RZA’s Bold Take: Why He Believes 2Pac Was More “Dangerous” Than The Notorious B.I.G.
In the ever-ongoing debate over hip-hop’s greatest icons, Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA dropped a thought-provoking perspective back in October 2021 that continues to spark discussions among fans. During interviews—including one with podcaster Lex Fridman and clips shared on platforms like The Art of Dialogue—RZA revealed he views 2Pac (Tupac Shakur) as a more “dangerous” rapper than The Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls). The “danger” here isn’t about street credibility or violence in the literal sense, but about the revolutionary power of Pac’s lyrics and worldview.
Here are iconic portraits of RZA, the visionary leader of Wu-Tang Clan, whose insights carry weight as a contemporary of both legends:
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The Context of the Comparison
RZA, who produced tracks for Biggie (notably “Long Kiss Goodnight” on Life After Death) and admired both East and West Coast giants, broke down what made each special. He praised Biggie’s ability to connect through storytelling, charisma, and party anthems—music you could vibe to, celebrate with, and enjoy timelessly. “Notorious B.I.G.—we could party with him, to this day we’re still [partying with his music],” RZA said.
But when it came to Tupac, RZA highlighted a deeper, more disruptive force. Pac could evoke raw emotion—think heart-wrenching tracks like “Brenda’s Got a Baby” or “Dear Mama”—while simultaneously igniting rebellion and social awareness. “Pac had the power to infuse your emotional thought… but then he had the power to arouse the rebel in you,” RZA explained. He likened Tupac to Malcolm X, noting that Pac leaned into societal critique and calls for change: “Pac was more going into the Malcolm X of things and society fears that.”
The key line that went viral: “Actually, he was probably more dangerous than Big… Big communicated love but he wasn’t starting revolutions.”
RZA emphasized that Tupac’s blend of vulnerability and militancy made him a threat to the status quo—someone whose words could inspire real shifts in thought and action. In contrast, Biggie’s lyrical mastery was more about masterful flow, vivid narratives, and universal appeal without the same revolutionary edge.
Here are timeless images of 2Pac, capturing his intense, revolutionary energy and emotional depth:
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Biggie’s Enduring Legacy
No slight to Biggie—RZA made clear both were exceptional. The Brooklyn legend’s storytelling genius, smooth delivery, and larger-than-life persona made him the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Tracks like “Juicy,” “Hypnotize,” and “Big Poppa” remain party staples decades later.
Here are classic shots of The Notorious B.I.G., showcasing his charisma and undeniable presence:
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Why This Still Resonates in 2026
Years after the comments surfaced, clips and quotes resurface regularly on social media, fueling the East vs. West, Pac vs. Biggie debate that never truly dies. RZA’s take stands out because it shifts the focus from technical skill or sales to cultural impact—Tupac as the “warrior-poet” who challenged systems, while Biggie mastered the art of celebration and introspection.
RZA himself has deep ties to both: Wu-Tang’s Staten Island roots align more with New York’s sound, yet he respected Pac’s activism. In a world still grappling with inequality, Tupac’s revolutionary spirit feels as relevant as ever.
Here’s a powerful visual tying the legends together—RZA discussing the icons who shaped hip-hop forever:
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RZA Explains Why Tupac Was More Dangerous Than The Notorious …
RZA’s “dangerous” label isn’t about diminishing Biggie—it’s about recognizing Tupac’s unique power to unsettle, inspire change, and make society uncomfortable. In hip-hop’s pantheon, both remain untouchable, but RZA’s words remind us why Pac’s legacy carries that extra revolutionary fire.
