Tag: 2pac

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FM Sports Trending

Floyd Mayweather Makes a Shocking Confession

Floyd Mayweather Tupac Shocking Confession
Floyd Mayweather. Image source: Getty Images.

When one hears the name, Floyd Mayweather, the mind races to the ring. But today, “Pretty Boy,” Mayweather is the topic of conversation for an entirely different reason.

Floyd Mayweather recently went public with a shocking confession about Tupac, and it has tongues wagging.

Floyd Mayweather: “Pretty Boy,” With Golden Hands

“Pretty Boy,” Floyd Mayweather is known for his impressive boxing career. He reached GOAT status with 50 bouts, 50 wins, 15 title wins, and 27 KOs. In 2021, he was recognized for his skills in the ring with an induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

However, none of this is unexpected, especially for an athlete of his caliber and with such a work ethic. According to Sports Brief, Mayweather’s been priming his fist since he took his first step into professional boxing at age 11. While his prowess and achievements are no secret, it turns out that Mayweather’s knowledge about Tupac’s murder was until now.

Mayweather’s Revelation

According to a recent Twitter post, Floyd Mayweather is now confessing that he witnessed Tupac’s murder. And in his words,

“I ain’t never told anybody.”

Reportedly on the night in question, the famed boxer had pulled up beside the “All Eyez on Me Artist” artist at the intersection where he was shot.

Mayweather also confirmed to the press, “I pulled up beside 2Pac, pulled up right here. They shot 2Pac at this light, and the car went that way.”

For many, this is interesting news and raises questions. Why Mayweather only opened up now?

Mayweather’s Confession: Why Now?

Recently police have reopened the investigation into Tupac’s murder.

According to a major news outlet, according to a warrant, several items were taken in conjunction with the investigation, including computers, photographs, a copy of a Vibe magazine with Tupac featured, and other documents.

But just as there is no rationale as to why Floyd has offered his revelation now, there is no confirmed reason for reopening the case. There are a lot of theories, from the changing of the guard (police force) to the much talked about docuseries “Dear Mama,” but theories are simply that.

“It Ain’t No Secret:” What That Means

It’s interesting to know that over two decades after this senseless loss, we are still putting together the pieces. It is truly unfortunate that it has taken this long to lay things to rest. While justice never sleeps, it seems to be comatose at times. Many still lie in wait for justice to be fully served. And confessions such as Mayweather’s speak of this situation’s tragic nature and the code many people hold to in the wake of such incidents.

But while some may look at Mayweather’s confession with scorn, one must consider that he is not the only one who has come forth with knowledge of that night’s events. And according to a recent interview with esteemed director Allen Hughes, who killed Tupac was never really a secret. In the words of Hughes, “In the community and in the streets, it was never really a mystery who killed Tupac.”

And that’s as eye-opening as Mayweather’s confession.

The Long Arms of Justice

When the world lost Tupac, they lost a light. And as Hughes relayed in his interview, his death changed the trajectory of hip-hop. But light is energy and energy never dies. It carries on, as does Tupac’s legacy.

So, with great hopes this time around, there will be a conclusion to the matter that people may know there is such a thing as true justice. Not only is justice real, but there are those who remain committed to the dogged pursuit of such, no matter how long it takes.

Written by Renae Richardson 

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Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Celebration Featuring A New Street In Cleveland

Bone Thugs and harmony
Getty Images

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, the iconic rap group hailing from Cleveland, is about to receive a tremendous honor that will solidify their legacy in their hometown. A recent report reveals that the intersection of East 99th Street and St. Clair Avenue will be renamed to “Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Way” later this summer at a Bone-Thugs-N-Harmony celebration.

On August 11, from noon to 2 p.m., a ceremony will take place to commemorate this momentous occasion. The streets will fill with excitement as the city pays tribute to these rap pioneers who have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Above all, the renaming is thanks to a petition started just over a year ago. It’s an event that fans and residents of Cleveland won’t want to miss.

 

What’s The Reason For a Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Celebration?

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s impact on the rap scene cannot be overstated. Their distinctive harmonizing style, combined with their precise and versatile lyricism, sets them apart. As Cormega pointed out on Instagram, they are “one of the most unique rap groups ever.” The late Eazy E recognized their talent as a music executive, and his foresight paved the way for their success.

