: Pac intentionally sampled the same beat/sample used in Nas's "If I Ruled the World" (specifically interpolating Samuel Cohen's "Hatikvah"). This was part of a broader "sample jacking" strategy during their beef, triggered by perceived subliminal shots from Nas on tracks like "The Message" and the release of "Street Dreams".
Critics and fans alike often cite it as a top-five 2Pac song, describing it as the "go-to track" for intense workouts or expressing frustration. Its enduring relevance is seen in modern hip-hop, where artists like and Yasin have sampled or interpolated it in their own works. Troublesome '96
: An earlier version of the track, titled "Criminal Tymes," exists with a partial leaked verse and handwritten lyric sheet. : Pac intentionally sampled the same beat/sample used
: Beyond the Nas-related sample, the track interpolates Whodini's "Friends" and Pac’s own "Bomb First (My Second Reply)" and "Outlaw," creating a self-referential tapestry of his West Coast/Death Row identity. Cultural Legacy Its enduring relevance is seen in modern hip-hop,
: Lyrics like "murder murder my mind state" (which later influenced Eminem's "Murder Murder") showcase a man at war with his environment and his enemies.
: The final verse finds Pac imagining confrontations with his enemies' families, highlighting the internal struggle between his protective instincts and the cycle of violence he felt trapped in.
The track was produced by longtime collaborator and is noted for its high-octane tempo and relentless flow.