Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. on October 20, 1971, in Long Beach, California, is an iconic figure in the world of hip-hop. Emerging in the early 1990s, he quickly rose to fame and became one of the most influential and recognizable voices in the rap genre. Known for his distinctive laid-back delivery, smooth flow, and charisma, Snoop Dogg has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Snoop’s debut album, “Doggystyle,” released in 1993, became an instant classic, featuring hits like “Gin and Juice” and “What’s My Name?” His lyrical prowess and unique style, often laced with West Coast G-funk vibes, contributed to the album’s widespread success.
Beyond his music career, Snoop Dogg has become a multifaceted entertainer, venturing into acting, entrepreneurship, and even reggae under the moniker Snoop Lion. His laid-back persona, distinctive drawl, and ubiquitous presence in pop culture have made him a beloved and enduring figure.
Throughout his career, Snoop Dogg has been an influential force in shaping the trajectory of hip-hop, leaving an undeniable legacy that extends beyond the boundaries of the genre. From his early days as a protégé of Dr. Dre to his enduring status as an elder statesman of rap, Snoop Dogg continues to be a cultural icon and a symbol of West Coast hip-hop.
1. “Drop It Like It’s Hot”
“Drop It Like It’s Hot” is a hip-hop single by Snoop Dogg featuring Pharrell Williams. Released in 2004 as the lead single from Snoop Dogg’s seventh studio album, “R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece,” the track became a massive commercial success and is considered one of Snoop Dogg’s signature songs.
The song is characterized by its minimalist and laid-back production, featuring a slow and steady beat accompanied by a catchy synthesizer riff. Pharrell Williams provides the smooth and melodic hook, singing “Drop it like it’s hot” in a falsetto tone. Snoop Dogg’s verses showcase his trademark laid-back flow and clever wordplay.
Lyrically, “Drop It Like It’s Hot” explores themes of confidence, style, and the allure of a carefree, glamorous lifestyle. The phrase “drop it like it’s hot” is a metaphor for dancing provocatively and letting loose.
The accompanying music video, directed by Paul Hunter, features sleek and stylish visuals, emphasizing the luxurious and glamorous atmosphere portrayed in the song. The video showcases Snoop Dogg and Pharrell in various opulent settings, further enhancing the track’s cool and sophisticated vibe.
“Drop It Like It’s Hot” topped the charts, earning critical acclaim and multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group. The song’s infectious hook, coupled with Snoop Dogg’s smooth delivery and Pharrell’s production, solidified its place as a hip-hop anthem and a standout moment in both artists’ careers.
2. “Gin and Juice”
“Gin and Juice” is a classic hip-hop song by Snoop Doggy Dogg, now known as Snoop Dogg, from his debut studio album, “Doggystyle,” released in 1993. The track features guest vocals by Dat Nigga Daz.
The song is celebrated for its laid-back West Coast vibe, G-funk production, and Snoop Dogg’s smooth delivery. It became one of Snoop Dogg’s signature songs and a defining anthem of the G-funk era in hip-hop.
Lyrically, “Gin and Juice” paints a vivid picture of a day in the life of Snoop Dogg as he relaxes, parties, and enjoys the finer things in life. The chorus features the catchy and iconic lines: “Rollin’ down the street, smokin’ indo, sippin’ on gin and juice.”
Dr. Dre produced the track, infusing it with the signature G-funk sound characterized by funky basslines, synthesizers, and laid-back beats. The production became emblematic of the West Coast hip-hop scene in the early ’90s.
The accompanying music video, directed by Dr. Dre, features a party atmosphere with Snoop Dogg and his crew enjoying a relaxed day filled with fun and games.
“Gin and Juice” remains a timeless and influential hip-hop classic, celebrated for its infectious groove, memorable lyrics, and its role in shaping the sound of West Coast rap during the ’90s.
3. “Who Am I (What’s My Name)?”
“Who Am I (What’s My Name)?” is a song by American rapper Snoop Dogg, released in 1993 as the lead single from his debut studio album, “Doggystyle.” The track features a prominent sample from George Clinton’s song “Atomic Dog” and showcases Snoop Dogg’s smooth flow and laid-back delivery.
The song’s lyrics revolve around Snoop Dogg’s introduction to the world and his laid-back, West Coast lifestyle. The repeated refrain of “Snoop Doggy Dogg” became a signature element, contributing to the rapper’s identity and the song’s catchiness.
