Tupac Shakur, better known by his stage names 2Pac and Makaveli, is one of the most famous and influential figures in hip-hop history. Born Lesane Parish Crooks in Brooklyn, New York on June 16, 1971, Tupac was raised in a family of activists and performers. His mother, Afeni Shakur, was a member of the Black Panther Party, and his father, Billy Garland, was a vocalist in the Black Liberation Army. Tupac’s parents separated when he was five, and he was raised by his mother in Harlem.

Tupac began his career as a rapper in the early 1990s, releasing his debut album, 2Pacalypse Now, in 1991. The album was a critical and commercial success, and it established Tupac as one of the most important figures in the burgeoning gangsta rap scene. Tupac’s follow-up albums, Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z. (1993) and Me Against the World (1995), cemented his status as one of the most popular and influential rappers of all time.

Tupac’s lyrics often focused on the struggles of inner-city life, and he was known for his passionate and outspoken lyrics. He was also a skilled actor, appearing in films such as Juice (1992), Poetic Justice (1993), and Gridlock’d (1997). In addition to his music and acting career, Tupac was also an activist and a philanthropist. He was a vocal advocate for social justice and was a strong supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Tupac’s life was tragically cut short when he was shot and killed in Las Vegas on September 13, 1996. His death sent shockwaves through the hip-hop community, and he has since become an icon in the genre. Tupac’s influence can still be felt today, and his music continues to inspire and influence new generations of hip-hop fans.

Tupac’s legacy has been kept alive by his family, friends, and fans. His mother, Afeni Shakur, established the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation, which works to promote the legacy of her son through art, music, and education. The foundation has also created a museum dedicated to Tupac’s life and work. In addition, the foundation has organized annual events to commemorate Tupac’s life and legacy.

Tupac’s influence on hip-hop culture is undeniable. He is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures in the genre, and his influence can still be felt today. His music continues to inspire and influence new generations of hip-hop fans, and his legacy will continue to live on for years to come. Tupac Shakur is an icon in hip-hop culture, and his legacy will continue to live on for generations to come.