Tupac Amaru Shakur would have been celebrating his 38th birthday today. I still can't believe he was just 25 years old when he was murdered. I always felt he was an old soul—a prophet in my eyes. Although he made numerous references to his untimely death, his passing still shocked the world. I was still in junior high at the time, but I remember that day like it was yesterday. I felt numb. I didn't understand how such a tragedy could actually occur.
I followed Shakur's music and writing, and I always believed he was misunderstood. Sure, many of his tracks glorify crime and the mistreatment of women, but I don't feel those are an accurate representation of what he believed in. With the exception of most of his singles, his music was political. I think of the songs "Dear Mama" and "Keep Ya Head Up," and I know his intention was to get his fans and anyone who would listen to THINK. I watch old interviews conducted while he was prison, in which he sensibly explains his side of the story. And it's clear to me that he was much more wise than some think.
I listen to rap music today, and I'm disappointed. I'm disappointed because very few (if any) have the wit, intellect and charisma Tupac possessed. I can only hope that my lifetime will once again see such a soul.
2Pac - Dear Mama
2Pac - They Don't Give A Fuck About Us
2Pac - Thugz Mansion
2Pac - Last One Breathin
2Pac - To Live And Die in L.A.
2Pac - Never Had A Friend Like Me
2Pac - Changes
