Tupac also gave me an introduction to the differentiation between “bitches” and “women.” It’s the rationale he used to explain how he could produce a song like “I Get Around”—a fun party track that revels in the hedonism that accompanies “loose” women—and “Keep Ya Head Up”—a genuine expression of solidarity with the struggles facing black women, especially those living in poverty. The latter, according to Tupac, were real women, deserving of our adoration and undying love. The former were bitches, and there’s nothing wrong with calling a bitch a bitch.
