The Dangerous World Of Rap

NOTORIOUS B.I.G.

Born Christopher Wallace, grew up in New York, where he was a crack dealer before finding escape in rap music. Got involved in a rap-scene feud and died, aged 24, in a hail of bullets as he left a party in California in March 1997.

TUPAC SHAKUR

Born in New York, the son of Black Panther Afeni Shakur. Moved to California, joined growing West Coast rap scene. His life mirrored his macho lyrics. Shot dead, at the age of 25, as he left a Mike Tyson heavyweight title fight in September 1996.

OL' DIRTY BASTARD

Born Russell Jones, Ol' Dirty Bastard founded the Wu-Tang Clan record and fashion label. The Clan is one of New York's best-known rap groups, famous for its hit "Protect Ya Neck". Last July, he was shot and injured in a robbery at his apartment in Brooklyn.