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Unveiling the Shadows: A Vegas Search Warrant Resurfaces Hope in Solving Tupac’s Murder

The mysterious and unsolved murder of rap icon Tupac Shakur has haunted the music world for over two decades. In a surprising turn of events, a recent search warrant executed in Las Vegas has brought new hope for justice. As well as closure to Tupac’s murder. The raid, conducted at the home of Paula Clemons in Henderson, Nevada, sparked talk about her potential connection to the murder of the legendary rapper.

What Does the Nevada Home Have To Do With Tupac’s Murder?

The significance of Paula Clemons’ home being searched lies in her association with Keefe D, a former Crip member, who has made public claims about his involvement in the tragic event. Keefe D previously said he was in the car with the person responsible for the shooting. Igniting curiosity and scrutiny among investigators and fans alike.

The roots of Tupac’s murder trace back to a heated altercation. Tupac, along with Death Row Records founder Suge Knight and others, engaged in a fight with Orlando Anderson, who was suspected of being involved in the shooting. The encounter was captured on surveillance video, leading to speculation that it may have triggered a retaliation after the Mike Tyson fight.

Orlando Anderson, the alleged shooter, has denied any involvement in Tupac’s murder until killed in a separate shootout. Despite the case remaining open, many believed the chances of solving it were low. 

However, the recent search warrant at Paula Clemons’ home is a potential breakthrough in the investigation.

Insight From A Key Biggie Murder Detective

Greg Kading, a key murder investigator who worked on the case of another iconic rapper, The Notorious B.I.G., believes this new development could lead to answers. Kading gained insights into both Pac and Biggie’s murders while with the LAPD, also playing an essential role in uncovering crucial information from Keefe D back in 2009.

At the time, investigators made a deal with Keefe D that prevented them from using his confession to prosecute him. However, that arrangement became void once he went public with his story. Kading suspects that the Vegas Police Department may have been quietly building their case in recent years, waiting for the right moment to act. As the pieces fall into place, there is new hope for justice.

The search at Paula Clemons’ home indicates that the police had enough evidence to obtain a warrant, implying a credible connection to the Tupac murder case.

While this recent development brings newfound optimism, it is essential to approach it with cautious anticipation. Solving a case as complex and convoluted as Tupac’s murder requires meticulous investigation and examination of all available evidence. The passage of time may have blurred some details, but the dedication of law enforcement and the unyielding support of fans worldwide show that the quest for justice remains steadfast.

As we await further updates and developments in this ongoing investigation, let us remember Tupac Shakur not only as an exceptional artist but also as a symbol of resilience and courage. The impact of his words and music continues to resonate with generations, making it all the more imperative to bring those responsible for his untimely demise to justice.

In Conclusion

In the words of Tupac himself, “Reality is wrong. Dreams are for real.” And, for those who seek closure in his murder case, this recent search warrant is a glimmer of hope that the truth might finally emerge from the shadows that have haunted the legacy of one of hip-hop’s greatest artists.

Brittany Belizor | IG @Brittieb_ | Twitter @BBelizor

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Marlon Wayans Discusses New Comedy Special, Chris Rock, And Friendship With Tupac Shakur On ‘Drink Champs’

Well, well, you’re in for a real treat! On April 8, Marlon Wayans, a gifted comedian, and all-around hilarious person, graced us with his presence on Interval Presents’ “Drink Champs” podcast with hosts N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN. Marlon shared his thoughts on the challenges of being part of the Wayans family, his friendship with Tupac Shakur, and much more.

From the get-go, N.O.R.E. stated that Marlon Wayans is his all-time favorite comedian and guest on “Drink Champs.” And who can blame him? He is a comedic genius! The host then mentioned a moment where Wayans poked fun at one of “Drink Champs'” staff members, Sunny, for his “off-white” attire. Without skipping a beat, Marlon added more laughter to the discussion by teasing Sunny for looking older than he thought. “This n***a aged! You were the same dude, I thought that was yo son.” Marlon quipped. “You need to leave that weed alone, n***a.”

Marlon Wayans’ humor is unmatched! He truly knows how to brighten up any room with his infectious energy and witty jokes.

The Delicate Balance Of Comedian Comparisons

During the discussion, N.O.R.E. recalled a moment when he tweeted about Marlon’s new comedy special “God Loves Me” and asserted that it surpassed Chris Rock’s special. However, he deleted the tweet to avoid putting the two comedians against each other, as is often done with rappers. “It immediately reminded me of what people do with rappers,” N.O.R.E. remarked. “They put rappers against each other immediately and I didn’t want to do that. I didn’t want to say, ‘You know what,’ just because you have a special out, and he has a special out…you have to compare.'”

Marlon responded by revealing that he doesn’t retweet tweets that compare him to other comedians and that he has love and respect for Chris Rock.

