Tupac Shakur was not only one of the most influential figures in rap music, he was also one of the most influential people in the world. His humanitarian wisdom coupled with a hardened sense of street knowledge captivated people around the world. He motivated generations of artists, creatives, and philanthropists to speak out for what they believe in, and though his untimely death shook the world, we can still see the effects of his legacy today.
Rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and many more are using their platforms to speak on the social injustices that have plagued underrepresented demographics for centuries. The West Coast is experiencing a renaissance as rappers have come together to extend the reach of the art form and reclaim the title as the best coast in the genre. The biopic about 2Pac's life was also recently released, and though it has received backlash about the legitimacy of its storyline, the film got one thing right: 2Pac was a badass.
All things considered, even 20 plus years after his death, 2Pac's discography is still as strong, socially aware, and banging as if it were just released. So we thought it would be dope to pay homage to the West Coast legend with a special Essentials feature showcasing some of his greatest tracks. Enjoy this list of hits from the Thug Life general.
"Dear Momma" & "Brenda's Got a Baby"
To start off the list we picked two of 2Pac's most widely respected tracks, "Dear Momma" and "Brenda's Got a Baby." Even today, the weight of each track is astounding. "Dear Momma," from 2Pac's third studio album -- Me Against The World, is a desperate plea to celebrate mothers for their sacrifices and unconditional love. "Brenda's Got A Baby," from 2Pac's debut -- 2Pacalypse Now, is a chilling commentary on hood politics, community, teenage pregnancy, and family.
From these two records, we can see 2Pac's skillful penmanship and his intricate genius. No one asked for music like this, especially from a gangster rapper, but 2Pac understood that he needed to create songs like "Dear Momma" and "Brenda's Got a Baby" for his generation and his demographic.
"Hail Mary" & "Ambitionz Az a Ridah"
While 2Pac is known for his socially conscious anthems, he is also renowned for his war-ready Thug Life attitude. "Hail Mary" and "Ambitionz Az a Ridah" are two of the hardest tracks in his catalog. Everything about them is menacing, from the vernacular on "Ambitionz Az a Ridah" to the spooky tone of "Hail Mary." 2Pac was really about that life and these two records prove that with ease.
"I Get Around" & "How Do You Want It"
In addition to being known as a gangster and an activist, Pac was also a sex symbol. The ladies loved him and he had flings with the likes of Madonna and Jada Pinkett. This pair of tracks perfectly encapsulates 2Pac's image as rap royalty and sex demigod.
"I Ain't Mad At Cha" & "Baby Don't Cry"
One of 2Pac's most impressive skills was his ability to create songs that seamlessly explain the plight of marginalized communities. "I Ain't Mad at Cha" and "Baby Don't Cry" powerfully describe some of the trials and tribulations that young minorities face every day.
These two songs touch on issues like rehabilitation, mass incarceration, and mental health. Both songs are exquisitely executed and are essential to any musical library.
"Changes" & "Keep Ya Head Up"
2Pac was without a doubt the people's champ. There have been few artists since that have been able to speak to the world like he did. "Changes" and "Keep Ya Head Up" are perfect examples of how 2Pac used his platform and voice to lift up the people and champion them to victory.
"2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted" & "Hit Em Up"
Though the beef between the Notorious B.I.G. and 2Pac met a tragic end, the quality of music that was released a result of the bout between the two rivals and their respective coasts is legendary.
"2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted" & "Hit Em Up" were ruthless and both are essential components of Pac's untouchable legacy. While we all wish we could have heard music with B.I.G. and Pac together, their beef produced some classics.
"I'd Rather Be Your Nigga" & "Thug Passion"
These two songs remind us that 2Pac always carried himself like a G. He was one of the most charismatic rappers of all time.
"Picture Me Rolling" & "Me Against the World"
A gifted poet, 2Pac was able to paint pictures in his music in a way that translated into reality for his fans. "Picture Me Rolling" and "Me Against the World" are two perfect examples of the vision that Pac was trying to share with the world. If there is anything we should thank this man for, it's for giving us the perspective to understand our own personal value no matter our social status.
"California Love" / "Me And My Girlfriend"
"California Love" / "Me and My Girlfriend"
The first song in this entry needs no introduction. "California Love" is one of the most popular rap songs ever, a West Coast party essential. The other track, "Me and My Girlfriend," is a gripping love tale -- one that also bumps. It isn't as famous as "California Love," but it's just as important to any 2Pac playlist.
"Holler If You Hear Me" & "So Many Tears"
2Pac is a fighter who bears his rawest emotions on all of his songs. He could be enraged on one track and deeply mournful on the next. He covered the emotional spectrum with ease, and that's why we love him. "Holler If You Hear Me" is a tumultuous public service announcement, while "So Many Tears" is a harrowing exploration of his psyche, broken from all the pain he has seen.
Honorable Mention: "To Live and Die in L.A." & "Life Goes On"
2Pac is the king of West Coast gangsta rap -- such an indispensable part of our beloved hip-hop. Pour up some Gin & Juice and finish off your playlist with these two classic cuts. Rest in Power Tupac Shakur and long live your legacy.