Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. on October 20, 1971, in Long Beach, California, is an influential American rapper, songwriter, and actor. He gained prominence in the early 1990s with his debut album, *Doggystyle* (1993), which was produced by Dr. Dre and became a classic in the genre. Known for his laid-back, smooth flow and charismatic persona, Snoop Dogg has been a significant figure in West Coast hip-hop and has maintained a successful career across multiple decades.
Snoop’s musical style blends gangsta rap with funk and soul influences, and he’s known for hits like “Gin and Juice,” “Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” (with Dr. Dre), and “Drop It Like It’s Hot.” Beyond music, Snoop Dogg has ventured into acting, television hosting, and entrepreneurship, including his own cannabis brand and various other business ventures. His influence extends beyond music, making him a prominent and recognizable figure in pop culture.
1. Gin and Juice
“Gin and Juice” is a song by Snoop Dogg, released on January 18, 1994, as the second single from his debut album, *Doggystyle*. The track is a quintessential example of West Coast gangsta rap and is known for its laid-back, catchy vibe and Snoop Dogg’s smooth delivery.
The song’s lyrics describe a carefree party atmosphere, with Snoop Dogg rapping about having a good time with friends, sipping gin and juice, and enjoying life. The track is celebrated for its memorable chorus and its blend of humor and storytelling, capturing the essence of the 1990s hip-hop scene.
“Gin and Juice” was a major commercial success, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Snoop Dogg’s signature hits. The music video, featuring a lively house party and a relaxed, fun aesthetic, further enhanced the song’s popularity and remains a classic representation of Snoop Dogg’s early career.
2. Still D.R.E.
“Still D.R.E.” is a song by Dr. Dre featuring Snoop Dogg, released on October 13, 1999, as the lead single from Dr. Dre’s album *2001*. The track is renowned for its iconic piano riff and its classic West Coast hip-hop sound.
The song features Dr. Dre rapping about his return to the music scene and his continued dominance in the industry, with Snoop Dogg contributing a memorable verse. The lyrics celebrate Dr. Dre’s legacy, his influence on the rap genre, and his enduring presence in the industry.
“Still D.R.E.” was a commercial success, reaching number 93 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a staple in hip-hop. The music video, directed by Hype Williams, features a stylish and cinematic depiction of Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg cruising through Los Angeles, further solidifying the song’s status as a classic in the genre.
3. Drop It Like It’s Hot
“Drop It Like It’s Hot” is a song by Snoop Dogg featuring Pharrell Williams, released on October 18, 2004, as the lead single from Snoop Dogg’s album *R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece*. The track features a minimalist, club-oriented beat and Pharrell Williams’s distinctive vocal hook.
The song’s lyrics are focused on partying and dance, with Snoop Dogg delivering his signature laid-back flow while Pharrell provides a catchy, repetitive chorus. The track was praised for its innovative production and became a major commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts worldwide.
The music video, directed by Hype Williams, features vibrant visuals and a stylish, high-energy party atmosphere, complementing the song’s infectious groove. “Drop It Like It’s Hot” remains one of Snoop Dogg’s biggest hits and a notable track in the mid-2000s hip-hop scene.
4. Beautiful
“Beautiful” is a song by Snoop Dogg, released on January 21, 2003, as the lead single from his album *Paid tha Cost to Be da Boss*. The track features a smooth, laid-back vibe and is produced by The Neptunes, with Pharrell Williams providing the catchy chorus.
The song’s lyrics reflect Snoop Dogg’s appreciation for beautiful women and his desire to have a good time. It combines elements of West Coast rap with a more accessible, mainstream sound, showcasing Snoop’s distinctive flow and charisma.
“Beautiful” was well-received for its catchy melody and its blend of rap and R&B influences. It reached number six on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of Snoop Dogg’s notable hits. The music video features vibrant and stylish visuals, further emphasizing the song’s feel-good, celebratory tone.
5. Who Am I? (What’s My Name?)
“Who Am I? (What’s My Name?)” is a song by Snoop Dogg, released on October 13, 1993, as the lead single from his debut album, *Doggystyle*. The track features a catchy, laid-back beat and is known for its iconic hook and Snoop Dogg’s smooth delivery.
