Shakur was born in New York City to parents who were both political activists and Black Panther Party members. Raised by his mother, he relocated to Baltimore in 1984 and to the San Francisco Bay Area in 1988. With the release of his debut album 2Pacalypse Now in 1991, he became a central figure in West Coast hip-hop for his conscious rap lyrics. Shakur achieved further critical and commercial success with his follow-up albums Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z... (1993) and Me Against the World (1995). His Diamond certified album All Eyez on Me (1996), the first double-length album in hip-hop history, abandoned his introspective lyrics for volatile gangsta rap. In addition to his music career, Shakur also found considerable success as an actor, with his starring roles in Juice (1992), Poetic Justice (1993), Above the Rim (1994), Bullet (1996), Gridlock'd (1997), and Gang Related (1997).
During the later part of his career, Shakur was shot five times in the lobby of a New York recording studio and experienced legal troubles, including incarceration. In 1995, Shakur served eight months in prison on sexual abuse charges, but was released pending an appeal of his conviction. Following his release, he signed to Marion "Suge" Knight's label Death Row Records and became heavily involved in the growing East CoastβWest Coast hip hop rivalry. On September 7, 1996, Shakur was shot four times by an unidentified assailant in a drive-by shooting in Las Vegas; he died six days later. Following his murder, Shakur's friend-turned-rival, the Notorious B.I.G., was at first considered a suspect due to their public feud, but was also murdered in another drive-by shooting six months later in March 1997 while visiting Los Angeles.
Five more albums have been released since Shakur's death, all of which have been certified Platinum in the United States. In 2002, Shakur was inducted into the Hip-Hop Hall of Fame. In 2017, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. Rolling Stone magazine ranked Shakur among the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time.
Shakur was born on June 16, 1971, in the East Harlem section of Manhattan in New York City. While born Lesane Parish Crooks, at age one he was renamed Tupac Amaru Shakur. He was named after TΓΊpac Amaru II, the descendant of the last Incan ruler, TΓΊpac Amaru, who was executed in Peru in 1781 after his failed revolt against Spanish rule. Shakur's mother explained, "I wanted him to have the name of revolutionary, indigenous people in the world. I wanted him to know he was part of a world culture and not just from a neighborhood."
Shakur had an older stepbrother, Mopreme "Komani" Shakur, and a half-sister, Sekyiwa Shakur, two years his junior.
How You Want It
2Pac Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
How does it feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
How do you want it? (yeah)
How do you feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
Love the way you activate your hips and push your ass out
Got a nigga wantin' it so bad I'm 'bout to pass out
Wanna dig you and I can't even lie about it
Baby, just alleviate your clothes, time to fly up out it
Catch you at a club, oh, shit you got me fiendin'
Body talkin' shit to me but I can't comprehend the meaning
Now if you wanna roll with me, then here's your chance
Doin' eighty on the freeway, police, catch me if you can
Forgive me, I'm a rider, still, I'm just a simple man
All I want is money, fuck the fame, I'm a simple man
Mr. International, player with the passport
Just like Aladdin, bitch, get you anything you ask for
It's either him or me, champagne, Hennessy
A favorite of my homies when we floss on our enemies
Witness as we creep to a low speed, peep what a ho need
Puff some mo' weed, funk, ya don't need
Approachin' hoochies with a passion, been a long day
But I've been driven by attraction in a strong way
Your body is bangin', baby, I love it when you flaunt it
Time to give it to daddy, nigga, now tell me how you want it
(Tell me how you want it)
How do you want it?
How does it feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
How do you want it? (yeah)
How do you feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
I'm livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
Tell me is it cool to fuck?
Did you think I come to talk? Am I a fool or what?
Positions on the floor, it's like erotic
Ironic 'cause I'm somewhat psychotic
I'm hittin' switches on bitches like I been fixed with hydraulics
Up and down like a roller coaster
I'm up inside ya, I ain't quittin' 'til the show is over
'Cause I'ma rider in and out just like a robbery
I'll probably be a freak and let you get on top of me
Get her rockin' knees
Nights full of AlizΓ©, a livin' legend
You ain't heard about, these niggas play these Cali days
C. Delores Tucker, you's a motherfucker
Instead of tryin' to help a nigga, you destroy a brother
Worse than the others, Bill Clinton, Mr. Bob Dole
You're too old to understand the way the game's told
You're lame, so I gotta hit you with the hot facts
Once I'm released, I'm makin' millions, niggas top that
They wanna censor me, they'd rather see me in a cell
Livin' in hell, only a few of us'll live to tell
Now everybody talkin 'bout us, I could give a fuck
Like we the first ones to bomb and cuss
Nigga, tell me how you want it
How do you want it? (tell me)
How does it feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
How do you want it? (yeah)
How do you feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
I'm livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
Raised as a youth, tell the truth, I got the scoop
On how to get a bulletproof, lickin' shots off on the roof
Before I was a teenager, mobile phone, SkyPager
Gang rules, I'm livin' major, my adversaries
Is lookin' worried, they paranoid of gettin' buried
One of us gon' see the cemetery
My only hope is survive, if I was to stay alive
Gettin' high, see the demons in my eyes before I die
I wanna live my life and ball, make a couple million
And then I'm chillin', fade 'em all
These taxes got me crossed up and people tryin' to sue me
Media is in my business and they actin' like they know me (hahaha)
But I'ma mash out and peel out
I'm with a clique that's quick to whip that fuckin' steel out
Yeah, nigga it's some new shit, so better get up on it
When you see me, tell a nigga how you want it
How do you want it?