When discussing Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, it’s impossible not to mention their timeless hits. Especially, “1st of the Month.” This infectious track became an anthem that resonated with people from all walks of life. Its catchy melody and captivating lyrics brought attention to the group. Additionally, the song showcased their ability to create music that sticks with you long after the song ends.

Another notable masterpiece in their repertoire is “Crossroads.” This song took a topic as somber as death and made it sound beautiful. The accompanying music video added an extra layer of depth to the lyrics. Provoking thought and reflection. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s ability to blend profound storytelling with melodic hooks is unmatched.

Not only have Bone Thugs-N-Harmony left an undeniable mark on the rap genre. They have also achieved a remarkable feat that no other group can claim. They collaborated with both 2Pac and The Notorious B.I.G. prior to their tragic deaths. This alone calls for a Bone Thugs-N-Harmony celebration. As well as, solidifying their place in hip-hop history.

Will Bone Thugs-N-Harmony snag a spot in the Hall of Fame?

With such an impressive career, it begs the question: Will Bone Thugs-N-Harmony snag a spot in the Hall of Fame? Their influence and contributions to the rap scene are undeniable. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their staying power. As time goes on, it becomes increasingly clear that their impact on the music industry will stand the test of time.

As Bone Thugs-N-Harmony prepares to have a street named after them in Cleveland, it’s a moment of triumph and recognition for these rap legends. Their unique style, memorable hits, and collaborations with rap icons have secured their place in history. So mark your calendars for August 11 and join the celebration as Cleveland honors these pioneers who have captivated our hearts and minds with their extraordinary talent. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony Way will forever be a reminder of their influence and the mark they’ve left on their beloved city.

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Brittany Belizor | Instagram @brittieb_ | Twitter @bbelizor

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FM Cinema Trending

Director Allen Hughes Believes 2Pac Would Have Been Denzel’s Competition, If The Rapper Was Still Alive

Allen Hughes Says 2Pac Can Compete With Denzel
Tupac Shakur and Allen Hughes, in 1992. Image source: Atron Gregory.

Director Allen Hughes believes the late legendary rapper 2Pac would have been Oscar award-winning actor Denzel Washington’s competition. Allen Hughes is known for his work on “Menace II Society” (1993), “Dead Presidents” (1995), and “The Book of Eli” (2010) – which Denzel starred in. The West Coast rapper had an immaculate music catalog but was also a popular actor. He died in 1996 but left a large impact behind till this day.

Director Hughes Discussing Tupac’s Potential

Hughes discussed Tupac Shakur’s acting potential in his recent appearance on “The Rich Eisen Show.” The “Broken City” director said, “If he [Tupac] had been here, I think Denzel would have some stiff competition.” Then, he spoke about both men and their “emotional and social intelligence” being “off the charts.”

Although he did add, “The difference is, Denzel is very wise and can control his emotions and 2Pac [couldn’t].” The film director thinks Shakur would have been one of the best out now and had a few Academy Awards.

The film-making twins, Albert and Allen Hughes, with Denzel Washington shooting “The Book of Eli.” Image source: WARNER BROS.

Allen Hughes Directs FX’s “Dear Mama: The Saga of Afeni & Tupac Shakur”

The 51-year-old is the executive producer, writer and director of FX’s “deeply personal” five-part docuseries “Dear Mama: The Saga of Afeni & Tupac Shakur.” In addition, this story doesn’t go in chronological order yet takes you on a journey “back and forth in time” about a mother and son. You can stream it on Hulu or catch the series Fridays at 10pm on FX.

2Pac Attacks Hughes On Set

Tupac worked with the Detroit native on the “Brenda’s Got a Baby” music video. Plus, he cast Shakur in his debut film with Hughes’ twin brother, Albert. The film became a classic named “Menace II Society.” But the rapper was ousted for “causing trouble” on set. After 2Pac attacked the famed director in 1993.

The Cali native received an assault and battery charge. Therefore he got 15 days in jail and 30 months of probation, then that was the second time in less than a year he was prosecuted in Los Angeles.