The song’s lyrics introduce Snoop Dogg’s persona, blending braggadocio with a sense of fun and charisma. It was one of the defining tracks of early ’90s West Coast hip-hop and played a significant role in establishing Snoop Dogg’s career.
“Who Am I? (What’s My Name?)” was a major commercial success, reaching number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Snoop Dogg’s signature hits. The music video, featuring a lively and colorful depiction of Snoop Dogg’s neighborhood and a relaxed party atmosphere, further contributed to the track’s enduring popularity.
6. Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang
“Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” is a song by Dr. Dre featuring Snoop Dogg, released on November 19, 1992, as the lead single from Dr. Dre’s debut solo album, *The Chronic*. The track is a quintessential example of West Coast gangsta rap and is widely recognized for its smooth, funky production and iconic beat.
The song features a memorable G-funk sound, characterized by its laid-back tempo and synthesizer melodies, and it showcases Dr. Dre’s and Snoop Dogg’s signature styles. The lyrics celebrate the duo’s lifestyle and their impact on the rap scene, emphasizing their dominance and influence in the industry.
“Nuthin’ but a ‘G’ Thang” was a major commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the defining tracks of the early ’90s hip-hop era. The music video, directed by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, features a vibrant, party-oriented aesthetic that complements the song’s celebratory tone.
7. The Next Episode
“The Next Episode” is a song by Dr. Dre featuring Snoop Dogg, released on October 22, 2000, as a single from Dr. Dre’s album *2001*. The track is notable for its iconic and laid-back production, which features a prominent sample of David McCallum’s “The Edge.”
The song’s lyrics continue the themes of West Coast gangsta rap, celebrating Dr. Dre’s return to the music scene and his influence on hip-hop. Snoop Dogg’s guest verse adds to the track’s appeal, contributing to its smooth, confident vibe.
“The Next Episode” was a commercial success, reaching number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a staple in hip-hop clubs and radio. The music video, directed by Philip Atwell, features a stylized, high-energy narrative that complements the song’s party atmosphere and Dr. Dre’s dominant presence in the genre.
8. Tha Shiznit
“Tha Shiznit” is a song by Snoop Dogg, released on October 12, 1993, as a single from his debut album, *Doggystyle*. The track is known for its laid-back, funky production and Snoop Dogg’s distinctive smooth flow.
The song features a classic West Coast G-funk sound with a groovy beat, synthesizer melodies, and relaxed tempo. The lyrics showcase Snoop Dogg’s lyrical prowess and his confident, charismatic delivery, celebrating his rise in the rap game and his style.
“Tha Shiznit” was well-received by fans and critics for its quintessential West Coast vibe and Snoop Dogg’s engaging performance. The track became a notable hit from *Doggystyle* and contributed to Snoop Dogg’s early success in the hip-hop scene. The music video, featuring a playful and energetic depiction of Snoop Dogg’s lifestyle, further emphasized the song’s relaxed and fun atmosphere.
9. Signs
“Signs” is a song by Snoop Dogg featuring Charlie Wilson, released on August 27, 2005, as the lead single from Snoop Dogg’s album *R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece*. The track features a smooth, soulful production with a prominent sample of Charlie Wilson’s classic sound, combined with Snoop Dogg’s distinctive rap style.
The song’s lyrics celebrate Snoop Dogg’s success and his influence on the music industry, with a focus on enjoying life and celebrating good times. Charlie Wilson’s chorus adds a classic R&B touch to the track, blending seamlessly with Snoop’s laid-back flow.
“Signs” was well-received for its catchy melody and the collaboration between Snoop Dogg and Charlie Wilson. It reached number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a notable hit in the mid-2000s. The music video features vibrant, party-themed visuals that reflect the song’s celebratory mood.
10. Young, Wild & Free
“Youth, Wild & Free” is a song by Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa featuring Bruno Mars, released on October 11, 2011, as a single from the soundtrack of the film *Mac & Devin Go to High School*. The track is characterized by its upbeat, feel-good vibe and combines elements of rap and pop.
The song’s lyrics celebrate a carefree lifestyle and the joys of living in the moment, with Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa rapping about enjoying life and having fun. Bruno Mars provides the catchy chorus, which adds a melodic and laid-back touch to the track.
“Youth, Wild & Free” was a commercial success, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts in several countries. The music video features a colorful, party-oriented aesthetic, reflecting the song’s playful and carefree spirit.