Tupac Amaru Shakur was an artist in every sense of the word. Before his untimely death on September 13, 1996, Tupac managed to influence the masses through his life, music and poetry. Although he was primarily known for his music, Tupac was a gifted writer. In his poetry anthology, "The Rose That Grew From Concrete," the readers get an intimate perspective on the workings of Tupac's mind. He makes himself completely vulnerable through his work by addressing issues of poverty, racism, and unrequited love. This distinct ability presents an alternative side to both critics, fans and first-time readers of his work. Those familiar with his music can certainly agree that his life was full of excitement. Tupac's musical persona, for the most part, was based on a life filled with debauchery as demonstrated his lyrics. The difference of tone in his music can be exemplified by the song "All Eyez On Me,"" which was released shortly before his death. His music, at certain points, were filled with expletives and resentment which can be perceived by readers as combustible and angry. The tone in his poem "Sometimes I Cry"" was far more emotional and sensitive. The duality in both Tupac's writing and music represent the inner conflicts he battled throughout his life. Essentially, this unique characteristic gives one a more diversified view of both Tupac's life and work and what it truly embodied. .
Tupac was a revolutionary artist in more ways than one. His upbringing was by no means an idealistic situation for a young child to be in. There was drugs, violence, poverty, injustice and racism. These hardships really molded him into a unique personality with an interesting perspective on life. Tupac, through his music and poetry, really managed to turn his craft into an outlet by addressing the issues he faced as a young black man. He started a movement of conscious rap and influenced his colleagues to explore their horizons.