“You may write me down in history With your bitter, twisted lies, You may trod me in the very dirt But still, like dust, I’ll rise” – Maya Angelou
She was remarkable, exceptional, unbelievably humble, and wise beyond measure. Today, the world lost a phenomenal woman, Dr. Maya Angelou, who not only impacted the African-American community with her art and activism, but the world.
Besides her work as a poet, civil rights activist, singer, and philanthropist, Maya Angelou’s art transcended generations because of her constant personal quest to connect, understand, and embrace a younger generation of African-American men and women.
From collaborating with Boyz In The Hood director John Singleton on the 1993 classic Poetic Justice, to sharing thoughts and ideas with famed comedian Dave Chappelle for Sundance’s Iconoclasts, Maya Angelou made it her priority to spread wisdom and love to the “hip-hop generation.”
In honor of her life and accomplishments, we decided to celebrate Maya by highlighting her coolest hip-hop moments.
Rest in power, Dr. Angelou.
She collaborated with Common on his 2011 track “The Dreamer.”
And sat down with Common to have a discussion about the plight of black men.
Maya Angelou mentored Tupac Shakur, made him weep, & later referred to him as “Six Pack” in an interview.
Atlanta rapper T.I. attended her 80th birthday party.
She assisted director John Singleton on the set of the classic 1993 film Poetic Justice, starring Janet Jackson and Tupac.
All the poems Janet Jackson’s character “Justice” recited during the film were actually written by Maya Angelou.
She spent the day with comedian Dave Chappelle for Sundance’s Iconoclasts.
Maya’s voice was featured on Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, m.A.A.d city cut “Sing About Me/ I’m Dying Of Thirst.” (10:55 mark)
PHOTO CREDIT: GettyImages
