Part Two: P. Diddy: A Life in Crimes
Behind the Bastards
Deep Dive
Why did the East Coast and West Coast rap feud escalate?
The feud escalated primarily due to the rivalry between Bad Boy Records (led by Diddy) and Death Row Records (led by Suge Knight). This tension was fueled by the success of Biggie Smalls (East Coast) and Tupac Shakur (West Coast), leading to a series of violent incidents and deaths.
What was the earliest allegation of sexual assault against Diddy?
In 1991, Joy Dickerson Neal accused Diddy of drugging and raping her. He allegedly filmed the assault and used the footage as revenge porn.
How did Diddy's involvement in the rap feud lead to deaths?
Diddy's involvement included hiring gang members like Keefie D, who was implicated in Tupac's murder. The feud resulted in the deaths of both Tupac and Biggie Smalls, with Diddy's connections to organized crime playing a significant role.
What was the role of Keefie D in Tupac's murder?
Keefie D admitted to being involved in Tupac's drive-by shooting in 1996. He claimed that Diddy offered him a million dollars to kill Tupac, though the money was allegedly pocketed by another gang member.
How did Diddy capitalize on Biggie's death?
Diddy released the hit single 'I'll Be Missing You' in 1997, which debuted at number one on the Billboard Top 100. The song was a tribute to Biggie but also a commercial success, earning Diddy significant profits.
What was the impact of the East Coast-West Coast feud on the rap industry?
The feud led to the deaths of iconic rappers Tupac and Biggie, creating a lasting legacy of violence and rivalry in the rap industry. It also highlighted the intersection of gang culture and the music business.
How did Diddy's alleged involvement in Tupac's murder affect his image?
Despite the allegations, Diddy's image remained largely unscathed outside the industry. His involvement in the feud was overshadowed by his role in Biggie and Tupac's deaths, which were seen as more significant crimes.
What was the significance of the Source Awards in the East Coast-West Coast feud?
The Source Awards in 1995 were a key moment where Suge Knight publicly insulted Diddy and Bad Boy Records, escalating the rivalry and leading to further violence and deaths.
How did Diddy's early life influence his career?
Diddy and Biggie both lost their fathers at a young age, which may have contributed to their bond and their shared drive to succeed in the music industry.
What was the role of organized crime in the East Coast-West Coast feud?
The feud involved gang members from the Bloods and Crips, with Diddy hiring gang-affiliated individuals for protection and potentially for hits. This blurred the lines between the music industry and organized crime.
- Earliest allegation of sexual assault against Diddy in 1991
- Signing of Biggie Smalls
- Biggie's honest portrayal of his criminal past in music
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