Born 49 years ago today as Lesane Parish Crooks, we all knew him as the first name in the following that his was later changed to: Tupac Amaru Shakur. (I know someone who once said he would name his son Amaru after him; he didn’t, but I digress). 2Pac, or even just Pac, which I often refer to him as, was born on June 16, 1971. Similar to Prince, another talented Gemini who was true to his sign, Tupac could go to any place in his subject matter. From inspiring to brooding to boastful to dark, it all exists and then some in both his lyrics and delivery.
I truly believe that what made him so unique is the fact that he was the son of a Black Panther who was simultaneously embraced by the hip hop community while showcasing his acting chops on television (his guest appearance on A Different World was a really big deal at the time) and in movies. His attendance of a performing arts school was evident. Speaking of movies, I never pass up an opportunity to talk about how much I love Poetic Justice… that’s definitely my favorite of all of his films, and one of my favorite films period. The beautiful California scenery, the music, the cast(Janet! Regina!), John Singleton. It was lightning in a bottle.
At any rate, similar to previous birthday entries, I’ll simply post a few of my personal favorites by Pac, as well as what they mean for me.
Oh, and another thing, this is Tupac, so be aware of language and where you’re listening/who you’re listening around. Just a little disclaimer.
Happy 49th Birthday Tupac!
https://youtu.be/Wz2wVLyTar4
“To Live And Die in L.A.”: There are a couple reasons I’m including this song, as well as why it’s first. First, it samples a Prince song, who I mentioned above. The beat, bass, and melody are taken from “Do Me Baby” by Prince, which I love for its piano arrangement, and you can hear that mainly in the chorus of “To Live And Die in L.A.”. Secondly, this line, which crossed my mind instantly in the wake of riots that occurred across the country after the murder of George Floyd: We may fight amongst each other, but I promise you this: we’ll burn this b—h down, get us pissed. In just that one line and few words, Pac makes an illusion to the L.A. riots of 1992, which were a direct result of the acquittal of the police officers who were recorded violently and unnecessarily beating an inebriated and non-threatening Rodney King. The line has been relevant in recent weeks for the obvious reason that I stated before, as well as because it addresses black on black crime while simultaneously promising that the black community will unite in the face of injustice. We’ve been doing that since being brought to this country. Again, he was the son of a Black Panther, so he never shied away from politically charged lyrics or statements.
“I Get Around”: Listen, I just love this song. From the “Computer Love” sample to his delivery, I’m usually moving and saying every word from the very second it starts. Definitely a feel good party song.
“Thugz Mansion”: This was a posthumous release in the early 2000s; I was a junior in high school when it came out, if I recall correctly. I loved it then and I still do now. It’s one of a few go-to songs for me when I’m feeling down or for when deceased loved ones are heavy on my mind. I love these opening lyrics: “A place to spend my quiet nights, time to unwind…“
“Picture Me Rollin'”: The bravado and “look at me now” vibe of this song are what make it a favorite of mine. He was talking all the trash and I’m still here for it. Highlights for me are his use of the word “busters” when he’s talking at the beginning(the way he says it just tickles me, haha), and the very last words he says at the end of the song after the beat fades: Any time y’all wanna see me again Rewind this track right here, close your eyes And picture me rollin’ Just seems especially poignant seeing as he’s no longer with us.
“So Many Tears”: Absolutely a favorite of mine by Pac. I don’t even know where to begin with this song. First off, it samples one of my favorite Stevie Wonder songs, “That Girl”. It also falls on the heavier end of the spectrum as far as subject matter is concerned. He speaks of shedding a lot of tears over the loss of friends and loved ones over the years, as well as feelings of paranoia, despair, having suicidal thoughts, and his own impending death, which Tupac did often. The latter has always interested me about him; it’s like he knew he wouldn’t be around long. It is sadly prophetic in that way, but his vulnerability and delivery on this song are what make it a favorite. It’s another go-to for me during certain times.
“Me Against The World”: This is another favorite of mine. Despite the title sounding negative, this is a more positive go-to song by him for me. In my opinion, the title just highlights the fact that you often have to stand alone to see achievements through; it’s just you versus the world. Pac was saying “me against the world” in that way, as well as because of the fact that he clearly felt targeted at the time. He drops so much knowledge in it, but the whole last verse is what stands out the most, especially: “Even the genius asks questions”
“How Do U Want It”: No big description for this one. Just a dope song, then and now. It also brings back random funny memories from throughout the years. Pretty sure I know every word, including K-Ci and Jojo’s parts.
