Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. on October 20, 1971, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, and actor. He emerged as one of the most prominent figures in West Coast hip hop during the early 1990s and has since become one of the best-selling and most influential rap artists of all time.
Snoop Dogg first gained fame with his debut album, “Doggystyle,” released in 1993. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and became one of the fastest-selling albums in history, cementing Snoop Dogg’s status as a rap superstar. The album spawned hit singles like “What’s My Name?” and “Gin and Juice,” which became anthems of the West Coast hip-hop scene.
Throughout his career, Snoop Dogg has released numerous successful albums and singles, exploring various musical styles and collaborating with artists from different genres. He is known for his laid-back delivery, distinctive flow, and charismatic persona, which have made him a beloved figure in the world of hip hop.
In addition to his music career, Snoop Dogg has also ventured into acting, appearing in films like “Training Day” (2001), “Starsky & Hutch” (2004), and “Soul Plane” (2004). He has also appeared in television shows and has lent his voice to various animated series and films.
Snoop Dogg’s influence extends beyond music and entertainment. He is known for his advocacy of marijuana legalization and his philanthropic efforts in communities across the United States. He has also ventured into business, launching his own line of cannabis products and partnering with brands in various industries.
With his distinctive style, enduring popularity, and contributions to hip hop culture, Snoop Dogg has solidified his place as one of the most iconic and influential figures in the history of rap music.
1. Gin and Juice
“Gin and Juice” is a song by American rapper Snoop Dogg, released in 1994 as the second single from his debut studio album, “Doggystyle.” The song is one of Snoop Dogg’s most iconic tracks and has become a quintessential anthem of West Coast hip-hop.
“Gin and Juice” is a laid-back and funky hip-hop track with a smooth groove and infectious vibe. The song’s production features a sample from “Let’s Get Small” by comedian George Clinton, which adds to its funky and retro feel. Lyrically, “Gin and Juice” is a party anthem, with Snoop Dogg rapping about kicking back, relaxing, and enjoying life with friends while sipping on gin and juice.
The song’s catchy chorus, which features the repeated line “Rollin’ down the street, smokin’ indo, sippin’ on gin and juice,” became an iconic hook and contributed to the song’s widespread popularity. Snoop Dogg’s laid-back delivery, witty lyrics, and charismatic persona make “Gin and Juice” a standout track on “Doggystyle” and one of his most beloved songs.
The music video for “Gin and Juice” features Snoop Dogg and his crew throwing a wild house party, with scenes of dancing, drinking, and having a good time. The video’s laid-back visuals and party atmosphere complement the song’s vibe and add to its appeal.
“Gin and Juice” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release and became one of the biggest hip-hop hits of the 1990s. It peaked at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topped the Hot Rap Songs chart, solidifying Snoop Dogg’s status as a rap superstar.
With its infectious groove, catchy chorus, and laid-back vibe, “Gin and Juice” remains one of Snoop Dogg’s most iconic and enduring songs, continuing to resonate with listeners as a timeless anthem of West Coast hip-hop culture.
2. Still D.R.E.
“Still D.R.E.” is a song by American rapper Dr. Dre, featuring fellow rapper Snoop Dogg. It was released in 1999 as the lead single from Dr. Dre’s second studio album, “2001.” The song is a West Coast hip-hop track with a funky beat and smooth production.
“Still D.R.E.” features Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg rapping about their success and influence in the rap game, with lyrics that convey a sense of confidence and swagger. The song’s chorus, with Snoop Dogg rapping “Still, hittin’ them corners in them low-lows, girl,” has become a popular catchphrase.
The music video for “Still D.R.E.” features Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg in various settings, including a mansion and a lowrider car, with scenes of them performing and hanging out. The video’s stylish visuals and the artists’ charismatic performances add to the song’s laid-back vibe.
“Still D.R.E.” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning critical acclaim for its smooth production and the chemistry between Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. The song’s West Coast sound and infectious beat made it a standout track on “2001” and a fan favorite.
3. Drop It Like It’s Hot
“Drop It Like It’s Hot” is a song by American rapper Snoop Dogg, featuring American singer and producer Pharrell Williams. It was released in 2004 as the lead single from Snoop Dogg’s seventh studio album, “R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece.” The song is a hip-hop and G-funk track with a minimalist beat and catchy hooks.