Shakur’s Film Catalog

Tupac Shakur acted in well-known films, including “Gang Related” (1997), “Above The Rim” (1994), “Juice” (1992), and the film the girlies love with the legendary Janet Jackson “Poetic Justice” (1993).

Written by Vhannah | Instagram | YouTube

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FM Legal Trending

Tupac Estate Granted Motion To Dismiss Claims Of Ownership of Original Makaveli Painting

Tupac Estate Granted Motion
Rapper Tupac Shakur. Image source: Getty Images.

Tupac’s estate won the battle over the “Makaveli” painting. A judge granted a motion to dismiss claims against Tupac Shakur’s estate dealing with the ownership of the original “Makaveli” painting.

Pseudonym Makaveli

The original album cover painting is from Tupac Shakur’s “The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory,” but under the pseudonym “Makaveli.”

Tupac Estate Granted Motion
Original album cover painting from Tupac’s “The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory” (aka “Makaveli”) by Riskie Forever. Image source: Associated Press.

Zelus And Heritage Auctions In Collaboration With Riskie Forever

The original painting of the album artwork was to be auctioned with a chance to win percentage of the sales price. The company Zelus and Heritage Auctions in collaboration with Riskie Forever planned to auction the original album cover.

Amaru Entertainment wanted the auction shut down, and after an exchange of words the situation eventually had to go to court.

Zelus allegedly aims to revolutionize the way people interact with art and finance.

Who is Riskie Forever?

Artist Riskie Forever, also known as Ronald Brent, was introduced to Tupac by Suge Knight. His first project for Death Row was on Tupac’s “All Eyez On Me” album. They obviously liked what they saw and then Riskie got the opportunity to take part in “Makaveli: The 7 Day Theory.”

Tupac apparently walked the artist through his vision for what he envisioned the album cover would look like.

Tragically Tupac was never able to see or hear the reception he got from the album. But according to Riskie’s website, Tupac did see Riskie’s final product.

Case Dismissed By Judge

According to court documents obtained by the hip hop website, the judge dismissed the case without prejudice earlier this week. The Zelus group, Ronald Brent — who created the painting — and Leslie Ware wanted the judge to declare Ware the owner of the painting.

However, the court ruled it had no jurisdiction over Tupac’s estate and Amaru Entertainment.

Major Milestone Achieved In Late 2020

This coming after Tupac‘s estate achieved a major milestone a couple of years ago. His estate won a half of a decade battle over the Cali native’s unreleased music. The lawsuit claimed Entertainment One had breached a contract to pay Shakur’s royalties worth seven figures for “2007’s Beginnings: The Lost Tapes.”

The court ruled Entertainment One had to pay over six figures for royalties from Shakur’s posthumous releases.

Written by Vhannah | Instagram | YouTube

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The Reason Tupac and Michael Jackson Never Collaborated

Tupac Shakur and Michael Jackson are two of the most successful and influential artists in music. Both musicians transcended beyond simple musicians enjoyed by many. The two men transformed themselves into entertainment icons. 

Different Paths 

What is all the more impressive about the two is that they enjoyed massive popularity at roughly the same time. Michael Jackson achieved fame as a child along with his siblings. He maintained this level of stardom throughout the 1970s until the 1980s when his popularity skyrocketed. During that decade, Jackson released the iconic and groundbreaking albums “Thriller” and “Bad.” The legacy of these albums remains legendary, with many still considering them the pinnacle of pop. Jackson managed to do what few can claim and continued his fame for three decades. In 1991 he released his album “Dangerous.” This album went 8x Platinum and spawned the massive hit single “Black or White.” The album cemented Jackson’s status as a beloved musician even as the musical landscape changed drastically.

The same year and month as Dangerous, a young up-and-coming emcee named 2Pac debuted. His debut solo album “2Pacalypse Now” admittedly impacted the charts less than Jackson, but it did give the world its first taste of what was to come. He was a young and passionate poet who wore his emotions on his sleeves and didn’t care if the world didn’t like his message. His untimely death only immortalized Pac as one of rap’s all-time greats. Though debated by some, it is a common belief that Tupac Shakur is one of, if not the, greatest rapper of all time.  

