Today marks the 15th year anniversary of Tupac’s death. While most hip hop aficionados will spend the day spinning Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z. and reminiscing about what they were doing the moment the news broke about Pac being shot, some like me will awkwardly stand in the background looking down at our shoes for the proper words to convey to those so moved by his life and legacy. See I was not a fan of Tupac’s music, and while I did respect him as an artist, his messages did not touch me like it did most. But that is not to disparage the ones he did move and inspire. I would, however, call Tupac a musical conduit. He not only influenced his listeners, he motivated and shifted a change in the music we listen to today. And as you reflect on his musical legacy, please don’t forget that he was more than an artist. He was someone’s child, someone’s friend, someone’s brother. And he will be always missed.
“I’m not saying I’m gonna change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brain that will change the world.” – Tupac Shakur
