Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. on October 20, 1971, in Long Beach, California, is a multi-faceted personality in the entertainment industry. He emerged in the 1990s as a rapper discovered by Dr. Dre, and quickly became a significant figure in the rap music scene. His debut album, “Doggystyle” (1993), was critically acclaimed and is often credited for helping to popularize West Coast hip hop.
Over the years, Snoop Dogg has evolved beyond music, becoming a cultural icon. His music career spans decades with numerous hit singles and albums, contributing to the genre with his distinctive laid-back lyrical style and unique voice. Moreover, his collaborations with other artists across different genres have showcased his versatility.
Besides music, Snoop Dogg has ventured into acting, hosting, and business. He has appeared in various films, TV shows, and has hosted several programs, often showcasing his humorous and charismatic personality. His endeavors also extend into the business realm, with investments in the cannabis industry, a sector he passionately advocates for.
Snoop Dogg is also known for his social and political commentary, often using his platform to address issues of racial injustice and community outreach. He’s a notable figure in the cannabis legalization movement, reflecting a broader advocacy for societal change and the breaking down of stigmas.
His persona, often seen as emblematic of West Coast hip hop culture, along with his various ventures, have made Snoop Dogg a well-rounded and influential figure in both the music industry and the broader cultural landscape. Through his music, acting, and activism, Snoop Dogg continues to leave a lasting imprint on American culture and beyond.
1. “Drop It Like It’s Hot”
“Drop It Like It’s Hot” is one of Snoop Dogg’s most iconic tracks, released in 2004 as a part of his seventh studio album, ‘R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece’. The song also features producer and rapper Pharrell Williams. The phrase “Drop It Like It’s Hot” had been in the hip-hop lexicon before this song, but Snoop Dogg’s version brought a new level of popularity to it. The track showcases a minimalist, catchy beat produced by The Neptunes (Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo), which is instantly recognizable. The beat, combined with Snoop Dogg’s smooth delivery and clever wordplay, makes this track a memorable one.
The lyrical content of “Drop It Like It’s Hot” is braggadocious, with Snoop Dogg and Pharrell boasting about their success, wealth, and status in the hip-hop community. They use a series of clever metaphors and catchy hooks to convey their message, making the song both entertaining and lyrically engaging. Additionally, the music video for “Drop It Like It’s Hot” is iconic in its own right, featuring a minimalist black and white aesthetic that matches the beat’s simplicity and a dance that became popular alongside the song.
“Drop It Like It’s Hot” charted at the top of the US Billboard Hot 100, becoming Snoop Dogg’s first single to reach the number one spot. Its cultural impact and popularity at the time of its release, and its lasting legacy in the years following, solidify “Drop It Like It’s Hot” as one of Snoop Dogg’s most significant and celebrated tracks.
2. “Gin and Juice”
“Gin and Juice” is another seminal hit from Snoop Dogg, released in 1994 as the second single from his debut album ‘Doggystyle’. The song has since become one of Snoop’s signature tracks, embodying the laid-back West Coast hip-hop vibe with its smooth flow and funky, bass-driven beat. Produced by Dr. Dre, the beat is infectious, and Snoop’s lyrical storytelling is at its finest as he narrates tales from his neighborhood.
The title “Gin and Juice” refers to Snoop’s favorite cocktail, and the lyrics delve into the rapper’s lifestyle in a playful yet authentic manner. Snoop Dogg explores themes of youthful recklessness, party culture, and the contrasting realities of life in the 1990s urban America. His unique ability to blend humor with a gritty depiction of his surroundings makes “Gin and Juice” a standout track.
The catchy hook, “Rollin’ down the street, smokin’ indo, sippin’ on gin and juice,” became an anthem for a generation and is still quoted today. The song’s music video, directed by Dr. Dre, further cemented its status by showcasing the West Coast party scene, full of laid-back vibes and a sense of community.
“Gin and Juice” peaked at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Its success helped solidify Snoop Dogg’s reputation as a leading figure in the hip-hop genre during the 90s, and its enduring popularity showcases the timeless appeal of his music.
3. “Who Am I (What’s My Name)?”
