When it comes to rappers who have made music that is truly inspirational and meaningful, Tupac rises above the rest. While his “thug life” attitude made him an icon of gangster rap, it was his messages towards social justice and the depth of his poetry that make him an enduring artist. Activism is in his blood, with his mother Afeni Shakur being a member of the Black Panthers. It was that background mixed with his schooling in the arts in Baltimore, where he learned drama, poetry, and dance, which made him such a unique artist.
All of that experience combined with the environment of poverty and hardship that he witnessed amongst African Americans. Tupac put what he saw and experienced into his music, and it was with his insight that he became a star, going from his more dance-oriented music with Digital Underground to the more socially conscious solo work. He said that the same way that the Vietnam War footage got people’s attention and made them demand for the war's end, the same could happen if he shares what is going on in black communities.
It was not only in music that Tupac made a mark, but he also was a promising actor, having starred in the film Juice. With his success, he became concerned that the police were out to get him, especially as his music touched on police brutality. He even got involved in a shooting with the police once, in what he claims was self-defense.
Tupac had many dramatic incidents in his personal life, especially as he grew more famous, but he always stayed focused on his work. He was highly prolific, which is why new music of his never stopped being released after he was murdered. The vast catalog of music he left behind has ensured that generations of fans will be able to connect with one of the most real rappers to ever carry the mic.
He was the definition of authentic, and while he had clever wordplay, a compelling voice, a smooth flow, and a great sense of rhythm and melody, it was his realness that really gave him an emotional connection with his audience. When we listen to Tupac, we feel like he is talking right to us, and we feel like we know him. There will never be another like him, and he is missed.