Throughout his career, Tupac Shakur was signed to several major record labels, with Death Row Records being his most notable affiliation. I'll break down his record label history chronologically.

Tupac initially signed with Interscope Records in 1991 as a member of the group Digital Underground. This marked his first major label contract and led to the release of his debut solo album "2Pacalypse Now."

In 1995, while serving time in prison, Tupac signed with Death Row Records in a deal orchestrated by Suge Knight. This was perhaps his most famous label association, resulting in the release of the iconic album "All Eyez on Me" and several other successful projects. Death Row Records was distributed through Interscope, maintaining his connection with his original label.

Before Death Row, Tupac also worked with TNT Records and Interscope Records independently. His early work, including his time with Digital Underground, was released through Tommy Boy Records, though he wasn't directly signed to them as a solo artist.

Here's a complete timeline of Tupac's major label affiliations:

1991-1995: Interscope Records
1995-1996: Death Row Records/Interscope Records
Earlier associations: TNT Records, Tommy Boy Records (through Digital Underground)

After his death in 1996, his unreleased music has been managed by his estate through various labels, including Amaru Entertainment, which was founded by his mother, Afeni Shakur.

The Death Row Records period, though brief (1995-1996), was arguably Tupac's most commercially successful era, producing multiple platinum records and some of his most recognized work. This label association ended only with his tragic death in September 1996.

These label relationships played a crucial role in shaping Tupac's career and helping establish him as one of hip-hop's most influential artists. His work continues to be distributed through various labels today, with his estate carefully managing his musical legacy.

Previous Articles