1971: Forty-two years ago, one of hip-hop's most
influential and tragic figures was brought into the
world. On June 16, 1971, Tupac Amaru Shakur was
born in the East Harlem neighborhood of Manhattan.
Born to a family of Black Panthers, and named after a
legendary Peruvian revolutionary, Tupac was destined
to oppose the status quo.
His artistic abilities were discovered at an early age.
During his high school years, he attended the
Baltimore School for the Arts, where his reputation as
a gifted rapper began. After displaying his rapping
skills on a few guest appearances with Digital
Underground (a group he started out as a backup
dancer for), Tupac released his very first album,
2Pacalypse Now. The rest was history.
Tupac's life was one riddled with controversy, legal
trouble, and violence. His music, however, has left an
indelible imprint on music lovers from all walks of life.
The passion, skill, and honesty which fueled Tupac's
music has influenced artists from Eminem to Talib
Kweli. His music touched on every aspect of life, from
family ("Dear Mama" to personal sadness and
insecurity ("So Many Tears". His extensive catalogue
of work has allowed him to live on even today. As hip-
hop lovers celebrate his 42nd birthday, one can only
imagine what the music scene would be like if Tupac
Amaru Shakur were here to celebrate it too.-iykofias

Hbd makaveli d don_kip restin in pEAce homie

Mtcheeew.. Iz he still alive ni? Berra stp tawking trash

donadexco: Mtcheeew.. Iz he still alive ni? Berra stp tawking trash

legends dnt die

Happy birthday to the greatest rapper alive!