Dre also contributes another surefire single in 'California Love' (which, unfortunately, is present only as a remix, not the original hit version). On the plus side, this is easily the best production he's ever had on record, handled mostly by Johnny J (notably on the smash 'How Do U Want It') and Dat Nigga Daz Dr. In that sense, it's an accurate depiction of what made him such a volatile and compelling personality, despite some undeniable filler.

All Eyez on Me is 2Pac the thug icon in all his brazen excess, throwing off all self-control and letting it all hang out - even if some of it would have been better kept to himself. Sure, there are a few reflective numbers and dead-homiez tributes, but they're much more romanticized this time around.

But more than that, it's also an unabashed embrace of the gangsta lifestyle, backing off the sober self-recognition of Me Against the World. With all the controversy surrounding him, 2Pac seemingly wanted to throw down a monumental epic whose sheer scope would make it an achievement of itself.

Whatever the case, 2Pac re-emerged hardened and hungry with All Eyez on Me, the first double-disc album of original material in hip-hop history. Maybe it was his time in prison, or maybe it was simply his signing with Suge Knight's Death Row label. Purchase and download this album in a wide variety of formats depending on your needs.

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