“Who Am I (What’s My Name)?” is one of Snoop Dogg’s breakthrough singles, released in 1993 as part of his critically acclaimed debut album ‘Doggystyle’. The track was produced by Dr. Dre and features additional vocals from Jewell. This song played a pivotal role in establishing Snoop Dogg’s identity in the hip-hop community, both musically and persona-wise. The title itself, “Who Am I (What’s My Name)?,” reflects Snoop’s introduction to the wider audience, establishing his stage name and persona.
Musically, the song is a quintessential example of the G-funk subgenre, which was pioneered by Dr. Dre. The track features a smooth, groove-heavy beat, interspersed with funky bass lines and synthesized sounds that were characteristic of the West Coast hip-hop sound at the time. Snoop Dogg’s laid-back, charismatic delivery paired with his clever and playful lyrics made this song a standout track on ‘Doggystyle’ and a signature Snoop Dogg anthem.
The music video for “Who Am I (What’s My Name)?” further amplified Snoop Dogg’s image with its playful narrative and iconic visuals. It showcased the fun and playful side of West Coast hip-hop culture while also solidifying Snoop Dogg’s identity as a charismatic and unique artist in the hip-hop scene.
This song not only solidified Snoop Dogg’s status within the hip-hop community but also contributed to the growing popularity and recognition of West Coast hip-hop on a national and international scale.
4. “Nuthin’ But A G Thang” (Feat. Dr. Dre)
“Nuthin’ But A G Thang” is a classic track by Dr. Dre featuring Snoop Dogg, released in 1992 as the lead single from Dr. Dre’s debut solo album, ‘The Chronic’. This song is often credited with introducing Snoop Dogg to the mainstream audience prior to the release of his debut album. It’s a quintessential G-funk track, a subgenre of hip-hop known for its smooth, groovy beats and funk influences, a style pioneered by Dr. Dre during the early 90s.
The chemistry between Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg is palpable in “Nuthin’ But A G Thang”, as their verses seamlessly transition from one to the other, creating a conversational flow. The lyrical content is filled with street tales, humor, and a laid-back yet confident demeanor that became characteristic of West Coast hip-hop.
The music video for “Nuthin’ But A G Thang” is iconic, capturing the essence of early 90s West Coast hip-hop culture, showcasing lowriders, house parties, and the camaraderie within the community. This visual representation, paired with the infectious beat and catchy hook, helped propel “Nuthin’ But A G Thang” to commercial success and critical acclaim. It peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since been recognized as one of the greatest hip-hop songs of all time.
“Nuthin’ But A G Thang” was more than just a hit single; it was a cultural statement that showcased the burgeoning West Coast hip-hop scene and solidified Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s place within it.
5. “Deep Cover” (Feat. Dr. Dre)
“Deep Cover,” also known as “187,” is a significant track in Snoop Dogg’s early career, marking his first collaboration with Dr. Dre. Released in 1992 as a part of the soundtrack for the film of the same name, this song introduced Snoop Dogg to the wider audience before his debut album ‘Doggystyle’. Produced by Dr. Dre, “Deep Cover” is set to a dark, menacing beat that underlines the gritty narrative of undercover police work and the criminal underworld.
Snoop Dogg’s smooth, laid-back flow juxtaposes the song’s grim subject matter, showcasing his ability to deliver hard-hitting lyrics with a cool demeanor. His chemistry with Dr. Dre is evident, setting the stage for their future collaborations that would come to define West Coast hip-hop. The phrase “187 on an undercover cop” from the song’s hook became particularly iconic, demonstrating Snoop’s knack for catchy and memorable phrases.
“Deep Cover” is often recognized for its raw storytelling and is a seminal track that helped establish the gritty, street-wise persona that Snoop Dogg would be known for throughout his career.
6. “Murder Was The Case”
“Murder Was The Case” is a song from Snoop Dogg’s debut album ‘Doggystyle’, released in 1993. The track explores a fictional scenario where Snoop Dogg is charged with murder and makes a deal with the devil for his freedom. The narrative is dark and introspective, delving into themes of mortality, spirituality, and the moral consequences of one’s actions.
