'96 - Troublesome

: 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

: 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".

: 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. Troublesome '96

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.

The song serves as a haunting snapshot of 2Pac's mindset just months before his death. : Beyond the Nas-related sample, the track interpolates

The track was produced by longtime collaborator and is noted for its high-octane tempo and relentless flow.

: Pac famously debuted the song at his House of Blues concert in July 1996, just two days after Nas's It Was Written was released, further emphasizing the track's competitive edge. Lyrical Themes & Impact : Lyrics like "murder murder my mind state"

: An earlier version of the track, titled "Criminal Tymes," exists with a partial leaked verse and handwritten lyric sheet.