How do you want it?
How does it feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
How do you want it? (yeah)
How do you feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
How do you want it?
How does it feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
(How you want it?) How do you want it?
How do you feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game (yeah, my nigga, Johnny J)
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real (yeah)
How do you want it?
How does it feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
How do you want it? (tell me)
How do you feel? (girl, I-I-I-I)
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
How do you want it?
How do you feel?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
"How You Want It" is a song by Tupac featuring K-Ci and JoJo of Jodeci. The lyrics are about Tupac's experiences as a black man in the fast-paced world of the music industry, and his desire for money, power, and sexual pleasure. The first two lines of the song are repeated throughout, asking the listener how they want to feel and how they want to live. Tupac has always been known for his unapologetic and raw lyrics, and this song is no exception.
The opening line "How do you want it?" is repeated in the hook, establishing the theme of the song. Tupac then delves into his life and his perspective as a black man in the music industry. He talks about his desire for money and power, but also his need for love and physical pleasure. The line "Love the way you activate your hips and push your ass out" is a clear reference to sexual desire.
Tupac then talks about his experiences with women and how he interacts with them. He speaks about clubbing and drugs, giving a glimpse into his lifestyle. The song also touches on political topics, such as Bill Clinton and Bob Dole. Tupac speaks of censorship and the media, and how he is being attacked by the media. The final verse is about Tupac's desire to make it in the music industry, and how he will do what he needs to do to succeed.
Overall, "How You Want It" is a reflection of Tupac's life and his struggle to succeed. It's a song about power, money, sex, and love, with a raw and unapologetic delivery.
Line by Line Meaning
How do you want it?
What are your desires and preferences?
How does it feel?
What is the emotional experience like?
Comin' up as a nigga in the cash game
Navigating the challenges and opportunities of making money as a black man
Livin' in the fast lane, ah, for real
Engaging in a high-paced, intense lifestyle
Love the way you activate your hips and push your ass out
I'm attracted to your sensual movements and confidence
Got a nigga wantin' it so bad I'm 'bout to pass out
You have me craving you intensely to the point of exhaustion
Wanna dig you and I can't even lie about it
I desire you and can't deny my feelings
Baby, just alleviate your clothes, time to fly up out it
Let go of your inhibitions and experience freedom
Catch you at a club, oh, shit you got me fiendin'
I'm addicted to your presence when I see you at the club
Body talkin' shit to me but I can't comprehend the meaning
Your body language is enticing, but I struggle to fully understand its message
Now if you wanna roll with me, then here's your chance
If you're interested in being with me, now is the opportunity
Doin' eighty on the freeway, police, catch me if you can
I'm speeding on the freeway, challenging the police to catch me
Forgive me, I'm a rider, still, I'm just a simple man
Please excuse my rebellious nature, I'm just a straightforward person
All I want is money, fuck the fame, I'm a simple man
I prioritize wealth over fame, I prefer a straightforward life
Mr. International, player with the passport
I'm well-traveled and have connections worldwide
Just like Aladdin, bitch, get you anything you ask for
Similar to Aladdin, I can fulfill your every desire
It's either him or me, champagne, Hennessy
Choose between me or another man, let's celebrate with expensive drinks
A favorite of my homies when we floss on our enemies
When we show off our success to those who resent us, my friends appreciate it
Witness as we creep to a low speed, peep what a ho need
Observe as we approach slowly, recognizing a woman's desires
Puff some mo' weed, funk, ya don't need
Smoke more marijuana, forget about your troubles
Approachin' hoochies with a passion, been a long day
Engaging with promiscuous women enthusiastically after a tiring day
But I've been driven by attraction in a strong way
My desire for them has been a powerful motivator
Your body is bangin', baby, I love it when you flaunt it
You have an attractive physique, and I enjoy when you proudly display it
Time to give it to daddy, nigga, now tell me how you want it
Now it's time to engage in sexual activity, so let me know your preferences
Tell me is it cool to fuck?