“Who Am I (What’s My Name)?” played a crucial role in establishing Snoop Dogg as a prominent figure in the hip-hop scene. The track’s success contributed to the overall acclaim and commercial achievements of “Doggystyle,” which went on to become a landmark album in West Coast hip-hop.
The music video for the song, directed by Dr. Dre, features vibrant and stylized visuals, capturing the essence of the West Coast hip-hop culture during the early 1990s. “Who Am I (What’s My Name)?” remains one of Snoop Dogg’s most iconic and recognizable tracks.
4. “Nuthin’ But A G Thang” (Feat. Dr. Dre)
“Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” is a classic hip-hop song by Dr. Dre featuring Snoop Doggy Dogg (now known as Snoop Dogg). It was released in 1992 as the lead single from Dr. Dre’s debut solo album, “The Chronic.”
The song is celebrated for its smooth production, laid-back vibe, and the chemistry between Dr. Dre and Snoop Doggy Dogg. Dr. Dre’s production, characterized by a funky bassline and a sample from Leon Haywood’s “I Want’a Do Something Freaky to You,” became instantly recognizable and iconic in the hip-hop genre.
The lyrics of “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” highlight the West Coast hip-hop lifestyle, and both Dr. Dre and Snoop Doggy Dogg deliver verses that showcase their lyrical prowess. The chorus, featuring lines like “It’s like this and like that and like this and uh,” became a signature element of the song.
The music video, directed by Dr. Dre, features scenes of the artists enjoying a California barbecue and captures the laid-back, party atmosphere that became associated with West Coast hip-hop.
“Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” is considered a classic in hip-hop history and played a pivotal role in establishing Dr. Dre and Snoop Doggy Dogg as major forces in the genre. The song’s impact and influence continue to be felt in the hip-hop community.
5. “Deep Cover” (Feat. Dr. Dre)
“Deep Cover,” also known as “187,” is a hip-hop single by Dr. Dre featuring Snoop Doggy Dogg, now known as Snoop Dogg. The song was released in 1992 as the lead single for the soundtrack of the film “Deep Cover,” and it marked one of the early collaborations between Dr. Dre and Snoop Doggy Dogg.
The track is significant in hip-hop history as it marked the introduction of Snoop Doggy Dogg to the mainstream audience. Snoop’s distinctive and laid-back flow immediately captured attention, setting the stage for his later success.
Lyrically, “Deep Cover” explores themes of crime, violence, and the street life. The title “Deep Cover” refers to an undercover police operation, and both Dr. Dre and Snoop Doggy Dogg deliver verses that reflect the perspective of those navigating the dangerous world of crime.
Produced by Dr. Dre, the beat features a sinister and melodic synth line, capturing the gritty and atmospheric tone of the lyrics. The song’s catchy chorus, with Snoop Doggy Dogg declaring “187 on an undercover cop,” became a memorable and iconic moment in hip-hop.
“Deep Cover” played a pivotal role in establishing the West Coast sound and Dr. Dre’s reputation as a producer. It laid the groundwork for the subsequent collaboration between Dr. Dre and Snoop Doggy Dogg on the groundbreaking album “The Chronic,” released a year later, which further solidified their impact on the hip-hop landscape.
6. “Murder Was The Case”
“Murder Was the Case” is a song by Snoop Doggy Dogg, released in 1994 as a single from the soundtrack of the short film of the same name. The short film was based on a fictionalized account of Snoop Doggy Dogg’s trial for murder in 1993.
The song is known for its dark and ominous production, featuring a slow and haunting beat. It explores themes of violence, death, and the consequences of living a dangerous lifestyle. Snoop Doggy Dogg reflects on his rise to fame and the challenges he faces, including legal troubles.
The lyrics tell a narrative of Snoop Doggy Dogg being shot and killed, leading to a deal with the devil to come back to life. The somber tone and vivid storytelling contribute to the eerie atmosphere of the song.
“Murder Was the Case” is notable for its impact on Snoop Doggy Dogg’s career and the West Coast hip-hop scene. The song was successful both critically and commercially, and it became a defining track in Snoop Doggy Dogg’s discography. The accompanying short film added an extra layer of storytelling and visual representation to the song’s narrative.
7. “Beautiful” (Feat. Pharrell)
“Beautiful” is a song by Snoop Dogg featuring Pharrell Williams, released in 2003 as the third single from Snoop Dogg’s sixth studio album, “Paid tha Cost to Be da Boss.”