The Failed Collabs of Michael Jackson and Tupac Shakur

 Both artists were widely believed to be the best at their respective genres; Jackson became known as the “King of Pop” and Tupac, often labeled as the “G.O.A.T.,” it would’ve been a dream to see the two collaborate. Such a song almost happened. According to journalist Ural Garrett, who put together an oral history of the creation of Tupac’s album “The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory,” Jackson and Shakur almost released a song.

According to Quincy Jones III, Michael Jackson almost ended up on a planned track for the album. He also claimed Jackson denied being on the song due to a previously established loyalty to Pac’s rival Biggie. However, this claimed Bad Boy loyalty was denied by Danny Boy, a former labelmate of Tupac.  

According to another Tupac associate, Napoleon of Shakur’s group The Outlawz, Pac once claimed Jackson requested a verse. However, Jackson failed to appear in the studio when Pac arrived. Shakur didn’t record the verse by taking the King of Pop’s absence as a sign of disrespect. Napoleon said, “He [Tupac] walked out on the opportunity because he was more about ethics and morals…If you want me to be on the song, at least say hi to me.”

Unfortunately for music fans, these two titans of the industry never got the chance to collaborate. Despite their combined collaborations with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Nas, Paul McCartney, and many more, they never found the opportunity to work together. The truth of why is ultimately unknown. Did Jackson mean disrespect towards Tupac? Whatever the case, the only thing left to do is wonder what great music almost got made and delight in what may have been.

 

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FM Feature Trending

Hip Hop & Roe V. Wade: A Long History

Roe V Wade And Hip Hop: A Long History
Pro-life and pro-choice demonstrators gather in front of the US Supreme Court. Image source: BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images.

Roe v Wade is a hot-button issue currently in the United States. But the medium of rap music has been speaking on it for decades.

It’s no secret music has a significant influence on American society’s social and political landscape. The 60s sound-tracked the public feelings on civil rights, and the hits of the 70s reflected Americans’ thoughts on the ongoing war. With rap being the most dominant genre of music on the Billboard charts, it works as a vessel for discourse in our modern day.

Following the 1973 Roe v Wade ruling, a precedent was set to consider abortion a constitutional right. At the time, this disrupted state anti-abortion laws across the country and sparked a pressing debate, continuing to this day. As the public’s view on abortion changes drastically over time, How has its narrative in Hip-Hop changed with it?

Fresh Off Roe V. Wade

One of the earliest and most condemning mentions of abortion in rap is the aptly under name “Abortion” by Doug E. Fresh. The 1986 song is entirely about opposing the procedure on a moral basis. Doug E. Fresh and the Get Fresh Crew reflected many Americans’ views back at the times when sex education was much hardly available.

36 years later, we see the same anti-abortion arguments as in 1986 Doug E. Fresh’s and the Get Fresh Crew’s song. However, today such discourse takes place on the Senate floor.

Mind distortion, the world morals is out of proportion

And I want it played in every Walkman

All of us were born into a life of sin

That’s something in the genes buried deep within 

But to give or take life, you must pay the price

Of course, this is just 13 years after Roe v Wade. Soon enough, many more artists and Americans alike would gain a deeper understanding. At least, for a bit of a while. 2

Tupac Turns The Tide

Tupac Shakur is known for being ahead of his time in more ways than one. This includes his take on reproductive rights. Seeing as how Shakur grew up with a single mother, he shows rare sympathy for young girls raising kids. In his 1993 song “Keep Ya Head Up,” Tupac clearly states his belief that women should have the right to choose.

And since a man can’t make one

He has no right to tell a woman when and where to create one 

So will the real men get up 

I know you’re fed up, ladies, but keep ya head up

Obviously, this is something Shakur felt passionate about. Two years earlier, he released “Brenda’s Got a Baby.” This well-known track details a pregnant young girl facing unimaginable hardship after suffering sexual abuse.

I hear Brenda’s got a baby

But Brenda’s barely got a brain

A damn shame, the girl can hardly spell her name

Tupac vividly paints a picture of the circumstances a baby can be born into when women are stripped of their reproductive rights. Notably, “Brenda’s Got a Baby” struck a chord with many listeners who never heard a record told from the mother’s viewpoint. It remains one of Tupac’s most beloved records in his impressive catalog.

