2025 marks a monumental year for rapper SKG (born Helecia Choyce), a year that sees her reflecting on the past while honoring the legends that shaped her career. As we approach the 24th anniversary of Tupac Shakur’s Until the End of Time album, a project SKG was deeply involved in as a young artist, she takes a moment to honor the contributions of one of the most significant women in hip-hop history: Afeni Shakur.
SKG was only a teenager when she wrote and performed on the album’s #4 single “Let Em Have It,” a track that helped launch her career. But it’s not just her musical contributions that have stayed with her—it’s the personal impact Tupac’s mother, Afeni Shakur, had on her life that has remained with her to this day. To mark this powerful anniversary, SKG released “Thank You Afeni,” a heartfelt tribute to the woman who, through her guidance, helped change SKG’s life.
In the track, SKG opens up about how Afeni’s support, both professional and personal, was a pivotal moment in her career. She recalls how, at the time, she was struggling with homelessness and single motherhood. Afeni, who was known for her strength, wisdom, and advocacy, made a significant impact on SKG’s journey by helping her secure a five-figure check from Interscope Records. This financial windfall not only helped SKG provide for her young daughter but also gave her the stability to pursue her dreams in the music industry.
But “Thank You Afeni” isn’t just about financial help; it’s about a spark Afeni ignited in SKG—a spark that encouraged her to understand the business side of the industry, to learn how to navigate the complex world of music beyond the microphone. Afeni’s mentorship planted the seed for SKG to become a “jack of all trades” in the music industry, contributing both in front of the camera and behind the scenes.
“Thank You Afeni” is a powerful testimony, a tribute to a woman who not only raised a legendary artist but also uplifted the many others who came through her orbit. Afeni’s influence stretched far beyond Tupac’s legacy, shaping the careers of many West Coast artists, including SKG, who is now paving her own way and using her platform to elevate others in the industry.
As the 24th anniversary of Until the End of Time approaches, SKG’s reflection on her past serves as a reminder of how one individual’s kindness, wisdom, and mentorship can forever change the course of someone’s life. Through “Thank You Afeni,” SKG continues to honor the legacy of Tupac Shakur and his incredible mother, Afeni, whose impact on hip-hop and on the lives of countless artists will never be forgotten.
This anniversary is not just a moment to look back at Until the End of Time and Tupac’s revolutionary music, but a time to acknowledge the unsung heroes behind the scenes—the ones like Afeni Shakur, whose influence extends far beyond the public eye and continues to inspire future generations of artists like SKG.
Watch “Thank You Afeni” Now
Edited and Directed by Kris Petersen
KPE Media
