Best Rappers of All Time – Billboard

Poet, actor, activist, and rapper Tupac Amaru Shakur was the ultimate polymath in the ’90s. Once a tag-along member in Digital Underground, ‘Pac’s larger-than-life demeanor became too big to shelter. after his scene-stealing verse on their 1991 hit “Same Song.” Pac’s duality as a solo artist was remarkable: One minute, he was endearing, scripting empathetic classics like “Dear Mama” and “Keep Your Head Up;” the other, he was explosive, lacing up his war boots, ready to ride on his enemies (“Hit ‘Em Up” and “Hail Mary”). He wasn’t necessarily the best lyricist, nor did he possess the craziest flow. But in fact, his limitations were what made the 25-year-old wunderkind one of the greatest MCs to touch God’s green earth: He knew of his shortcomings, but relied on his voice and motivational messaging to resonate and crack through the toughest gangstas. 

Signing to Death Row upon his 1995 prison release formed hip-hop’s strongest triumvirate, with him, Dr. Dre, and a burgeoning Snoop Dogg leading the way. His most potent project came when he released his double-disc album All Eyez On Me the next year. His fourth studio album had the makings of a bonafide classic – with incredible singles (“How Do You Want it,” “California Love,” & “I Ain’t Mad at Cha”) and superior production – and it reigned for eight weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Despite his gaudy wins, the mercurial MC had his fair share of battles, most notably with Brooklyn titan The Notorious B.I.G, which turned into heartbreaker for both coasts. Their lyrical skirmish ended in tragedy when ‘Pac was shot and killed in a Las Vegas shooting in ‘96, rocking the entire music world. Even after his death, Pac’s legacy pushed forward – with seven posthumous albums (including three Billboard 200-toppers), induction into the Rock Hall of Fame, and even a spot in the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry (for “Dear Mama”) – and despite his short life and career, Pac’s legacy continues to resonate today as much as any rapper – CL