All Eyez on Me: Ranking the 27 Best Songs

Updated at: 02/06/2025

2Pac's All Eyez on Me, released in 1996, stands as a monumental achievement in hip-hop history, a double-disc testament to the artist's raw talent and unflinching storytelling. This album, released during the peak of his career, captures a pivotal moment in his life, reflecting both the triumphs and struggles of a young man navigating fame, controversy, and a complex social landscape. From the hard-hitting realities depicted in tracks about street life to the more introspective moments exploring his vulnerabilities, All Eyez on Me offers a deeply personal and multifaceted listening experience. This list celebrates the enduring power of this iconic album, showcasing its diversity and reminding listeners of its cultural impact, proving that even decades later, the music retains its emotional resonance.

The album showcases 2Pac’s unparalleled ability to blend hard-edged gangsta rap with soulful melodies and socially conscious lyrics. It's a journey through his experiences, from the celebratory anthems that solidified his status as a rap icon to poignant reflections on mortality and the pressures of fame. The sheer range of sounds and collaborations within the double album is remarkable, further emphasizing his artistic mastery and pushing the boundaries of what hip-hop could achieve. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering 2Pac's music, this curated selection of songs offers a compelling entry point into his rich and complex legacy. It's a testament to his musical genius and a journey through some of the most impactful and enduring tracks in hip-hop history.

All Eyez on Me: Ranking the 27 Best Songs
Song	Artist	Album	Listens
1. Hit 'Em Up	2Pac Outlawz		720M+
2. 2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted	2Pac Snoop Dogg		49M+
3. Shorty Wanna Be a Thug	2Pac		37M+
4. Picture Me Rollin'	2Pac		37M+
5. Only God Can Judge Me	2Pac Rappin' 4-Tay	All Eyez On Me	32M+
6. Life Goes On	2Pac		31M+
7. Ambitionz Az A Ridah	2Pac	All Eyez On Me	29M+

1. Hit 'Em Up - 1996

2Pac's "Hit 'Em Up" a venomous diss track aimed at several rivals, remains one of his most infamous and enduring songs. Its aggressive lyrical content and unflinching delivery resonated deeply with audiences, solidifying its place in hip-hop history. While charting information isn't readily available for all platforms across its lifespan, its enduring popularity is undeniable, fueled by consistent streaming numbers and its enduring presence in cultural conversations. The song’s brutal honesty and raw emotion, stemming from intense personal conflicts, arguably contributed to its impact. Its legacy continues to grow, testament to 2Pac's powerful influence on hip-hop and his lasting appeal to generations of fans.

2. 2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted (1996)

"2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted" featuring 2Pac and Snoop Dogg, is a standout track on All Eyez on Me, a top contender among the album's best. The song's impact is immediate; its powerful, gritty beat and seamless blend of West Coast styles create an undeniable energy. 2Pac's raw, aggressive delivery, paired with Snoop Dogg's laid-back flow, perfectly encapsulates the album's themes of gang life and societal struggles. The lyrical content, sharply focused and unflinchingly honest, resonates deeply, reflecting the realities of the time. Musically, the song's strength lies in its hard-hitting rhythm and the complementary vocal styles, showcasing the chemistry between these two rap giants. "2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted" stands as a pivotal moment on All Eyez on Me, demonstrating 2Pac's ability to craft both intensely personal and socially conscious music.

3. Shorty Wanna Be a Thug (2Pac - 1996)

"Shorty Wanna Be a Thug" a standout track on 2Pac's All Eyez on Me, is a top contender for the album's best songs. Its compelling lyrical content explores the complexities of gender roles and societal pressures, showcasing 2Pac's insightful storytelling. The song's infectious beat, driven by a memorable sample, keeps the listener engaged, while 2Pac's raw and emotionally charged delivery powerfully conveys the narrative. The track's blend of hard-hitting hip-hop and introspective lyrics perfectly encapsulates the multifaceted nature of All Eyez on Me, representing a darker, more introspective side of 2Pac compared to some of the album's more celebratory anthems. The song’s rhythmic complexity and dynamic shifts in tempo further add to its overall appeal.

4. Picture Me Rollin'

"Picture Me Rollin'" a standout track from 2Pac's seminal 1996 album All Eyez on Me, immediately captivates with its hard-hitting beat and powerful lyrics. Featuring guest appearances from Big Syke, CPO, and Danny Boy, the song is a testament to 2Pac's enduring legacy, remaining popular decades after its release, a true testament to its timeless quality. Sampling classic tracks by Johnny "J" and Kool & the Gang, "Picture Me Rollin'" encapsulates 2Pac's post-incarceration spirit, portraying resilience and a defiant declaration of freedom. This anthem of survival showcases his unmatched lyrical prowess and continues to resonate with listeners today, proving its lasting impact on hip-hop culture. The song's enduring popularity is a reflection of 2Pac's profound artistry and his ability to articulate complex emotions with raw honesty.

5. Only God Can Judge Me (2Pac ft Rappin' 4-Tay)

In the landscape of '90s hip-hop, where aggressive beats often reigned supreme, "Only God Can Judge Me" a collaboration between 2Pac and Rappin' 4-Tay from All Eyez on Me, stands out as a powerful and introspective ballad. A top contender among the album's many hits, the track's enduring appeal stems from 2Pac's raw, emotional delivery and the haunting incorporation of a heartbeat monitor sound – a symbolic element perfectly complementing the lyrics' themes of betrayal and societal injustice. The song’s potent message, reflecting on the violence and hypocrisy within his own community, resonates deeply, even more so today than upon its release in 1996. Musically, the track’s understated beat allows 2Pac's poignant verses to take center stage, showcasing a vulnerability rarely heard on other tracks from the often braggadocios All Eyez on Me. This emotional depth and profound social commentary solidify "Only God Can Judge Me" as a pivotal moment on the album, representing a poignant counterpoint to its more aggressive offerings and highlighting 2Pac's artistic range.