Drake acquires Tupac's Iconic Ringfor over $1 million. The self-designed ring of Tupac Shakur, which the late rapper wore during his final TV appearance at the 1996 MTV Video Music Awards before being gunned down in Las Vegas, was auctioned for $1.01 million this week — and purchased by Drake.
The “God’s Plan” rapper reportedly revealed himself as the buyer on Friday by holding the ring in his fingers in an Instagram Story to promote his new song “Meltdown” with Travis Scott. The coveted bauble itself bears a gold, ruby, and diamond-encrusted crown.
Ring worn by Tupac Shakur sells for over $1M
A Symbol Of Shakur's Pivotal Time
Shakur designed the ring at a pivotal time in his life. The Death Row Records artist was increasingly focused on youth outreach programs, transitioning into a lauded actor, and developing projects of his own when an unsolved drive-by shooting took his life at the age of 25.
He had formed Euphanasia Incorporated, a media company, and hired his godmother, Yaasmyn Fula, to shepherd his transition — which was ushered in with this very ring.
The ring was meticulously designed by Tupac himself, in collaboration with jewelers in New York.
It features a combination of 10-carat cabochon rubies, pavé diamonds, and a golden crown. The outer side is inscribed in honor of his then-fiancée, Kidada Jones, reading "Pac & Dada 1996."
The ring holds a profound significance, reflecting Shakur's dedication to his people, influenced by his mother Afeni's teachings about standing tall against racism, police brutality, and economic inequality.
Drake's Appreciation For Tupac's Legacy
Drake's admiration for Tupac is evident in his collection of a matching pair of diamond pendantsdepicting Shakur in red and blue bandanas — symbolizing his hope of uniting the Bloods and Crips in solidarity against systemic forces — with Christ-like crowns of thorns on his head.
The pendants, valued at $300,000 each, showcase the artist's deep appreciation for Tupac's vision and activism.
Sotheby’s Global Head of Science & Popular Culture, Cassandra Hutton, expressed excitement about the ring's sale to Drake, describing it as a testament to Tupac's enduring influence on both hip-hop and global contemporary culture.
Initially predicted to go for $300,000, the final price of $1 million demonstrates the unmatched significance of Tupac's life and legacy, making it a fitting acquisition for music royalty like Drake.
Drake's Announcement On Instagram
Celebrating the release of his track "Meltdown" with Travis Scott's UTOPIA, Drake took to Instagram to announce his latest acquisition.
The photo posted as an Instagram Story showed the Canadian artist wearing the bejeweled ring, confirming that it was Tupac Shakur's iconic ring purchased at the Sotheby's auction.
Drake's purchase of Tupac's ring has ignited excitement among hip-hop fans and served as a testament to the lasting impact of the legendary rapper's life and work on the genre and contemporary culture.
As hip-hop celebrates its 50th anniversary, Tupac Shakur's ring continues to be a symbol of power, influence, and artistic legacy that transcends time and resonates with future generations.
Final Words
In a historic Sotheby's auction, Drake made a million-dollar tribute by acquiring Tupac Shakur's iconic ring.
This remarkable purchase not only reflects Drake's admiration for the late rapper but also highlights the enduring influence of Tupac's legacy in the world of hip-hop and global contemporary culture.
With this significant acquisition, the ring takes on a new chapter in the hands of another legendary artist, symbolizing the eternal impact of both Tupac's life and music royalty.