Tupac Amaru Shakur
- Born:
- June 16, 1971, East Harlem, New York City, New York, USA
- Died:
- September 13, 1996, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Rapper, Actor, Poet, Activist
Early Life and Education
- Born Lesane Parish Crooks, later renamed Tupac Amaru Shakur.
- Mother, Afeni Shakur, was a member of the Black Panther Party.
- Attended Baltimore School for the Arts, studying acting, poetry, jazz, and ballet.
- Moved to Marin City, California, in his teenage years.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his music career as a roadie and dancer with the Digital Underground.
- Released his debut album, 2Pacalypse Now, in 1991.
- Achieved mainstream success with subsequent albums like Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z. and Me Against the World.
- Starred in several films, showcasing his acting talent.
- Became a prominent figure in the West Coast hip hop scene.
- His career was marked by both critical acclaim and controversy.
Notable Works
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1992 | Juice | Bishop |
| 1993 | Poetic Justice | Lucky |
| 1994 | Above the Rim | Birdie |
| 1996 | Bullet | Tank |
| 1997 | Gridlock'd | Spoon |
| 1997 | Gang Related | Detective Rodriguez |
Discography (Studio Albums)
| Year | Title |
|---|---|
| 1991 | 2Pacalypse Now |
| 1993 | Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z. |
| 1995 | Me Against the World |
| 1996 | All Eyez on Me |
| 1996 | The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory (as Makaveli) |
Legacy and Impact
Tupac Shakur remains one of the most influential and iconic figures in hip hop history. His music addressed social and political issues, personal struggles, and the realities of life in marginalized communities. Despite his untimely death, his work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, solidifying his place as a cultural icon. The posthumous film Gridlock'd and albums further cemented his lasting fame and artistry.