Up Close & Personal

Another rapper who hasn’t shied away from the topic of abortion is Lauryn Hill. The Fugees alumna has a firsthand account of being pregnant and on the fence about getting the procedure. In her 1998 song “To Zion,” Hill describes in detail the pressure she was under to terminate her first pregnancy.

Woe this crazy circumstance

I knew his life deserved a chance

But everybody told me to be smart

‘Look at your career,’ they said

“Lauryn, baby, use your head” 

But instead, I chose to use my heart 

Now the joy of my world is in Zion

Zion came to Hill during a tumultuous time in her life and career. The then-22-year-old was just starting her solo career after a rocky relationship with bandmate Wyclef Jean. It’s easy to imagine those around Hill discouraging her decision, but the beauty of “To Zion” is the presence of a decision. Through a mix of storytelling and actual experience, the “Ex-Factor” MC expresses her love for her son and stands firmly in her choice.

Common and Lauryn collaborated on another song about family planning the previous year. “Retrospect For Life” follows a young couple discussing if they should start a family or not.

I wouldn’t choose any other to mother my understanding 

But I want our Parenthood to come from Planning  

It’s so much in my life that’s undone 

We gotta see eye to eye about family before we can become one

By the content and context of the lyrics, it’s clear that abortion has shifted from a complete taboo to an ordinary conversation. Of course, the public eye would still avoid the subject. However, many couples start talking behind closed doors. Kids impact everything for their parents, money, space, time, and “Retrospect For Life” gets candid about that. Similarly to Zion, this adds a human element to the debate.

The Hardest Decision

As Hip-Hop transitioned into the new millennium, the politics surrounding reproductive rights continued to evolve. Two rap songs from the 2000s, “What’s Going On” and “My Story (Please Forgive Me),” give a more regretful stance.

Love & Hip Hop star and artist Remy Ma loves to gush about her kids and the joy of motherhood. But avid fans know motherhood has always been a big part of her. In “What’s Going On,” featuring Keyshia Cole, Remy tells the tale of a young woman looking back on her abortion with remorse.

Tell me what’s going I know what I’m doing is wrong 

Can you hear me, Lord, when I’m calling? Forgive me, my baby

How am I supposed to feel the situation is real

Neva wanted to let you baby go. We’ll meet again, I know, baby

Similarly, in “My Story” by Jean Grae, pregnancy termination is allegedly dark and guilt-inducing.

See when the rain comes down, I know it’s fallin’ for me, and only for me

And when the pain comes around, there’s nowhere else I rather would be

I know what I’ve done. Please forgive me

It’s worth noting neither artist here puts down women who choose that planned parenthood trip. There are no petty insults or agendas but rather harsh truths about the realities of such a difficult choice. Like many rap songs about reproductive rights, simple storytelling here makes compelling points.

Looking Ahead At Roe V. Wade

More recent offerings in the Hip-Hop world reflect the still chaotic debate raging on. On the one hand, there’s still sympathy for potential mothers in tracks like “Lost Ones” by J Cole. The early 2010’s deep cut documents a young man telling his girlfriend he doesn’t think they’re ready to start a family. Abortion here is framed as a decision for a man and woman to make together for their own sake. However, many rappers in our current landscape still see abortion in an inherently negative light. “If These Walls Could Talk,” by Gat Turner and Viva Fidel, explicitly calls it murder.

Shook like an unborn man, my life in danger

Cause first sign of trouble mama looking for the hanger

Shook like an unborn mama trying to murder me 

First-degree abortion, devil call it surgery

Indeed, time doesn’t wash away long-held beliefs. These two songs perfectly exemplify the two sides of the coin in the contentious political battle. What appears as family planning to some has more immense moral implications for others.

Wherever you stand, it’s clear that reproductive rights are going through a change unseen since 1973. The country’s political landscape is slowly changing, and rap music will continue to be the soundtrack for that transition.

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Dreema Carrington|IG: @dr3amgirl79 | Twitter: @notdreema

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FM Legal Trending

Activists Working To Get Tupac’s Stepfather, Mutulu Shakur, Released

Mutulu Shakur

Today activists are working overtime to see the release of Tupac Shakur’s stepfather Mutulu Shakur.