“I love Chris Rock. Rock knows I love him…he’s like family,” Marlon emphasized before recounting an incident where Chris mocked him mercilessly at Laugh Factory, causing him to quit standup comedy for two decades. “How badly do you think I bombed that night where I quit for 20 years?” the White Chicks actor said.

Watch the “Drink Champs” episode with Marlon Wayans below, or listen to it here.

The Battle For The Rib Shack: Chris Rock vs. Marlon Wayans In “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka”

Let’s delve further into Chrisometry. During the discussion, N.O.R.E praised the iconic black sitcom “In Living Color,” directed by Keenen Ivory Wayans, the oldest brother in the Wayans family. After that, Marlon recounts in his latest comedy special, “God Loves Me,” how he was initially chosen to play Chris Rock’s role in the 1980s film “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka.” But Keenen ultimately picked Rock for the role as he was a better match for the character.

“In my new special, God Loves Me, if you would’ve saw it, I talk about how Chris Rock took my role,” Marlon explained. “I was supposed to do that part in the rib shack, but Chris had a beat, he had a dope set…a part of his standup that really worked for that. So Keenen gave him that part and that was supposed to be my part.”

Reminiscing On His Authentic Friendship With Tupac Shakur

As the conversation delved deeper, the actor spoke about his authentic friendship with the legendary Tupac Shakur. In his own words, “He was extremely funny, he was very smart…he was a great rapper, a gangster, a poet, an activist.” Marlon’s admiration for Tupac was evident, and he spoke of him with great fondness.

Furthermore, the “Scary Movie” star revealed that Pac was not just a rapper but also a multifaceted individual who was a true friend to him. The friendship he shared with Tupac grew stronger whenever they crossed paths. Despite his untimely passing, Marlon treasured his last conversation with Pac.

marlon
Marlon Wayans and Tupac Shakur in the 90s. Credit: Makaveli – Immortalized

“I saw him 20 minutes before he passed, me and Omar (actor Omar Epps). We went over there to give him love,” Wayans recounted. “Because we all performed as high school kids. It wasn’t an act, Pac wasn’t acting like Bishop (a character from the movie Juice) it was just a part of Pac.”

Marlon Wayans holds Tupac Shakur in high regard. He remembers him as an influential figure and a true friend.

“Air” With Ben Affleck And A Possible “White Chicks” Sequel!

The conversation flowed on, full of laughs and exciting facts about Ben Affleck’s latest film, “Air,” featuring Marlon Wayns, Chris Tucker, and many more stars. And as if that weren’t enough, the possibility of a sequel to the beloved comedy, “White Chicks,” was also on the table! Indeed, it was a delightful exchange filled with excitement and anticipation for what was to come.

Don’t forget to hit the theaters to watch the currently released movie “Air.” Check out the trailer below:

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RELATED: ‘Drink Champs’ Episode: Battle Rapper Math Hoffa Addresses The Difficulties He Has Faced On His Podcast And Much More!

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

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.

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New Allen Hughes Documentary “Dear Mama” on The Way

Allen Hughes, famed director of films “Menace II Society,” “Book of Eli,” and “Dead Presidents,” newest project “Dear Mama” will premiere in April.

Who is Allen Hughes?

Allen Hughes is a cultural contributor via film. His imprint is unerasable. Many of his movies are now cultural classics making one thing certain, his talent has made way for him. Allen Hughes often works alongside his brother. Together they make up the dynamic duo of the Hughes brothers. And The Hughes brothers easily make the top ten of any list celebrating Black excellence in the entertainment Industry. However, this is no surprise. Allen and his brother Albert began making movies in their adolescence. Over the years, they have worked tirelessly on perfecting their craft. And now Allen Hughes is again donning his directorial hat. He is taking on the subject of Tupac and Afeni Shakur in the upcoming release “Dear Mama.”

“Dear Mama:” An Interesting Development

Tupac and Allen Hughes

Image Source: Shutterstock; Courtesy of James Minchin

For some, Hughes’s acceptance of such a project is a surprise. It is no secret that Tupac and Hughes had a disagreement resulting from Tupac being let go from “Menace II Society.” Public record shows that the tensions between the two reached a fever pitch resulting in an altercation. As a result, Shakur took an assault and battery charge.

 

Despite the assault, Hughes never let that get in the way of giving Tupac the props he felt he deserved. Hughes has tried to keep It real, not sugarcoating his perception of the rap icon. At the behest of Tupac’s family and estate, he took on “Dear Mama,” pouring himself fully into producing a rich and informative documentary on the life and work of Tupac and Afeni Shakur.