“Drop It Like It’s Hot” features Snoop Dogg and Pharrell rapping and singing about their coolness and style, with lyrics that convey a sense of confidence and swagger. The song’s chorus, with Pharrell singing “Drop it like it’s hot, drop it like it’s hot,” has become a popular catchphrase.
The music video for “Drop It Like It’s Hot” features Snoop Dogg and Pharrell in various stylish and futuristic settings, with scenes of them performing and dancing. The video’s sleek visuals and the artists’ charismatic performances add to the song’s cool vibe.
“Drop It Like It’s Hot” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim for its infectious beat and catchy hooks. The song’s minimalist production and laid-back vibe made it a standout track on “R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece” and a fan favorite.
4. Beautiful
“Beautiful” is a song by American rapper Snoop Dogg, featuring guest vocals from Pharrell Williams and uncredited vocals by Charlie Wilson. Released in 2002 as the second single from Snoop Dogg’s sixth studio album, “Paid tha Cost to Be da Boss,” the song is known for its smooth and soulful vibe.
“Beautiful” is a hip-hop and R&B track with a laid-back groove and melodic hooks. The song’s production, handled by Pharrell Williams, features a lush arrangement of strings, piano, and funky basslines. Lyrically, “Beautiful” is a love song, with Snoop Dogg and Pharrell Williams expressing admiration for a woman’s physical and inner beauty.
Pharrell Williams delivers the song’s chorus, which features the repeated line “You’re beautiful, you’re beautiful,” adding a soulful and melodic touch to the track. Snoop Dogg’s verses are characterized by his smooth flow and romantic lyrics, while Charlie Wilson’s vocals provide additional depth and richness to the song’s harmonies.
The music video for “Beautiful” features Snoop Dogg and Pharrell Williams enjoying a luxurious lifestyle in various settings, including a mansion, a yacht, and a tropical island. The video’s vibrant visuals and stylish cinematography complement the song’s laid-back vibe and romantic themes.
“Beautiful” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release and became one of Snoop Dogg’s most successful singles. It peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topped the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, solidifying its status as a classic hip-hop and R&B collaboration.
With its smooth production, melodic hooks, and romantic lyrics, “Beautiful” remains one of Snoop Dogg’s most beloved and enduring songs, continuing to resonate with listeners as a timeless anthem of love and appreciation.
5. Who Am I? (What’s My Name?)
“Who Am I? (What’s My Name?)” is a song by American rapper Snoop Doggy Dogg, later known as Snoop Dogg. It was released in 1993 as the lead single from his debut album, “Doggystyle.” The song is a G-funk and gangsta rap track with a funky beat and smooth flow.
“Who Am I? (What’s My Name?)” features Snoop Dogg rapping about his identity and his reputation as a rapper, with lyrics that convey a sense of confidence and bravado. The song’s chorus, with Snoop Dogg repeating “Snoop Doggy, Doggy, Doggy Dogg,” has become one of his signature phrases.
The music video for “Who Am I? (What’s My Name?)” features Snoop Dogg in various settings, including a house party and a lowrider car, with scenes of him performing and hanging out with friends. The video’s laid-back visuals and Snoop Dogg’s charismatic performance add to the song’s cool vibe.
“Who Am I? (What’s My Name?)” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning critical acclaim for its smooth flow and catchy hooks. The song’s G-funk sound and Snoop Dogg’s laid-back delivery made it a standout track on “Doggystyle” and a fan favorite.
6. Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang
“Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” is a classic hip-hop song by American rapper Dr. Dre, featuring vocals from fellow rapper Snoop Dogg. Released in 1992 as the lead single from Dr. Dre’s debut solo album, “The Chronic,” the song is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop tracks of all time and a defining anthem of West Coast hip-hop.
“Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” is characterized by its laid-back groove, funky bassline, and smooth production. The song’s production, crafted by Dr. Dre himself, features a sample from Leon Haywood’s “I Want’a Do Something Freaky to You,” which provides the track with its signature sound. Lyrically, “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” is an ode to the gangsta lifestyle, with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg rapping about their experiences growing up in Compton, California, and the realities of street life.
The song’s chorus, which features the repeated line “It’s like this and like that and like this and uh,” became an iconic hook and contributed to the song’s widespread popularity. Snoop Dogg’s smooth flow and laid-back delivery complement Dr. Dre’s gritty verses, creating a perfect blend of style and substance.