Who is Mutulu Shakur?

Mutulu is a political activist, revolutionary, and stepfather to the late Tupac Shakur. He was a member of the Provisional Government of the Republic of New Afrika and affiliated with the Revolutionary Action Movement. Reportedly Shakur held close ties with the Black Panther Party. And, according to a source,

“He was an inspiration for many of the positive messages in his late adoptive son, Tupac’s, musical work.”

What Took Mutulu Shakur Under

Shakur had involvement in a 1981 armed robbery. According to The Moguldum Nation,

“They stole $1.6 million in cash and during the incident a Brink’s guard was killed and another was seriously wounded.”

He was on the lam for five years before being caught by the FBI. Finally, Mutulu was tried, in 1987, resulting in a 60-year sentence for conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). 

Call for Immediate Release

Currently, Mutulu Shakur suffers from stage-3 multiple myeloma. He’s been in prison for more than 35 years. And since his incarceration, he has sent up numerous petitions for parole.

2020 marks yet another denial after applying for compassionate release post-diagnosis. According to the Root,

U.S. District Judge Charles Haight Jr. said that his  (Shakur’s) crimes were too serious also asserting Shakur’s health had not deteriorated enough for a release.

So Mutulu remains in prison.

Activist Response

Activists are now hard at work on seeking Shakur’s release. The proponents argue that Mutulu has paid his debt to society. Furthermore, he’s continued to be a positive role model throughout his imprisonment. A statement on Shakur’s page read as thus,

“He (Shakur) has taken full responsibility for his actions, served as a force for good and anti-violence throughout his decades of incarceration, is an elder and has multiple health complications, and a loving family that needs him.”

Sadly it seems Mutulu’s current prognosis gives him six months to live. 

Something to Contemplate

This is an unfortunate situation. And such a situation makes one consider the imbalance between rehabilitation and punitive punishment within the U.S. penal system. And, at what point is compassion not only real consideration but a just recourse.

Written by: Renae Richardson

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Wiz Khalifa Gives Insight On Why He Prefers Biggie Over 2Pac

Wiz Khalifa
Image via Getty/Vivien Killilea

Recently, Wiz Khalifa answered the one question that all rappers are asked sooner or later. Do you prefer Biggie or 2Pac? The Biggie vs 2Pac debate has been around since the untimely deaths of both icons. Hundreds of rappers from all over the world have answered this question. During an interview at SiriusXM earlier this week, DJ Whoo Kid asked Wiz Khalifa about his preference between Biggie and 2Pac. Since Wiz has spent the majority of his life living on both the east and west coast. Though Wiz gives proper respect to 2Pac mentioning his work ethic and attitude he ultimately sides with Biggie. He credits his decision to Biggie’s complex lyrics and how you can still listen to him in the present time. 

“Biggie. I like Biggie because lyrically like you could still listen to Biggie’s shit today and be like, ‘Wow, he really said that. He talks about clothes, like brands in a crazy way and he talks about cars in a crazy way and he talks about women. He’s just really poetic. That’s not to say one is better than the other,” he mentions. “But I just love how complex his bars are. Pac is raw, Pac is crazy, he’s hard.”

Watch the full interview below.

Wiz Khalifa’s Connection To The East And West

Wiz has a very unique connection between the East and West sides of rap. He grew up 400 miles west of Brooklyn, the Pittsburgh native has always shown an appreciation for Biggie. Even going as far as sampling the rap legend on a few of his own tracks. Songs like “Gin and Drugs” and “The Race” both sample the classic Biggie song “Going Back to Cali.” Wiz has his own music he is also currently working on as well. He says he is ready for the release of his experimental Multiverse album that comes out next Friday, July 29. 

Written by Patrick Rodriguez | Twitter |

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Resurgence of 2Pac Generated Buzz

The resurgence of American rapper and actor Tupac Amaru Shakur, popularly known as 2Pac, generated buzz on the internet. Tupac’s death still haunts music and rap lovers across the world. His fans are still in disbelief of his death at such a young age. Recently, various images of 2Pac reappeared on Twitter and created conundrum in the hip-hop society.

