This fierce rivalry revolved around the “East Coast” versus “West Coast” hip hop factions, with two prominent figures at the forefront: Christopher “Biggie Smalls” Wallace from New York and Tupac Shakur from Los Angeles.
Through their music, both artists engaged in a series of “diss tracks,” publicly attacking each other in a highly charged manner. Additionally, both had past criminal records and had served time in jail, which added to the intensity of their feud.
In late 1996, the rivalry took a tragic turn, extending beyond the realm of music and into the real world.
In separate events, both Tupac Shakur and Biggie Smalls were brutally murdered. Biggie Smalls was killed on March 9, 1997, just six months after Tupac Shakur was gunned down in Las Vegas.
Their deaths left a profound impact on the hip-hop community and the music industry as a whole.
But friends, family, and fans still hope for justice for the rap rivals’ untimely deaths.
Tupac’s Legacy
Tupac Shakur, born Lesane Parish Crooks, left an indelible mark on the music industry during his brief but impactful career.