Online Reporter
LOS ANGELES. − A political icon and voice of the people, Tupac Amaru Shakur was born in prison on June 16th, 1971, as the son of an active Black Panther party member.
Within his short 26 years of life, he would star in seven films, write hundreds of poems, create 11 studio albums, 510 songs, and sell over 75 million records worldwide.
We have chosen him as the greatest hip-hop artist of all time.
Despite nearly three decades since Tupac’s death, he is seen on T-shirts, playlists, and posters worldwide, and remains incredibly influential.
He was the first rapper to have two number one albums in the same year, the first rapper to be inducted into the rock and roll hall of fame, and the first rapper to go diamond with a double album.
We broke down the categories for the best hiphop artist of all time into influence, albums, storytelling, charisma and lyricism.
Find out below why we think Tupac is the greatest within these categories, better than Kendrick, Jay-Z and Biggie…
Tupac vs Kendrick Lamar
This is a tough one, as Kendrick Lamar is the only rapper to win a Pulitzer prize, with arguably the best album of all time with To Pimp a Butterfly (which is actually dedicated to Tupac, initially named Tu Pimp A Caterpillar or Tu.P.A.C). Kendrick Lamar is a great lyricist, with classic albums, and social activism, he is definitely in the top 2 of all time. Why not 1? Name an iconic Kendrick bar, name a way he has changed the world, do you see people wearing Kendrick Lamar t-shirts everywhere?
I believe that both artists are equal in discography and ability, and it just comes down to impact, which Tupac easily succeeds further in. Kendrick Lamar is the Tupac of our generation, and certainly has the ability to outshine his predecessor, but so far, Tupac is still ahead.
Tupac vs Jay Z
Jay-Z is widely recognised as one of the greatest rappers of all time. With 14 number 1 albums.
Regardless, much of Jay’s music is rather forgettable. Don’t get me wrong, Jay has some classic hits, but for the most part, his music doesn’t really stand the test of time.
To me, Jay is more of a commercial pop hip-hop artist. There is also debate around the authenticity of Jay-Z and his supposed drug dealer persona.
No question he is a great hiphop artist and businessman, but he does not have the impact and authenticity that Tupac does.
Tupac vs Biggie
Tupac’s ability to convey vulnerability, anger, joy, and sorrow allowed him to connect deeply with his audience. This emotional range is something that many feel Biggie, despite his exceptional talent, did not fully explore.
Tupac’s music often served as a powerful vehicle for social and political commentary on poverty, racism, and gender inequality. While Biggie’s lyrics often focused on the hardships of street life and personal struggles, they lacked the social consciousness that characterized much of Tupac’s work.
Pac’s willingness to share his vulnerabilities and personal struggles made his music cathartic and relatable to millions. Biggie’s persona, though charismatic and engaging, often centred on the lifestyle of the gangster and the hustler, making his narrative less relatable.
Tupac’s poetic approach to rap inspired and provoke thought. Biggie, known for his smooth flow and clever wordplay, excelled in storytelling but didn’t match Tupac’s lyrical and poetic complexity
Tupac also outshines Biggie in his volume, with several albums released during his life and posthumously.
His music covered a broad spectrum of themes, showcasing his versatility and relentless work ethic. Biggie, with a smaller discography, left a significant but less extensive body of work.
So, at Rap.Council, we have chosen Tupac as the greatest hiphop artist of all time, to date. − Rap Council
Londile Moyo