TUPAC SHAKUR

by Vibe Magazine--Eds. of ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 27, 1997

Shakur, who died in a drive-by shooting at the age of 25, was one of rap music's most controversial and influential performers, as evidenced by this collection of heavily illustrated articles from VIBE magazine, including interviews, features on the singer, and reports on the increasingly heated conflicts within rap music that may, it has been suggested, have played a part in Shakur's death. Those unfamiliar with Shakur's hard life and his gengsta rap, which celebrated violent defiance of a society viewed as largely racist and lethal, will probably feel somewhat at sea here--these are pieces written for knowledgeable fans of hip-hop and rap. However, the vigor and frankness of some of these articles by young critics and journalists does offer a fascinating view of a vibrant and deeply disturbing part of popular culture. Shakur's fans will find the book a useful overview of a short, intensely controversial, and ultimately self-destructive life and career.

Pub Date: Aug. 27, 1997

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 144

Publisher: Crown

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 15, 1997

Categories: NONFICTION