2pac albums at a glance
Tupac Shakur, who recorded under the moniker 2pac, is known for his prolific output as a rapper, but technically he only released four solo albums before his death. Here’s a quick primer:
2pac’s sample-heavy debut introduces listeners to a rapper still figuring out his flow, but clearly with plenty to say, from decrying police harassment (“Trapped”) to his reappropriation of a racial slur (“Words of Wisdom”).
His sophomore record finds a slightly more refined emcee, and also includes some of his most popular early hits, like “Keep Ya Head Up,” “Holler if Ya’ Hear Me” and the lothario anthem “I Get Around.”
Released while Shakur was in prison for sexual abuse, “Me Against the World” is arguably his best and most complete work. Rightfully known for the touching tribute “Dear Mama,” the sullen album features some of his most poignant verses (“Lord Knows,” “So Many Tears”).
His first release for Suge Knight’s Death Row Records, this slickly produced double album largely depicts a defiant Shakur, fresh out of prison and with much to get off his chest. It’s also Shakur’s best-selling album by a wide margin, with more than 10 million sold to date, thanks in large part to crossover singles like “How Do U Want It” and “California Love.”