More About “Dear Mama”

“Dear Mama” is written as five-part series that will begin on April 21 on the FX Network and run until May 12. According to FX, Hughes has crafted the feature to explore “linkages between mother and son, 1970s and 1990s, black activism and hip hop highlighting how much has and has not changed in the human rights struggle.” With his critical eye and moving film technique, Hughes aims to share an authentic narrative of Afeni and how her life and actions shaped Tupac into what he became. Cumulatively, as FX notes,

“it  [“Dear Mama”] explores how fate and love eternally linked Afeni and Tupac.”

On Tupac Shakur

Tupac Shakur

Image Source: New York Times

Tupac is an icon and a legend in the hip-hop community. And despite his often-conflicting public persona, he was intelligent and unbelievably talented. In addition, he was an activist, a giver, and a visionary whose life was cut too short. So we honor his contributions, celebrate his humanity, and continue to uplift the legacy he left. For those desiring to know a little more about Tupac and the first love of his life, Afeni, check out “Dear Mama” on the FX network and streaming on Hulu starting April 21.

Written by: Renae Richardson

 

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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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Will.I.Am Explains His Opinion on Tupac and Biggie

During a recent interview, will.i.am expressed his thoughts on the ever-present Tupac or Biggie debate. The grammy award winner’s response no doubt shocked many hardcore hip-hop heads. The Black Eyed Peas founder stated, “That kind of music doesn’t speak to my spirit.”  

Will.i.am answered while on an episode of Hip Hop Confessions. The host asked the rapper a question asked to every rap fan at least twice a week. Biggie Smalls or Tupac Shakur? Will.i.am intended no harm or ill will with his nevertheless controversial take. The rapper went on and clarified his previous statement. 

The Explanation

He elaborated, “I’m such a Tribe Called, De La Soul fan that I don’t like Tupac and Biggie.” He later went on to praise Pac and referred to him positively. However, he added that while Tupac’s music helped people, especially those in the projects, he found solace in other artists. He explained to the host that he found his escapism through the works of the groups above, A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul. To anyone familiar with his work, this should come as no shock. The happier and beat-driven work of the two groups find their way into will.i.am’s work. 

The Bigger Question

Will.i.am’s words no doubt shock many rap enthusiasts; however, his claims raise an interesting question. When discussing rap greats, are the influences of Tupac and Biggie overblown to the point of detriment for other notable artists? Throughout this section of the interview, will.i.am name drops Tribe, De La Soul, Eric B. and Rakim, KRS-One, and Boogie Down Productions. All are influential rappers in their own right, but are they respected enough? It is a compelling enough question to ask. Certainly, Tupac and Biggie receive the most attention in discussing classic and historical greats of the genre. Perhaps it is time to offer recognition to those artists who spoke to the projects like Pac and Big, such as the ones mentioned in the interview. 

It remains to be seen if the question raised by the interview will receive an answer soon. Much like the ever-present Biggie or Tupac question that started the whole discussion.

Ryan Fields

 

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‘So Many Tears’ By Tupac Shakur Reflects His Challenges As A Revolutionary

Music fans everywhere celebrated Tupac Shakur’s birthday on June 16 as a day of tribute to the late rapper. This year would have marked the 51st birthday of the beloved rapper. Although Pac was shot and killed by a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas in 1996, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy. The artist was only 25 at the time.

In the decades that have followed the untimely death of the late revolutionary, the impact of his radical ideas has continued to grow in new dimensions. He remains one of the most remembered members of his generation. Many people knew him personally and considered him a brother to them.

New generations of Hip Hop artists are taking things up a notch and leading Rap into new realms of expression. However, those who are passionate about Tupac Shakur’s music and activism still regard him as one of the greatest rappers of all time.

Tupac Shakur’s ‘So Many Tears’ Was Produced By Whom?

In honor of Tupac’s life, FMHipHop brings you an introspective favorite of Tupac’s titled “So Many Tears.” In which he shares some of his most intimate feelings. Furthermore, it was produced by Shock G, one of his collaborators at Digital Underground.

The two of them gave us numerous Hip Hop classics, which until today, still energize a party. “So Many Tears,” however, chose to take a different direction as Shakur sought to give the world a glimpse into his viewpoint.

Additionally, Shock G passed away in April of 2021. The world owes these two men a debt of gratitude for their dedication to Hip Hop and the services they have offered. Check out “So Many Tears” below.

Song Lyrics

Now I’m lost, and I’m weary, so many tears
I’m suicidal, so don’t stand near me
My every move is a calculated step
To bring me closer to embrace an early death
Now there’s nothin’ left
There was no mercy on the streets
I couldn’t rest, I’m barely standin’
About to go to pieces, screamin’ peace
And though my soul was deleted, I couldn’t see it
I had my mind full of demons tryin’ to break free

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Rare Footage of Tupac Shakur Has Been Released

Legends are like perpetual treasures, as the masses recently found out with the release of rare footage of Tupac Shakur.

