The day Maya Angelou Made Tupac Cry

"The Day Maya Angelou Made Tupac Cry: What We Can Learn from That Moment"

Maya Angelou was one of the most influential poets and activists of our time. Her words have inspired millions, and her wisdom has touched the lives of people all over the world. But there is one moment in her life that stands out above all others: the day she made Tupac cry.

Tupac Shakur was one of the biggest names in hip-hop, known for his controversial lyrics and his powerful voice. He was a force to be reckoned with, both on the mic and in his personal life. But when he met Maya Angelou, everything changed.

In a 1995 interview, Tupac talked about the moment he met Angelou and how her words touched him deeply. "She was one of the few people who could actually make me cry," he said. "She had a way of speaking that just touched my soul."

So what was it that Maya Angelou said that made such a lasting impact on Tupac? The answer is simple: she spoke the truth, when nobody else would. And the crazy thing was, she didn’t even know who Tupac was at the time. She just saw a young black man who was angry and lashing out, and needed care and attention.

Angelou's words were a reminder that no matter how successful or famous we become, we are all still human. We all have fears, doubts, and insecurities, and it's okay to admit them. Tupac may have been a tough guy on the outside, but Angelou's words showed him that it was okay to be vulnerable.

What can we learn from this moment between Maya Angelou and Tupac? First and foremost, we can learn the power of speaking the truth. When we are honest with ourselves and others, we create a sense of connection and understanding that is hard to achieve otherwise.

Second, we can learn the importance of vulnerability. As leaders, it's easy to get caught up in the image we want to project to the world. But when we show our true selves, we become more relatable and human.

Finally, we can learn the power of words. Maya Angelou's words had a profound impact on Tupac, and they have inspired millions of others. When we choose our words carefully, we have the ability to touch people's hearts and change the world.

In conclusion, the day Maya Angelou made Tupac cry was a powerful moment that taught us all valuable lessons about the power of truth, vulnerability, and words. Whether we are leaders, activists, or just everyday people, we can all benefit from the wisdom of Maya Angelou and the impact she had on Tupac. Let's continue to be inspired by her words and strive to make a positive impact in our own lives and in the world.

Here is a link to that wonder interview: Maya Angelou’s Conversation with Tupac.

King vs The King-Maker

To be king or not to be king…

That is the question.

While watching the snippets of Dr Dre being honored for his contributions to hip hop and even having an Award named after him.

I couldn’t help but notice that there is indeed more power, prestige and longevity in being the king-maker instead of the king.

Indeed, Heavy is the head that wears the crown.

Tupac was king… and he is dead.

Biggie was king of New York.

And Puffy danced on his grave all the way to the bank.

Michael Jackson was king… and he is dead.

Meanwhile, Quincy Jones will be turning 90 depending on when you read this.

Max Martin, has remained relatively unknown while the boy bands he created that were wildly successful like the Backstreet Boys and Nsyc have seen their reign come and go.

My point is, there comes a point where you must choose what path you wish to take.

There is only one spot for a king.

But there is plenty of room, opportunity and demand for those who wish to help others be come king.

WHAT MAKES AN MC GREAT?

I recently had a great conversation with a young up and coming emcee. While talking about our latest projects and having a brief listening session I pointed out some things I noticed in his rhyme schematics, delivery and flow that I have always consciously or subconsciously analyzed in the rappers I have liked or disliked. 

Which got me thinking. Why do we like certain emcees more than others? What makes one rap verse better than another? And what makes an emcee great?

I believe there are 5 things that make an emcee stand out and set them a part from the rest of the crowd.

1. Their ability to tell stories 

Usually the story is their own but even when told through the eyes of someone else they have an ability to paint vivid pictures of details and emotions that translate and ring true. This is something I believe Lecrae is doing so well at right now. Christian rappers have often been dull. Preaching at you instead of to you. In essence, Bible-Bashing. In my eyes what Lecrae has done is elevate Christian hip hop by telling you his story. And his story is an interesting one. Most people have interesting stories but how you tell them makes a huge difference.

If you think you don't have an interesting story then learn to tell other peoples stories.  

2. Their ability to make it rhyme 

It's one thing to be able to tell a story. It's another thing to make that story rhyme. Rhyme has that sticky ability to make something new sound true and stick to you like glue. That's why we Love Dr. Seuss.

Legend has it, that when rapper Rakim use to write his rhymes he would draw a line down the middle of the page. And when he got to the line he would try to make the words rhyme. This helped him perfect his internal rhyme style that made him famous. And also added a new flavour to Hip Hop.

3. Their dedication to the craft

Continuously practicing what they do makes them formidable even on their worst days.

When Tupac was in the zone he would write 3 songs a day. Even writing while he was on the toilet. Jay Z use to read a rhyming dictionary every night. 

4. Their desire to connect

Most have a strong desire to connect with their audience which make them really good at breaking down barriers to your heart and mind. Making you feel a personal connection, even though you may have never met them in real life. 

I have never met Eminem, but through his music I know that his daughter (who he loves dearly) her name is Hailie, His Ex-wife's name is Kim and they have a love/hate relationship. He has battled drug addiction and can be painfully insecure. So basically, he is a human being trying to make the most out of life and therefore we can connect with his tragedies and triumphs.  

5. Their boldness to constantly ship 

"Great artists ship." it may not be perfect but at least it was put out there for the world to see. Instead of fading into obscurity.

Question: Who are some of your favourite Emcees? Leave a comment in the section below