Only Fear of Death (Original Version)
Track Information
| Artist | 2Pac |
| Track | Only Fear of Death (Original Version) |
| Performers | 2Pac |
| Producer(s) | Live Squad |
| Writer(s) | Tupac Shakur, Randy Walker (Stretch), Tyruss Himes (Big Syke), Walter Burns, Dirion Rivers, Maurice Harding, George Clinton, William Collins and Bernie Worrell |
| Recorded | October 1993 (estimated) |
| Status | Unreleased |
| Length | Unknown |
Overview
Only Fear of Death (Original Version) is the earliest known recording of the song later released on R U Still Down? (Remember Me) in 1997. Produced by Live Squad, the original version dates from the late 1993 / early 1994 recording sessions and is considered one of the strongest examples of the creative partnership between 2Pac and Stretch.
Unlike many of 2Pac's posthumous releases, the song was not completely reconstructed before its official release. The 1997 version retains Live Squad's original production and arrangement, with the principal differences being a cleaner mix and additional studio polish.
The song explores 2Pac's thoughts on mortality, spirituality and reincarnation, themes that would become increasingly prominent throughout the remainder of his career.
Recording History
Collector research places the original recording between October 1993 and January 1994. Early rough mixes circulated on the Cradle 2 the Grave demo tape before the song was prepared for possible inclusion on 2Pac's planned Stay True album. The recording features a slightly different mix from the later commercial release, with fewer background effects and a rougher overall sound.
One of the song's most distinctive elements is the scratched vocal, "My only fear of death is coming back reincarnated", taken from Livin' In The Edge by Mental Illness & Evil Mind Gangstas. The line became closely associated with 2Pac and reflected his growing interest in death and reincarnation during this period.
Unlike many other unreleased recordings from this era, Only Fear of Death was not substantially reworked before its official release. The version issued on Only Fear of Death for R U Still Down? (Remember Me) in 1997 retained Live Squad's production, making it one of the most faithful posthumous releases in 2Pac's catalogue. Official album credits continue to identify Live Squad as the producer.
Release History
| Year | Release | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1993/94 | Studio Recording | Unreleased | Original recording and early rough mix. |
| 1997 | Only Fear of Death | Album Track | Official release on R U Still Down? (Remember Me). The released version retains Live Squad's original production with updated mixing and mastering. |
Samples
Samples Used
- Gábor Szabó; Breezin' (Melody)
- Detroit Emeralds; You're Getting a Little Too Smart (Drums)
- Mental Illness & Evil Mind Gangstas; Livin' In The Edge (Scratched Vocal)
- Thug Life; Shit Don't Stop (Rough Mix) (Vocals)
- Lafayette Afro Rock Band & Hihache (Possible Drums & unconfirmed)
Lyrics
Lyrics coming soon.
This transcription is currently being prepared for the archive.