The Footage of Shakur

Kaiso Aaron Allen, a former bodyguard for Tupac Shakur, provided the world with a rare treasure last week. He dug out a rare clip of the artist from his archives and posted it on social media. According to Allen, the footage was taken before Pac became the phenom the world knew. It provides fans with the rare opportunity to see him in the earlier days as an up-and-comer before the fame when he parlayed with Digital Underground. This footage served to underscore what many may or may not know about Pac’s start in the industry. A source goes on record,

Of course, 2Pac got his start as a roadie and background dancer for the Shock G-fronted Hip Hop group in the 1980s.

The Nature of the Shakur Footage: Invaluable

Allen had the privilege of not only working for Shakur but also legendary rapper Chuck D. What makes this share particularly special is the photo is being shared for free. Other depictions and memorabilia have come with a price tag. A source notes the original cover art from the album “Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory” was recently auctioned with a special NFT. According to another source, a hard drive owned by another of Tupac’s bodyguards was also recently auctioned. The worth of the hard drive carried a value up to $1.2 million. 

Shakur and Infinite Treasure: Status Legendary

The life of an artist is multifaceted but fans rarely see the person in totality. Somehow it never ceases to amaze the masses how there is still so much to uncover years later. This year marks 26 years since Pac’s passing in 1996. Yet, his star shines as bright as it did over two decades ago. One thing has become evident: the flame burns even brighter with the revelation of each piece held by those he encountered. That is the thing about legends; their talents and spirit are never extinguished.

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Written by Renae Richardson

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2Pac May Have Predicted His Own Death

It has been 26 years since Tupac Shakur’s death and it was not until shortly before his death that he actually predicted it.  In his song “If I Die Tonight” from Me Against The World, he rapsI hope they bury me and send me to my rest/Headlines readin ‘Murdered to death’/My last breath.” In his song “Only God Can Judge Me,” he also speaks about it. “Flatline/I hear the doctor standing over me screamin’ I can make it/Got a body full of bullet holes layin’ here naked.” A month before his death, he filmed the music video for his song “I Ain’t Mad At Cha.” The video sees Pac as an angel while rapping.

Smooth B Reflects On 2Pac

2pac’s longtime friend Smooth B spoke with Art of Dialogue about his time with the late rapper. He recalls that Pac looked at pictures of Smooth and his kids, saying that he is a great father.  Smooth B said that he would also but would not live long enough to be one. “N*gga, I’m telling you. I ain’t gonna live past 25,’” he tells Smooth B. He continued to reflect on it. “Smooth, listen. I already seen it,  I know how I’m gonna go out, n-gga.” “When that shit happened at 25, I was floored. I was fucking floored.”

The legendary rapper tragically passed away on September 13, 1996, after being fatally shot in Las Vegas, NV. He was 25 years old at the time.

Eminem Honors Tupac

At this year’s Superbowl Halftime Show, Eminem and Dr. Dre paid tribute to the late rapper with Dre playing the keys to his song “I Aint’ Mad at You!” As the keys were playing, Eminem got bowed down in honor of Tupac. Shortly before his performance, he went to Tupac’s “Wake Me When I’m Free Museum!” as a fan. He was even wearing Tupac merchandise in memory.

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Young 2Pac Poetry Book Up For Auction

Sotheby’s is auctioning off a poetry book 2Pac created when he was 11. It is likely to sell for up to $300,000.

This was not Tupac’s only poetry work. He had another one published in 1999, “The Rose that Grew From Concrete.” The poems he wrote have a theme of hope throughout all of them.

The Origins of the Poetry Book

This poetry book is the earliest known piece of writing that 2Pac did. According to the auction house, he gave copies of it to four Black Panther members convicted for their involvement in the deadly 1981 robbery of a Brink’s armored vehicle.

Tupac sent this booklet to his godfather, Jamal Joseph. He explained some of the histories of the poetry book to Sotheby’s.

“I kept it [the haiku booklet] for about a year and then got permission from a prison counselor to send a package home (to my wife Joyce) along with some other letters and legal documents.  The Guards had been searching cells after a gang stabbing and were messing up prisoners’ books, letters and photos. If you had money in your commissary account to pay for shipping and a decent counselor you could get a permission slip and take your stuff to the mail room to send home.”

The poetry consists of haikus that would later be expanded on in 2Pac’s music career. He signed the booklet with “Tupac Shakur, Future Freedom Fighter.”

Furthermore, the poetry book contains at least five haikus. The text appears in pencil. However, despite being so old, the paper is generally in good condition. There is some crinkling to edges & corners and light spots of finger soiling to the front and back pages. Therefore, it is in excellent condition.

In conclusion, the booklet is a part of Sotheby’s second hip-hop collection. The lot closes on Mar. 30.

Written by Justin Acosta

Twitter: @hahalacka