Meaning of What They Die For by 2Pac

In the world of hip-hop, there are certain songs that transcend time and become timeless classics. One such song is "What They Die For" by 2Pac. This powerful track not only showcases 2Pac's lyrical prowess, but also delves into the deeper themes of legacy and purpose. Within the verses of this song, there are several standout lyrics that further explore these themes and offer a unique perspective on the impact of artists like Biggie, 2Pac, and Pun.The overarching theme of "What They Die For" can be summarized as the question of what these iconic artists truly lived and died for. 2Pac opens the song with a reflection on the state of the hip-hop industry, comparing it to a time when competition was healthy and artists were more genuine in their craft. This sets the stage for the exploration of what it means to leave a lasting impact through music.One standout lyric in the song is "I think about Big this what he died for." Here, 2Pac acknowledges the legacy of Christopher Wallace, also known as Biggie Smalls. This lyric brings forth the idea that Biggie's death fueled a sense of purpose and determination in other artists. It suggests that his tragic end became a catalyst for change within the hip-hop community, inspiring others to use their platform to create meaningful art.Another notable lyric is "You know I feel as thou I'm cheated, because instead of me fulfilling my prophecy, I have to start one." This line, spoken by 2Pac himself in an interlude, speaks volumes about his own personal journey. It highlights the pressure and responsibility that artists like 2Pac carry to fulfill not only their own potential, but also the prophetic expectations placed upon them by fans and the industry. This lyric delves into the weighty nature of being a prominent figure in the music world and the sacrifices that come with it.In addition, the line "If we don't push it with the pen than fuck it, I just feel like we doing them an injustice" adds another layer to the song's theme. Fred, one of the artists featured in the song, expresses his commitment to using his artistic talent to honor the legacies of artists who have passed away. He believes that not pushing the boundaries of creativity and growth would be a failure to those who paved the way. This lyric is a call to action for artists to continue evolving their craft, pushing beyond their comfort zones, and using their voices to make a lasting impact.Ultimately, these standout lyrics within "What They Die For" all tie back to the overarching theme of the song - exploring the purpose and legacy of artists who have passed away. It prompts listeners and fellow artists to reflect on the impact these individuals had and to consider how they can honor their memory by creating meaningful art themselves.This song goes beyond the surface-level analysis of lyrics and dives deep into the essence of what it means to be an artist. It urges listeners to contemplate their own purpose and what they are willing to strive for in their artistic pursuits. "What They Die For" serves as both a tribute to the fallen legends of hip-hop and a reminder for current artists to push the boundaries of their creativity, making sure that the art they create serves a greater purpose.In conclusion, "What They Die For" by 2Pac is a thought-provoking and introspective song that delves into the themes of legacy, purpose, and artistic responsibility. Through standout lyrics and heartfelt reflections, the song encourages listeners to reflect on the impact they want to make with their own art. It serves as a reminder to honor the artists who have come before, carrying their legacies forward while also forging a unique path of their own.