Meek Mill and Rick Ross Deliver The Official “Tupac Back” Music Video
The long-awaited music video for Meek Mill and Rick Ross’ Self Made Vol. 1 single, “Tupac Back,” is finally here. Released today, the visuals bring the song’s powerful tribute to life. Therefore, capturing the raw energy and spirit of Tupac Shakur. The video is directed by Mr. Boomtown. It was filmed on Grape Street in Watts, Los Angeles, and includes key references to Tupac’s music, lifestyle, and legacy.
With the video dropping just one day after what would have been Tupac’s 40th birthday, its timing makes the homage even more significant. The Maybach Music Group (MMG) duo’s decision to shoot in Los Angeles—a city forever linked to Tupac—adds an extra layer of authenticity to their tribute.
Capturing the Spirit of Tupac
From the moment the video starts, “Tupac Back” delivers the energy and defiance that made Tupac a legend. The video features Rick Ross sitting in the back of his Maybach. That’s a nod to the opulence and influence he has cultivated as MMG’s leader. Meanwhile, Meek Mill is shown “Stranded on Death Row,” a reference to The Chronic song of the same name. So, it speaks to the struggles Tupac faced during his time on Death Row Records.
Beyond its lyrical and visual references, the video aims to preserve Tupac’s legacy by keeping his name alive in hip-hop’s new generation. In exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, director Mr. Boomtown explains to MTV, “It’s a video that’s paying homage to Tupac, man. It’s keeping it hood but at the same time, we’re going to gloss it up a little bit. We’ll do a lot of warehouse scenes, crazy scenes.”
The video is filled with gritty urban landscapes, prison imagery, and street anthems. Therefore, making it a fitting tribute to one of hip-hop’s most revered figures.
Watts, Los Angeles: A Meaningful Filming Location
Choosing Watts, Los Angeles as the setting for the “Tupac Back” video was a deliberate move. Watts is one of the most historically significant areas in West Coast hip-hop, and the community has long carried the essence of resistance and strength—qualities Tupac embodied throughout his career.
Parts of the video were also shot down the street from where Tupac lived before his tragic death in 1996. These locations add weight to the tribute, reinforcing the fact that Tupac’s influence remains deeply rooted in Los Angeles culture.
West Coast artists YC, P2TheLA, Glasses Malone, and Menace make cameo appearances, further connecting the video to L.A.’s hip-hop scene. Their presence not only cements the authenticity of the tribute but also bridges the gap between past and present West Coast rap.
The Creation of “Tupac Back”
While “Tupac Back” has become a defining anthem for MMG, it started with a simple studio session between Rick Ross and Meek Mill. According to Meek, “Ross had the hook already. He said he was inspired by Tupac when he made the hook. I just came and spit some hard sh-t on there. I already knew the streets was going to f-ck with the hook.”
Produced by Mike Will Made-It and Eardrummers, the beat is menacing and commanding, providing the perfect backdrop for Meek’s aggressive delivery and Ross’ authoritative presence. Lyrically, the song references Tupac’s most famous themes—his struggles, his impact, and his status as a martyr of hip-hop.
The chorus, delivered by Rick Ross, makes it clear that this is more than just a song—it’s a declaration:
“Tupac back, Tupac back
That’s all these bitches screaming that Tupac back.”
From the opening 2Pac interview snippet to the numerous lyrical nods to Tupac’s discography, “Tupac Back” serves as a modern-day anthem for fans of the late rapper.
The Impact of “Tupac Back”
Since its release, “Tupac Back” has sparked a wave of remixes and reinterpretations. The song’s structure and theme have inspired other artists to create their own tributes to fallen legends.
- Maino released “Biggie Is Back,” paying tribute to The Notorious B.I.G.
- Joell Ortiz dropped “Big Pun Back,” honoring the late Big Pun.
The fact that “Tupac Back” inspired such responses proves that the song taps into something deeper than nostalgia—it’s a reminder of the lasting influence of hip-hop’s greatest icons.
Even Rick Ross himself sees the song as a way of keeping Tupac’s name alive: “Paying homage to the fallen icon. Just showing love, man, and shout out to all the G’s, Greg Street, and everybody else who showed love and embraced the video and embraced the homies as we paid homage to the legend.”
A Strong Showing for Maybach Music Group
“Tupac Back” is a major win for Maybach Music Group, as it continues to establish itself as a dominant force in hip-hop. The song appears on the newly released Self Made Vol. 1, MMG’s first compilation album, which showcases the label’s talent, including Meek Mill, Wale, and Pill.
The video’s release further cements Meek Mill as a rising star, proving that his energetic flow and street storytelling can resonate on a national level. His chemistry with Rick Ross, combined with the weight of the song’s tribute, makes “Tupac Back” a standout moment for MMG.
With Self Made Vol. 1 now available, MMG is in prime position to continue its dominance in the rap game.
The Legacy of Tupac in 2011
Even 15 years after his passing, Tupac Shakur remains one of the most influential figures in hip-hop. His music, his message, and his rebellious spirit continue to inspire new generations of artists.
“Tupac Back” is just the latest example of how deeply rooted his influence is in the culture. By using their platform to pay tribute, Meek Mill and Rick Ross have ensured that Tupac’s legacy remains relevant in the ever-changing hip-hop landscape.
Conclusion
The release of the “Tupac Back” video marks a significant moment for both Maybach Music Group and hip-hop as a whole. First, there’s Meek Mill’s explosive energy. Second, there’s Rick Ross’ commanding presence. Finally, there’s a backdrop deeply tied to Tupac’s history. So, the video delivers a powerful tribute to one of rap’s most legendary figures.
From its gritty Los Angeles setting to its lyrical and visual references to Tupac’s life, the video stands as a testament to his enduring impact. As MMG continues to rise, “Tupac Back” serves as a reminder that hip-hop’s past is always connected to its future.
With the official release now live, fans can fully experience the homage, the visuals, and the energy that make “Tupac Back” one of the most significant releases of the year.
