2Pac – All Eyez On Me

• Category: Album

• Title: All Eyez On Me

• Artist: Tupac Shakur

• Features: B-Legit, Big Syke, C-Bo, CPO, D-Shot, Danny Boy, Daz Dillinger, Dr. Dre, E-40, George Clinton, Jewell, K-Ci & JoJo, Kurupt, Method Man, Michel'le, Mutah, Nate Dogg, Outlawz, Rappin' 4-Tay, Redman, Richie Rich, Roger Troutman, Snoop Dogg, Storm, Syke

• Released: February 13, 1996.

• Genres: G-Funk, Gangsta Rap, Hip-Hop, West Coast Hip-Hop

Album Background

Release Date and Label

All Eyez On Me was released on February 13, 1996, by Death Row Records and Interscope Records. This was Tupac Shakur’s fourth studio album and the first double-disc album in the history of hip-hop, marking a significant moment in his career.

Artist Context

At the time of this album’s creation, Tupac had recently been released from prison after serving time for a sexual assault conviction. Suge Knight, the CEO of Death Row Records, had bailed him out, and in return, Tupac signed with Death Row. All Eyez On Me was recorded shortly after his release and represents a period of intense creativity and prolific output for Tupac, who was eager to make his mark under the new label.

Concept and Inspiration

Themes and Messages

The album explores themes of fame, paranoia, and survival in the fast-paced, dangerous world of hip-hop. It also delves into Tupac’s experiences with legal troubles, the media, and his status as one of the most controversial figures in rap at the time. The title, All Eyez On Me, reflects the intense scrutiny Tupac felt from the public and the authorities.

Inspiration

The album was inspired by Tupac’s experiences in prison, his release, and his desire to reclaim his position at the top of the rap game. The influence of Death Row Records’ West Coast sound is evident, and the album also reflects Tupac’s determination to live life to the fullest, knowing that his time could be cut short at any moment.

Writing and Recording Process

Songwriting and Recording

The album was written and recorded in a remarkably short period, with much of it being completed in just two weeks. The urgency of the recording process is evident in the raw energy of the tracks. Tupac collaborated with a number of producers and fellow artists, resulting in a diverse yet cohesive project that blends different styles and influences.

Notable Collaborations

All Eyez On Me features numerous collaborations with high-profile artists and producers, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, and Method Man, among others. These collaborations added depth and variety to the album, making it a landmark project in 1990s hip-hop.

Production Details

Producers and Sound

• • Key Producers: The album’s production was handled by a team of top-tier producers, including Dr. Dre, Johnny “J”, Daz Dillinger, and DJ Quik.
  • Sound and Musical Style: The album features a mix of West Coast G-funk, gangsta rap, and more introspective tracks. The production is characterized by its heavy bass lines, funky grooves, and polished beats, creating a sound that was both commercially appealing and true to Tupac’s artistic vision.

Track-by-Track Analysis

• Track Listing:

  • Disc 1:
    1. “Ambitionz Az a Ridah”
    2. “All Bout U” (featuring Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, and others)
    3. “Skandalouz” (featuring Nate Dogg)
    4. “Got My Mind Made Up” (featuring Daz Dillinger, Method Man, Redman)
    5. “How Do U Want It” (featuring K-Ci & JoJo)
    6. “2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted” (featuring Snoop Dogg)
    7. “No More Pain”
    8. “Heartz of Men”
    9. “Life Goes On”
    10. “Only God Can Judge Me” (featuring Rappin’ 4-Tay)
    11. “Tradin’ War Stories” (featuring Outlawz, C-Bo)
    12. “California Love (Remix)” (featuring Dr. Dre, Roger Troutman)
    13. “I Ain’t Mad at Cha” (featuring Danny Boy)
    14. “What’z Ya Phone #”
  • Disc 2:
    1. “Can’t C Me” (featuring George Clinton)
    2. “Shorty Wanna Be a Thug”
    3. “Holla at Me”
    4. “Wonda Why They Call U Bitch”
    5. “When We Ride” (featuring Outlawz)
    6. “Thug Passion” (featuring Outlawz, Jewell, Storm)
    7. “Picture Me Rollin'” (featuring Danny Boy, Syke, CPO)
    8. “Check Out Time” (featuring Kurupt, Big Syke)
    9. “Ratha Be Ya Nigga” (featuring Richie Rich)
    10. “All Eyez on Me” (featuring Big Syke)
    11. “Run tha Streetz” (featuring Michel’le, Mutah, Storm)
    12. “Ain’t Hard 2 Find” (featuring E-40, B-Legit, D-Shot, C-Bo, Richie Rich)
    13. “Heaven Ain’t Hard 2 Find”

• Key Tracks:

  • “California Love (Remix)”: Featuring Dr. Dre and Roger Troutman, this track became one of Tupac’s most iconic songs. It’s an anthem of West Coast hip-hop and a celebration of California’s culture.
  • “Ambitionz Az a Ridah”: The album’s opening track, known for its aggressive lyrics and haunting beat, perfectly sets the tone for the rest of the album.
  • “I Ain’t Mad at Cha”: A reflective track that addresses changes in relationships and life, showcasing Tupac’s ability to blend emotional depth with streetwise storytelling.
  • “2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted”: A collaboration with Snoop Dogg that stands out for its energy and swagger, representing the unity of West Coast rap royalty.

Awards and Nominations

Awards and Nominations

All Eyez On Me received critical acclaim and multiple awards nominations, including a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album. It is often cited as one of the greatest and most influential rap albums of all time.

Sales and Charts

• • Billboard 200: The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart.
  • RIAA Certification: All Eyez On Me was certified Diamond by the RIAA, signifying over 10 million units sold in the United States alone.

Impact and Legacy

Influence and Long-term Impact

All Eyez On Me is a landmark album in hip-hop history. It solidified Tupac’s status as a rap icon and influenced countless artists who followed in his footsteps. The album’s commercial success demonstrated the potential for hip-hop albums to achieve mainstream appeal while maintaining artistic integrity. Its themes of fame, power, and survival continue to resonate in the hip-hop community, making it a timeless piece of art.

Conclusion

Summary

All Eyez On Me is a monumental achievement in Tupac’s career and in the history of hip-hop. It captures the essence of Tupac as an artist and a person, showcasing his versatility, charisma, and profound ability to connect with listeners.

Final Thoughts

The album stands as a testament to Tupac’s genius and his impact on music and culture. It’s a reflection of his life, struggles, and the world around him, making it an enduring classic that continues to inspire and influence generations of artists and fans.