“Keep Ya Head Up”: I figured I’d save this one for last. It is widely regarded as one of his most positive and inspiring songs. I don’t listen to it as often as I do some of the others I’ve listed here, but when I do, it’s usually because it is really speaking to how I’m feeling and I need to hear something uplifting and encouraging, especially as a black woman. He is urging women to keep our heads up in spite of obstacles and hard times. That message was much needed at the time and still is today. It’s one of his softest, most sensitive, and most empathetic pieces of work. Shoutout to Dave Hollister on the chorus and with the adlibs too. I know Pac was criticized in the years following this for the ways he referred to women, among other things, but that shouldn’t diminish the message of this song. One of my favorite lines is actually from this song: Dying inside but outside you’re looking fearless I love that line so much because I really feel it. I don’t know about anyone else, but I’ve definitely had times where I haven’t felt my best in one way or another(mentally, emotionally, physically, etc.) but no one could tell because on the outside I looked fine. It really speaks to the strength that women(especially black women) have to tap into, even on days when that is difficult.
There are many more songs that I could’ve included, but I was trying to keep it at less than 10 songs. Also, a lot of the other songs will be covered in future entries on sampling.
Before I wrap this up though, I have to acknowledge The Rose That Grew From Concrete, a poem that was included in a collection of poetry and writing penned by Tupac. As a middle school English teacher, I was actually planning to use it in a poetry unit before the abrupt closure of schools back in March. Like “Keep Your Head Up”, the words of this poem show his softer and insightful side. Imagine a rose growing from concrete; in essence, he’s saying that beautiful things can be found in unexpected places. Think about it: concrete is hard. Tough. One would be surprised to see something as delicate and beautiful as a rose growing from it, but it’s possible. It is synonymous with people; a rose, or a wonderful person, can form from even the most dire of circumstances. Such a positive and inspiring thought process there.
A true artist, he was. From his performing arts background to his writing to his connection with Digital Underground, his path to becoming a hip hop legend was a unique one, which in turn contributed to how misunderstood he was, in my opinion.
With that, I say once again: Happy Heavenly 49th Birthday, Pac!
4 thoughts on “Black Music Month: Happy Birthday Tupac!”
Just finished reading your Tupac entry. Couldn’t wait…so I read it while eating my lunch. I am learning so much about these artists that I didn’t know. Tupac was certainly an intriguing and intelligent young man, as well as talented. It’s a shame that his life was cut short. I can only imagine the “great” music that would have been created. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TUPAC!!! I can’t wait to read more. ♡
I love that you couldn’t wait! Glad you’re learning and I agree with your description of him. His life ending so soon still saddens me…he had a lot of promise.
Happy Heavenly Birthday Tupac!
*His birthday is one day before mine.😊
Great post to celebrate him. He was a very smart man and un unfortunately, very misunderstood by many. He used his gift of writing, thinking, rhyming to educate others. Sadly, he was still misunderstood.
I was looking for “California Love” to be on this post! One of my faves because of the groove of the song. I remember celebrating my 35th birthday (or maybe it was 34th) in Cali and visiting the Madame Tusseauds wax museum in San Francisco. Inside the museum was a “music room” & Tupac was one of the artist included in the room and “California Love” was playing at the time I walked in! I logged onto Instagram and recorded myself grooving in the music room! Lol…I enjoyed myself that day.
Rest in peace, Tupac🕊💛🙏🏾
Yes, I remember that Nikki! Fun times. 🙂 I know you and others are probably surprised that “California Love” wasn’t included since it’s one of his most famous songs, but I’m planning to cover it in a sampling entry, plus out of his California-themed songs, I decided to go with “To Live In Die In L.A.” 😉 But you know I love me some “California Love”.
Just finished reading your Tupac entry. Couldn’t wait…so I read it while eating my lunch. I am learning so much about these artists that I didn’t know. Tupac was certainly an intriguing and intelligent young man, as well as talented. It’s a shame that his life was cut short. I can only imagine the “great” music that would have been created. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TUPAC!!! I can’t wait to read more. ♡
I love that you couldn’t wait! Glad you’re learning and I agree with your description of him. His life ending so soon still saddens me…he had a lot of promise.
Happy Heavenly Birthday Tupac!
*His birthday is one day before mine.😊
Great post to celebrate him. He was a very smart man and un unfortunately, very misunderstood by many. He used his gift of writing, thinking, rhyming to educate others. Sadly, he was still misunderstood.
I was looking for “California Love” to be on this post! One of my faves because of the groove of the song. I remember celebrating my 35th birthday (or maybe it was 34th) in Cali and visiting the Madame Tusseauds wax museum in San Francisco. Inside the museum was a “music room” & Tupac was one of the artist included in the room and “California Love” was playing at the time I walked in! I logged onto Instagram and recorded myself grooving in the music room! Lol…I enjoyed myself that day.
Rest in peace, Tupac🕊💛🙏🏾
Yes, I remember that Nikki! Fun times. 🙂 I know you and others are probably surprised that “California Love” wasn’t included since it’s one of his most famous songs, but I’m planning to cover it in a sampling entry, plus out of his California-themed songs, I decided to go with “To Live In Die In L.A.” 😉 But you know I love me some “California Love”.