Is it acceptable for us to engage in sexual intercourse?
Did you think I come to talk? Am I a fool or what?
Did you assume I only wanted conversation? Am I naive?
Positions on the floor, it's like erotic
Exploring various sexual positions that are highly arousing
I'm hittin' switches on bitches like I been fixed with hydraulics
I'm having sexual encounters with multiple women, metaphorically comparing it to custom car modifications
Up and down like a roller coaster
Our sexual activity is vigorous and dynamic
I'm up inside ya, I ain't quittin' 'til the show is over
I'm penetrating you and won't stop until we've both reached satisfaction
'Cause I'ma rider in and out just like a robbery
I'm skilled at entering and exiting situations swiftly, like a robbery
I'll probably be a freak and let you get on top of me
I'll most likely engage in unconventional sexual practices and allow you to take control
Get her rockin' knees
Stimulating her sexually to the point where her knees shake
Nights full of AlizΓ©, a livin' legend
Enjoying nights filled with AlizΓ© liqueur, I'm known as a legendary figure
You ain't heard about, these niggas play these Cali days
You may not be aware of the lifestyle these Californian men indulge in
C. Delores Tucker, you's a motherfucker
C. Delores Tucker, you're a despicable person
Instead of tryin' to help a nigga, you destroy a brother
Rather than supporting a black man, you harm your own community
Worse than the others, Bill Clinton, Mr. Bob Dole
More detrimental than other politicians, such as Bill Clinton and Mr. Bob Dole
You're too old to understand the way the game's told
Your age prevents you from comprehending the truth about this lifestyle
You're lame, so I gotta hit you with the hot facts
You're unimpressive, so I need to educate you with the harsh reality
Once I'm released, I'm makin' millions, niggas top that
When I regain my freedom, I'll achieve great financial success, surpassing others
They wanna censor me, they'd rather see me in a cell
They attempt to suppress my voice, preferring me to be imprisoned
Livin' in hell, only a few of us'll live to tell
Existing in a state of torment, only a handful of us will survive long enough to share our stories
Now everybody talkin 'bout us, I could give a fuck
People are discussing us, but I don't care about their opinions
Like we the first ones to bomb and cuss
As if we're the first individuals to express anger and use profanity
Nigga, tell me how you want it
My friend, let me know your desires and preferences
Raised as a youth, tell the truth, I got the scoop
Growing up, being honest, I gained insider knowledge
On how to get a bulletproof, lickin' shots off on the roof
Learning how to obtain body armor and shoot from elevated positions
Before I was a teenager, mobile phone, SkyPager
Even before reaching adolescence, I had access to a mobile phone and SkyPager
Gang rules, I'm livin' major, my adversaries
Following the code of the streets, I'm living a prominent lifestyle despite facing opposition
Is lookin' worried, they paranoid of gettin' buried
My enemies appear concerned, fearing for their lives
One of us gon' see the cemetery
Either my enemies or I will end up dead and buried
My only hope is survive, if I was to stay alive
My ultimate goal is to survive and continue living
Gettin' high, see the demons in my eyes before I die
Using drugs, I can see the darkness within me before I meet my demise
I wanna live my life and ball, make a couple million
I desire to enjoy life to the fullest and accumulate a significant amount of wealth
And then I'm chillin', fade 'em all
After achieving my goals, I will relax and prove my doubters wrong
These taxes got me crossed up and people tryin' to sue me
Dealing with high taxes and individuals attempting to take legal action against me
Media is in my business and they actin' like they know me
The media is intruding on my private life, pretending to have intimate knowledge about me
But I'ma mash out and peel out
However, I will assert myself and quickly leave
I'm with a clique that's quick to whip that fuckin' steel out
I'm associated with a group that is quick to pull out firearms
Yeah, nigga it's some new shit, so better get up on it
Yes, my friend, these are innovative concepts, so you should familiarize yourself with them
When you see me, tell a nigga how you want it
When you encounter me, inform me of your desires and preferences
Lyrics Β© Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: Johnny Lee Jackson, Tupac Amaru Shakur, Bruce Fisher, Quincy D. Jones, Leon Ware, Stanley J. Richardson
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Address Da Fact
This man wrote this whole song, chorus in all, in 5 minutes. To say he wasn't a lyrical genius is lies. 2pac the π
Address Da Fact
@Ξ»Ξ΅Ο ΞΊΟΟ Smh
Grimes Grindelwald
Truth
Ashley Mccully
All eyes on him still
Cashawnn Allred
That Part
creepy3
no shit? wow
nac990
Tupac had a insane flow and he was ahead of his time
Sugar ray
I think Biggies flow was better but 2pac rapped about real life shit.
nac990
@Sugar ray yeah yeah
Charles Dean
π―π―π―π―π―π²βΏοΈπ€β