Snoop Dogg (real name — Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr.) is an American rapper, producer, actor, and entrepreneur, recognized as one of the most iconic figures in the history of hip-hop. Born on October 20, 1971 in Long Beach, California, USA, his career spans more than three decades, during which he became a symbol of gangsta rap and a leading voice of West Coast culture.
Early Life
Calvin Broadus grew up in a modest neighborhood in Long Beach. His father left the family soon after his birth, and he was raised by his mother, Beverly Tate. The nickname “Snoop” was given to him by his mother because he resembled the comic strip character Snoopy.
From a young age, Calvin was passionate about music — he played piano and sang in a church choir. Later, he began rapping and recording his first tracks with friends under the name Snoop Doggy Dogg.
Career Beginnings
A turning point came when he met Dr. Dre. The legendary producer heard Snoop’s demo tape and invited him to collaborate on the soundtrack for the film “Deep Cover” (1992), followed by Dr. Dre’s landmark album “The Chronic”. These projects became defining moments of the West Coast rap era.
Breakthrough and Success
In 1993, Snoop Dogg released his debut album “Doggystyle”, produced by Dr. Dre. It became the first debut album to debut at #1 on the Billboard 200, selling over 800,000 copies in its first week. Singles like “Gin and Juice” and “Who Am I (What’s My Name)?” became genre-defining classics.
The album solidified Snoop’s status as a leader of hip-hop and a symbol of the West Coast sound. His smooth flow and instantly recognizable voice made him a global icon.
Career Development and Key Albums
- “Doggystyle” (1993) — a G-funk classic.
- “Tha Doggfather” (1996) — his second album, released after Dr. Dre’s departure from Death Row Records.
- “Paid Tha Cost To Be Da Boss” (2002) — includes the hit “Beautiful” featuring Pharrell Williams.
- “R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece” (2004) — featuring the global hit “Drop It Like It’s Hot”.
- “Ego Trippin’” (2008) — a more experimental and melodic release.
- “Bush” (2015, produced by Pharrell Williams)
- “Algorithm” (2021) — a modern sound featuring Mount Westmore, Method Man, Ice Cube, and others.
- “Missionary” (expected 2025) — a collaborative project with Dr. Dre, described as a spiritual sequel to “Doggystyle.”
Hits and Collaborations
Snoop Dogg has worked with numerous artists across genres, creating timeless hits:
- “Drop It Like It’s Hot” (feat. Pharrell Williams)
- “Beautiful” (feat. Pharrell)
- “Signs” (feat. Justin Timberlake)
- “Young, Wild & Free” (feat. Wiz Khalifa, Bruno Mars)
- “California Gurls” (feat. Katy Perry)
- “2 Of Amerikaz Most Wanted” (feat. Tupac Shakur)
- “Gin and Juice”
- “Peaches N Cream” (feat. Charlie Wilson)
Versatility and Style
Snoop Dogg is known for his adaptability and willingness to explore new genres. He ventured into reggae as Snoop Lion (“Reincarnated”, 2013), gospel (“Bible of Love”, 2018), and afrobeats (“Jam Session”, 2022).
Live Performances and Festivals
Snoop performs on the world’s biggest stages, including Coachella, Rolling Loud, Glastonbury, and the Super Bowl Halftime Show (2022), where he appeared alongside Dr. Dre, Eminem, 50 Cent, Kendrick Lamar, and Mary J. Blige — a performance hailed as one of the greatest in Super Bowl history.
Film and Television
Snoop Dogg has appeared in “Training Day” (2001), “Starsky & Hutch” (2004), “Soul Plane” (2004), and has voiced animated characters. He also hosts his own shows, including “Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Dinner Party” and the documentary series “Coach Snoop”.
Entrepreneurship
- Founder of Death Row Records 2.0 (acquired in 2022);
- Creator of the cannabis brand Leafs by Snoop;
- Founder of Doggy Style Records;
- Investor in the metaverse, NFT, and sports (including FaZe Clan);
- Owner of the youth football league Snoop Youth Football League.
Personal Life
Snoop is married to his high school sweetheart, Shante Taylor, and they have three children. He is active in philanthropy, supporting youth, education, and sports programs.
Awards and Recognition
- Over 40 million albums sold worldwide;
- More than 30 Grammy nominations (including 2020s hits);
- A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (2018);
- Honored by BET Awards, MTV, and American Music Awards;
- Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2023 (as part of Death Row Legacy).
Interesting Facts
- As a child, Snoop sang in a church choir — a foundation for his gospel album.
- He promotes youth sports and coaches football teams.
- He has appeared on cooking shows and published a cookbook, “From Crook to Cook.”
- He shares a famous friendship with Martha Stewart, symbolizing cultural unity.
- In 2024, he partnered with Skims (Kim Kardashian’s brand) in a family-focused campaign.
Recent Work
In 2024–2025, Snoop Dogg is preparing his new album “Missionary” with Dr. Dre, expanding Death Row Records 2.0, mentoring young artists, and maintaining his status as a pop culture icon bridging generations.
Conclusion
Snoop Dogg is more than a musician — he’s a cultural phenomenon who transformed music, style, and business. His legacy represents freedom, creativity, and the continuous evolution of hip-hop.