The music video for “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” features Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg in various scenes, including a backyard barbecue, a lowrider car show, and a house party. The video’s laid-back visuals and West Coast aesthetic capture the essence of the song and its portrayal of California street culture.
“Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” received widespread critical acclaim upon its release and became a massive commercial success. It peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topped the Hot Rap Songs chart, solidifying Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s status as rap superstars.
With its infectious groove, memorable chorus, and iconic production, “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” remains one of the most beloved and influential hip-hop songs of all time, continuing to resonate with listeners as a timeless anthem of West Coast hip-hop culture.
7. The Next Episode
“The Next Episode” is a song by American rapper Dr. Dre, released in 2000 as the third single from his second studio album, “2001.” The song features Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, and Kurupt, and it is a hip-hop and G-funk track with a catchy beat and smooth production.
“The Next Episode” features Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, and Kurupt rapping about their success and lifestyle, with lyrics that convey a sense of confidence and swagger. The song’s chorus, with Nate Dogg singing “Smoke weed every day,” has become a popular catchphrase.
The music video for “The Next Episode” features Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg, and Kurupt in various settings, including a mansion and a lowrider car, with scenes of them performing and hanging out. The video’s stylish visuals and the artists’ charismatic performances add to the song’s cool vibe.
“The Next Episode” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning critical acclaim for its smooth production and the chemistry between Dr. Dre and the featured artists. The song’s G-funk sound and catchy hooks made it a standout track on “2001” and a fan favorite.
8. Tha Shiznit
“Tha Shiznit” is a song by American rapper Snoop Dogg, featured on his debut studio album, “Doggystyle,” released in 1993. Produced by Dr. Dre, who also served as the executive producer of the album, “Tha Shiznit” is known for its laid-back flow, funky beat, and Snoop Dogg’s smooth delivery.
The track is characterized by its G-funk sound, a subgenre of hip-hop that emerged from the West Coast during the early 1990s. G-funk is known for its use of synthesizers, funk samples, and slow, groovy beats, and “Tha Shiznit” encapsulates these elements perfectly.
Lyrically, “Tha Shiznit” is a showcase of Snoop Dogg’s lyrical prowess and charismatic persona. The song’s lyrics touch on themes of partying, smoking weed, and living the high life, reflecting the carefree attitude of the West Coast hip-hop scene at the time.
“Tha Shiznit” received critical acclaim upon its release and is considered one of the standout tracks on “Doggystyle.” Its infectious groove and Snoop Dogg’s effortless flow helped solidify his status as one of the most prominent figures in hip-hop.
The song’s legacy extends beyond its initial release, as it has been sampled and referenced by numerous artists in the years since. “Tha Shiznit” remains a classic example of West Coast hip-hop and continues to be celebrated by fans of the genre for its timeless sound and Snoop Dogg’s iconic performance.
9. Signs
“Signs” is a song by Canadian rapper Drake, released in 2017. The song was initially released as a promotional single for the Louis Vuitton Spring-Summer 2018 fashion show, where Drake also premiered it. The track features a relaxed vibe with a dancehall influence, which was a departure from Drake’s usual style at the time.
In “Signs,” Drake sings about a romantic interest and the signs that indicate her interest in him. The lyrics explore themes of love, attraction, and the excitement of new relationships. The song’s laid-back rhythm and catchy melody make it a smooth and easy listen, suitable for both casual listening and dancing.
“Signs” received positive reviews from critics, who praised its infectious melody and Drake’s delivery. The song was later included as a bonus track on the digital edition of Drake’s mixtape, “More Life.”
10. Young, Wild & Free
“Young, Wild & Free” is a song by American rappers Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa, featuring singer Bruno Mars. It was released in 2011 as the lead single from the soundtrack for the film “Mac & Devin Go to High School,” in which Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa star.
“Young, Wild & Free” is a hip-hop and pop-rap track with a laid-back vibe and a catchy chorus. The song’s lyrics celebrate youth and living life to the fullest, with Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, and Bruno Mars singing about having fun, partying, and enjoying the moment.
The music video for “Young, Wild & Free” features Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa in various high school settings, including classrooms and hallways, with scenes of them performing and hanging out with friends. The video’s playful visuals and the artists’ energetic performances add to the song’s carefree vibe.
“Young, Wild & Free” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning critical acclaim for its catchy melody and feel-good lyrics. The song’s upbeat sound and positive message made it a standout track on the “Mac & Devin Go to High School” soundtrack and a fan favorite.
Edward Tomlin 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.
