California Love

Just a few weeks after his release from prison, Tupac returned with the biggest hit of his career. California Love, produced by Dr. Dre and driven by Roger Troutman’s talk box on the chorus, celebrated the West Coast as a party anthem. At the same time, it marked Tupac’s first single for Death Row Records.

Originally Intended for Dr. Dre

The song celebrates California as a place for parties, cars, and gangs-from Los Angeles through Compton to Oakland. Dr. Dre delivers the first verse, Tupac the second, while Roger Troutman of Zapp sings the chorus through his talk box. According to widespread accounts, the track was initially intended for an album by Dr. Dre before turning into Tupac’s comeback single.

Mad Max in the El Mirage Desert

Directed by Hype Williams, the concept originated from Jada Pinkett. The video is set in a desert world modeled on Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome and was shot in November 1995 in El Mirage, California; Chris Tucker appears as an announcer. A second video was filmed for the remix, continuing the storyline at a house party.

Two Weeks at No. 1 and a Grammy Nomination

In the US, California Love spent two weeks at No. 1. The single also became a major hit in Europe: No. 6 in the UK, No. 7 in Germany and Switzerland, as well as No. 9 in Austria. In 1997, the song was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group.

Four Tracks on the European CD Single

This edition is the European CD single (DRWCD 3, also released in Australia).