The track is known for its laid-back and melodic vibe, featuring Pharrell’s smooth vocals on the chorus and Snoop Dogg’s signature flow. The production, handled by The Neptunes (Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo), incorporates a mellow beat and soulful elements, creating a feel-good and relaxed atmosphere.
Lyrically, “Beautiful” explores themes of admiration for women, expressing appreciation for their physical and personal qualities. The song’s positive and celebratory tone contrasts with some of Snoop Dogg’s earlier, more gangsta rap-oriented work.
The music video for “Beautiful” features vibrant and colorful visuals, capturing a summer party atmosphere. The collaboration between Snoop Dogg and Pharrell proved successful, and the song became a commercial hit, receiving positive reviews for its catchy melody and laid-back style.
“Beautiful” remains one of Snoop Dogg’s well-known and well-received tracks, showcasing his versatility as an artist and the chemistry he shares with Pharrell Williams.
8. “Tha Shiznit”
“Tha Shiznit” is a track by Snoop Doggy Dogg, now known as Snoop Dogg, from his debut studio album, “Doggystyle,” released in 1993. The song showcases Snoop’s smooth delivery and laid-back flow, becoming one of the standout tracks on the album.
Lyrically, “Tha Shiznit” features Snoop Dogg’s signature style of storytelling, with vivid and often humorous depictions of life in Long Beach, California. The lyrics touch on various aspects of Snoop’s experiences, including his success, lifestyle, and interactions with others in the entertainment industry.
Produced by Dr. Dre, the beat of “Tha Shiznit” is characterized by its funky and G-funk sound. The production style, marked by deep basslines, funky samples, and smooth synthesizers, became emblematic of the West Coast hip-hop scene in the early ’90s.
The title “Tha Shiznit” is a slang term popularized by Snoop Dogg, representing something excellent or top-notch. The track became one of the defining moments of “Doggystyle,” contributing to the album’s critical and commercial success.
Snoop Dogg’s charismatic delivery and Dr. Dre’s production prowess made “Tha Shiznit” not only a fan favorite but also a quintessential example of the G-funk sound that defined an era in hip-hop.
9. “The Next Episode” (Feat. Dr. Dre)
“The Next Episode” is a hip-hop song by Dr. Dre, featuring Snoop Dogg, Kurupt, and Nate Dogg. It was released in 2000 as the third single from Dr. Dre’s second studio album, “2001” (also known as “The Chronic 2001”).
The song is known for its catchy and iconic beat produced by Dr. Dre himself, along with Mel-Man. The track samples David McCallum’s “The Edge” and features a memorable synth melody, making it instantly recognizable. Nate Dogg provides the smooth hook with the famous line “Smoke weed every day,” while Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Kurupt deliver verses showcasing their lyrical prowess.
The lyrics of “The Next Episode” touch on various themes, including the West Coast lifestyle, success, and the artists’ prowess in the rap game. The song’s title suggests a continuation or sequel to Dr. Dre’s earlier work, particularly his debut album “The Chronic.”
The accompanying music video complements the song’s laid-back and celebratory vibe, featuring scenes of a party with various guests and artists.
“The Next Episode” became a major hit, reaching high chart positions and becoming a staple in hip-hop playlists. Its memorable production and collaboration between Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Kurupt, and Nate Dogg contributed to its enduring popularity in the hip-hop community.
10. “Lodi Dodi”
“Lodi Dodi” is a track by Snoop Doggy Dogg, now known as Snoop Dogg, from his debut studio album, “Doggystyle,” released in 1993. The song is a reinterpretation of Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick’s “La Di Da Di,” with Snoop Dogg adding his own flavor and lyrics.
In “Lodi Dodi,” Snoop Dogg tells a laid-back and humorous narrative, incorporating his own experiences and storytelling style. The lyrics touch on various aspects of Snoop’s life, including partying, socializing, and his distinctive approach to the rap game. The chorus features the catchy lines “Lodi Dodi, we like to party; we don’t cause trouble, we don’t bother nobody.”
The track’s production, handled by Dr. Dre, maintains a funky and G-funk aesthetic. Dr. Dre’s signature beats, characterized by smooth synthesizers and deep basslines, complement Snoop Dogg’s delivery and contribute to the overall West Coast hip-hop sound of the early ’90s.
“Lodi Dodi” became a standout track on the “Doggystyle” album, showcasing Snoop Dogg’s ability to put his own spin on classic hip-hop tracks while maintaining his unique style. The song has since become a classic in its own right, recognized for its infectious groove and Snoop Dogg’s charismatic delivery.