Tupac
Tupac Shakur, born Lesane Parish Crooks on June 16, 1971, in New York City, and later renamed Tupac Amaru Shakur, was an influential American rapper, actor, and activist. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most impactful rappers of all time, known for his raw and poetic lyrics that addressed social issues, personal struggles, and political themes. Tupac began his music career in the early 1990s as a member of the hip-hop group Digital Underground before launching a successful solo career. His debut solo album, "2Pacalypse Now" (1991), received critical acclaim for its social commentary on issues such as police brutality and racism. He followed up with several highly successful albums, including "Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z..." (1993), "Me Against the World" (1995), and "All Eyez on Me" (1996), which became one of the best-selling rap albums of all time. Hits like "Dear Mama," "California Love," "Changes," and "Hail Mary" remain iconic. Tupac was also a talented actor, starring in films such as "Juice" (1992), "Poetic Justice" (1993), and "Above the Rim" (1994), showcasing his versatility and broadening his influence beyond music. His life was marked by legal troubles, feuds, and a highly publicized rivalry with fellow rapper The Notorious B.I.G. This East Coast-West Coast rap feud became one of the most infamous conflicts in hip-hop history. Tupac's life was tragically cut short when he was shot in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas, Nevada, on September 7, 1996. He died six days later, on September 13, 1996, at the age of 25. His murder remains unsolved, adding to his enigmatic legacy. Despite his brief life, Tupac's impact on music, culture, and social activism endures. His powerful messages, charismatic persona, and artistic achievements have solidified his status as a legendary figure in hip-hop and popular culture.