a remarkable collection of works that would be listened to, collected, and valued. Tupac’s music continues to be widely listened to, particularly in the United States, where he is revered as a cultural icon in the black community.
When listening to his songs, particularly the later ones such as 2Pac’s double CD studio release “All Eyez On Me,” themes of mortality and anxieties about his legacy enduring posthumously are expressed. I distinctly remember watching a DVD titled “Thug Angel.” The DVD featured individuals from Tupac’s professional circle, including Quincy Jones, Treach of “Naughty By Nature,” and his stepbrother Mopreme. They recounted Tupac’s aspirations of leaving a lasting legacy through his music that would resonate for years to come. Furthermore, 2Pac did not have a desire for death. He made it known that he had no other choice but to arm himself, surround himself with his childhood friends (The Outlawz), and fellow allied hip-hop artists, and be with his crew wherever he went because many famous hip-hop individuals hated him due to his unparalleled artistry that was second to none. He sought to optimize his talents while they were within his reach and capability, knowing that people were seeking to kill him.
Indeed, Tupac was correct in all respects, as his name holds even greater esteem within and outside the hip-hop community following his sudden passing. 2Pac is highly regarded and revered. Inquire with anyone familiar with hip-hop culture from the 1990s, and they will understand the subject matter of my article.
One significant factor contributing to the legendary status of Tupac Shakur is his upbringing by Afeni Shakur, a former member of the Black Panther Party and prominent activist, who imparted valuable life lessons and insights in preparation for his future endeavors. Importantly, she forewarned him of the potential consequences associated with achieving fame, including the envy of others and the presence of numerous adversaries, such as individuals like former Puff Daddy, now known as Diddy, as well as artists like Mobb Deep, Lil Kim, and her affiliated group, Junior Mafia. These infamous hip-hop artists were intent on not only harming his reputation but also ending his life, which he had diligently worked to establish. Currently, the former Puff Daddy, now known simply as Diddy, is facing legal problems involving allegations of domestic violence captured on CCTV in a hotel, detailing the physical abuse he inflicted on his ex-girlfriend. Additionally, he faces charges of human smuggling, numerous counts of attempted murder, drug trafficking, exploitation of talent, and gun possession. Ironically, it is only now that some of Tupac’s enemies are being exposed for the monsters they truly are, but back in the ’90s, 2Pac was already attempting to expose them for their wrongdoing and criminal nature. At least Tupac is celebrated for his music, and his legacy remains intact.
In the 1990s. The current popular culture is significantly different from what it was in the past. The dominant figures in the scene were artists who had strong personalities. An exemplary illustration of this particular culture can be seen in the historical conflict between the West Coast and East Coast, a topic that may resonate with older readers. Do you recall the dispute between Bad Boy Records and Deathrow Records? Is Notorious B.I.G. a familiar artist? You now have a better understanding of the level of danger that 2Pac faced during that time. In all aspects, Tupac defied all expectations. Proof that Tupac Shakur previously sustained five gunshot wounds, survived a robbery and was ultimately gunned down. However, in the second attempted assassination, he was not as fortunate.
If one has a strong intuition or sense of necessity deep within inner thoughts, it is advisable to act on it promptly. Why delay until it has concluded entirely? This is my perspective on the ideology and philosophy of the late Tupac Shakur. He was aware that his time was coming to an end. When I listen to his musical compositions, including those released posthumously, it becomes apparent that Tupac Shakur possessed an uncanny ability to foresee future events or had intuitive insights into the circumstances surrounding his mortality.
Throughout Tupac’s lifetime, no other rapper could rival his talent, making him the greatest in the industry. To this day, 2Pac is considered the greatest! Tupac has been a source of inspiration to countless people from all over the world because of his songs. I mean, there are so many books, documentaries, songs, studies, plays, and even movies about the life of Tupac Shakur since he died in 1996. His life has even been taught in classes at some universities in the United States, proving how historically significant he was not only to the music industry and hip-hop culture but ultimately, in life. Imagine what Tupac could have achieved if he had lived past 25.
I don’t think many people under 30 realize that if you were to pit 2Pac against any current rapper or hip-hop artist, Tupac would outshine them on the mic and outperform them in every rhyme. Tupac Shakur could turn his words into poetry; his lyrical precision was unparalleled. He could mix up all the words and still convey complete sense. There are so many songs by Tupac that, when you listen to them today, they can move you, make you think, and prompt reflection on life. For those saying that he was only a “gangster rapper”; you are wrong because the man was a musical genius in every sense of the word.
Tupac was instrumental in teaching the youth the importance of optimizing their time and fully utilizing their talents, regardless of whether they were inherent or cultivated through hard work and dedication. Despite the brevity of his life, Tupac made significant efforts during his lifetime, particularly in his final years. Tupac Shakur had amazing insight and foresight in realizing that he would not live long, despite having the protection he needed from his closest friends, allies in the music industry, and the record label itself. 2Pac recorded numerous unreleased songs that he intended to release after his death. These tracks have since been compiled and released as posthumous albums. I am unable to comprehend why certain individuals continue to hold an unfavorable view of the deceased Tupac Shakur. Tupac ultimately experienced redemption, and his transgressions were absolved through the generous support and acknowledgment provided by his counterparts and acquaintances within the music industry and from fans all over the world. Ultimately, one’s name is the only identity on which to rely.
To gain insight into Tupac’s musical identity, one may listen to his musical works from any point in his career and realize what a musical genius he was. Tupac Shakur’s catalog of songs is nothing but impressive. To begin with, I suggest the songs “So Many Tears”, “Thug Passion”, “Dear Mama”, “Hit Em Up” and “Hail Mary.” Music appreciation does not solely involve following contemporary artists. Additionally, it also honors those who preceded us. I refer to it as thorough preparation. Renowned artists do not age. Their songs live forever. Although they have passed away, there are still individuals who remember and appreciate the contributions they made to the music industry. Tupac Shakur is unquestionably one of these once-in-a-generation artists. Regardless of one’s personal preferences for hip-hop music, it is undeniable that 2Pac was among the most accomplished artists in history and will forever be celebrated in the hearts and minds of the people he has touched with his immortal music.