2Pac’s Contemporary Images Shocked His Fans

On June 16, numerous images of 2Pac, bombarded Twitter, celebrating his birthday. However, various sources revealed the photos of 2Pac on Twitter looked truly contemporary. His fans started tweeting, pointing towards suspicion regarding controversy around his death. Pictures on Twitter already received 160,000 likes. One of his fans mentions, “ Tupac has too many fresh pictures. It’s starting to get suspicious.” Another fan writes, “Tupac was a famous rapper for like 4 years and he died 25 plus years ago but somehow they’re still releasing new pictures of him no one’s ever seen before, tell me how that’s possible if he’s not alive.” One fan says, “Somebody tell Tupac we know he was running away from Jada (Pinkett). We now understand, and he can come out. We need more good music”.

2Pac’s Controversial Death

At the age of 25, the rapper was shot dead in September 1996, in Las Vegas. Four bullets entered through his chest. Although he was taken to the hospital at University Medical Center, unfortunately, he later succumbed to his wounds. There are a number of conspiracy theories surrounding his tragic death. People across the rap world fabricate stories of him being alive. On October 2, 2018, Suge Knight’s son posted on Instagram with various feeds such as, “TUPAC IS ALIVE,” “TUPAC IS IN Malaysia,” and “The truth will be out and I’m not going anywhere.” Sources revealed 2Pac’s then bodyguard also claimed to have assisted the singer to fake his death and sending him to Cuba. The controversy around 2Pac’s death even inspired Rick Boss, a Los Angeles filmmaker to make a movie on 2Pac titled, 2Pac: The Great Escape From UMC. Later, fans found out that Ghanaian Twitter influencer Kalyjay, who enhanced all these images of 2Pac, using photo edit software, uploaded these pictures.


However, fans also wrote comments on 2Pac’s photos to honor his life. His albums such as 2Pacalypse Now, Me Against the World, and All Eyez on Me are all well-received by his fans.

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Jewell, The First Lady of Death Row Passes Away

Jewell Caples passed away at the age of 54.  The R&B singer was known as “The First Lady of Death Row Records.”  She passed away early this morning after being in the hospital for nearly two months.  She was admitted to the hospital because of issues with fluid in her heart, legs, and lungs.

Jewell was signed under Death Row Records in the mid-90s, during the height of the record label.  She made songs with N.W.A., Tha Dogg Pound, and Bone Thugs-n-Harmony.

R.I.P. The First Lady

Before joining Death Row, she was signed to Ruthless Records alongside Dr. Dre.  When Dre left Ruthless, she did as well.  Jewell’s debut album never surfaced, but she was able to appear on songs with Snoop Dogg, 2Pac, and Nate Dogg.  She can be heard on “The Chronic” by Dr. Dre, “Doggystyle,” and “Murder Was the Case” by Snoop Dogg.

Many fans went to social media to share their thoughts.

“woah man…RIP Jewell. She graced so many classic Death Row joints. A beautiful voice and underrated ingredient in West Coast hip hop.  Peace to her family & loved ones.”

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dazzel Dillinger (@dazdillinger)

Co-founder The D.O.C. praised Snoop Dogg for buying Death Row Records.  He is proud of Snoop and all his accomplishments, especially this one.  He claims everywhere he goes, he sees Snoop, whether it be in the grocery store, on TV, or on billboards.  The D.O.C. also acknowledges Snoop’s ability to use hip hop as a tool to make a great living.  He feels Snoop can use himself as an example and show the youth there are many ways through hip hop to make a great living just like him.

Snoop’s Power Moves

He pulled all of Death Row’s catalog from streaming services.  On an episode of Drink Champs, Snoop explained why he did this.  He said those platforms don’t pay enough, and his plan is instead to create a Death Row app where all Death Row music can be found.

“Those platforms get millions and millions and millions of streams, and nobody gets paid other than the record labels.  So what I wanted to do is snatch my music off, create a platform….”

Largely known that low royalty rates are paid out by companies such as Apple Music and Spotify, Snoop wants to put the control back in the artist’s hands.

WRITTEN BY: Brandon Simmons

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