The beat, produced by Dr. Dre, complements the song’s narrative with its eerie, haunting sound, creating a somber atmosphere. Snoop Dogg’s storytelling ability shines through as he navigates through the grim tale, delivering a compelling narrative performance that keeps the listener engaged.
“Murder Was The Case” also inspired a short film and soundtrack of the same name, further expanding on the song’s narrative and showcasing Snoop Dogg’s ability to transcend music and delve into other forms of media.
7. “Beautiful” (Feat. Pharrell)
“Beautiful” is a track from Snoop Dogg’s album ‘Paid Tha Cost To Be Da Bo$$’, released in 2002. The song, featuring Pharrell Williams, is an upbeat, romantic ode to the women in Snoop Dogg’s life. Unlike many of his other tracks which delve into grittier themes, “Beautiful” is a feel-good, smooth song with a catchy hook and a vibrant beat produced by The Neptunes.
Pharrell’s contribution to the track both in production and vocals adds a layer of smoothness and complements Snoop Dogg’s laid-back style perfectly. The music video, shot in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is colorful and energetic, capturing the song’s positive, loving vibe.
“Beautiful” became a commercial success, peaking at number six on the US Billboard Hot 100, and its catchy, love-centric lyrics along with the groovy beat make it a standout track in Snoop Dogg’s discography, showcasing a more tender, romantic side of the rapper.
8. “Tha Shiznit”
“Tha Shiznit” is a track from Snoop Dogg’s debut album ‘Doggystyle,’ released in 1993. This song is a display of Snoop Dogg’s smooth flow and clever wordplay. The term “Shiznit” is a slang phrase indicative of something being exceptionally good or “the real deal,” and Snoop Dogg uses it to assert his authenticity and superior skills in the hip-hop scene. The beat, characteristic of the G-funk sound, is laid-back yet rhythmic, providing a perfect backdrop for Snoop Dogg’s lyrical prowess.
The song doesn’t follow a traditional verse-chorus structure but instead flows as a continuous narrative, allowing Snoop to showcase his storytelling skills. “Tha Shiznit” is a testament to Snoop Dogg’s ability to meld catchy phrases with a smooth delivery, making it a standout track in his extensive discography.
9. “The Next Episode” (Feat. Dr. Dre)
“The Next Episode” is a classic West Coast hip-hop track by Dr. Dre featuring Snoop Dogg, from the album ‘2001,’ released in 1999. This song continues the collaborative magic between Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, showcasing their chemistry and shared musical vision. The beat is a signature Dr. Dre production, with a catchy, head-nodding rhythm, and Snoop Dogg’s verses add a charismatic flair to the track.
“The Next Episode” has become synonymous with the West Coast hip-hop scene due to its memorable hook and iconic phrase “Smoke weed every day,” which is delivered by Nate Dogg towards the end of the track. The song’s lyrics reflect the West Coast lifestyle, with mentions of parties, marijuana, and the camaraderie within the hip-hop community.
“The Next Episode” peaked at number 23 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and remains a staple in the hip-hop genre, symbolizing the era of West Coast dominance in the late ’90s and early 2000s.
10. “Lodi Dodi”
“Lodi Dodi” is a track from Snoop Dogg’s debut album ‘Doggystyle’ released in 1993. The song is a cover of Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick’s 1985 classic “La Di Da Di.” Snoop Dogg pays homage to the original while adding his unique West Coast flair to the track. His version retains the narrative style of the original but infuses it with his distinctive laid-back flow and G-funk sound.
Snoop Dogg’s lyrical prowess is on display as he navigates through a day in his life, filled with humorous and clever anecdotes. The beat, produced by Dr. Dre, complements Snoop Dogg’s storytelling with its smooth, groove-heavy rhythm.
“Lodi Dodi” is a testament to Snoop Dogg’s respect for hip-hop’s history, showcasing his ability to take a classic track, pay homage, and make it his own. It remains a fan-favorite and is a notable example of Snoop Dogg’s unique style and deep-rooted connection to hip-hop culture.
David Morrison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
