Tupac Amaru Shakur, also known by his stage names 2Pac and Makaveli, is one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of hip-hop. Born on June 16, 1971, in East Harlem, New York, and raised in various parts of the United States, Tupac's life and career were marked by his poetic lyricism, raw storytelling, and advocacy for social justice. His music explored themes of violence, poverty, and racism, resonating with millions of fans around the world. Despite his untimely death at the age of 25, Tupac's legacy continues to impact music, culture, and social issues. Not just the name of Ali-G’s dog!
Tupac Career Highlights
1991
Tupac started his career as a backup dancer and rapper for the hip-hop group Digital Underground. He appeared on the track "Same Song"
1991
Debut Album - Tupac released his debut solo album, "2Pacalypse Now”. The album garnered critical acclaim and controversy for its provocative content.
1993
"Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z” - His second album featured hits like "Keep Ya Head Up" and "I Get Around” further establishing him as a prominent voice in hip-hop.
1994
Legal Troubles - Tupac was convicted of sexual assault and sentenced to prison. During this time, he was also shot five times in a New York recording studio, an incident that fueled the East Coast-West Coast rap feud.
1995
"Me Against the World" - Released while he was in prison, this album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, making Tupac the first artist to achieve this feat while incarcerated. It included the hit single "Dear Mama."
1995
Death Row Records - After his release from prison, Tupac signed with Death Row Records, led by Suge Knight. He quickly began working on new music.
1996
"All Eyez on Me" - Tupac released this double album, which is considered one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. It featured hits like "California Love" and "How Do U Want It."
Makaveli - Under the alias Makaveli, Tupac released "The Don Killuminati The 7 Day Theory” which included the hit "Hail Mary."
September 7, 1996 Tupac was shot multiple times in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas. He succumbed to his injuries at the age of 25.
Tupac Grammy Awards
Nominations - Tupac received six Grammy nominations throughout his career but did not win any. His nominations include
Best Rap Solo Performance for "Dear Mama" (1996)
Best Rap Album for "Me Against the World" (1996)
Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for "California Love" (1997)
3 Most Famous Tupac Songs
1. "California Love" (1996)
it peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
2. "Dear Mama" (1995)
this song is widely regarded as one of the greatest rap songs of all time. It showcases Tupac's vulnerability and poetic lyricism.
3. "Changes" (1998)
It samples Bruce Hornsby's "The Way It Is"
Tupac Quotes
I'm not saying I'm gonna change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brain that will change the world.
Tupac Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- East Coast-West Coast Feud: Tupac's rivalry with The Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls) is one of the most infamous feuds in hip-hop history. It was characterized by diss tracks, public insults, and escalating tensions that many believe contributed to both rappers' deaths.
- Legal Troubles: Throughout his career, Tupac faced numerous legal issues, including charges of assault, sexual assault, and battery. Posthumous Releases: Tupac has had numerous posthumous albums released, keeping his legacy alive. These include "R U Still Down? (Remember Me)" (1997), "Until the End of Time" (2001), and "Loyal to the Game" (2004).
- Hologram Performance: In 2012, a hologram of Tupac was performed at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, sparking discussions about technology and the ethics of using deceased artists' likenesses.
- Social Activism: Beyond his music, Tupac was known for his activism and outspoken views on social justice.
Tupac Shakur ratings
