In the world of hip hop, Tupac Shakur's name is laid among the most infamous to have ever lay their hands on a microphone. Tupac lived a life that was covered in controversy and overshadowed in the gangster lifestyle. Simply, Tupac was the epitome of a gangster rapper. He lived by the gun and he died by the gun. Tupac was a "ladies man" despite being accused of abuse and promiscuity. However among all of these accusations, Tupac was considered a hip hop prophet by many. With words of encouragement for "ghetto bastards" and women that were left as single mothers, Tupac was a comforting voice, offering an empathetic message and speaking the truth that many knew all too well. .
There are many however that emphasize the negative virtues of his music. Aisha K. Finch for example asks,.
"If young Black America is going to be a cultural trendsetter on a global scale, why not use this to our advantage? Can you imagine what our influence could be if more groups like The Fugees or Tribe Called Quest created music and lyrics to inspire a new wave in Pan-African thinking? If hip-hop is destined to rule youth culture around the world, wouldn't you rather it be a reign that will unite and empower Black people everywhere (1)?" .
Finch argues that the message of gangster rappers is negative and if people want a positive view of hip hop and the world they should listen to rappers that don't condone messages of violence. She mentions the Fugees and Tribe Called Quest, two hip hop groups that are often shown as positive groups with positive meaning. However, these groups speak of drugs and living in the slums also. It is an argument that falls short. She argues that Tupac is a negative force in the world of Hip Hop because of his glorification of drug use and promiscuity. However Tribe Called Quest often speaks of promiscuity with songs such as Da Booty. Furthermore, The Fugees often speak of drug use and street culture in songs such as Ready or Not.