Snoop Dogg Reflects on His Journey from Gangsta Persona to National Treasure
- Snoop Dogg, the 52-year-old American rapper, has undergone a gradual transformation into a devoted grandfather.
- His journey reflects a blend of personal growth while maintaining his cultural relevance in the music industry.
- As Snoop embraces his new role, questions arise about how he evolved from one of hip-hop's most recognized figures to a family-oriented individual.
In a candid reflection on his life, Snoop Dogg recounted the dangers he faced early in his career, including instances where he was shot at and moments when he possessed a gun but refrained from using it due to fear for his life. This "gangsta" image was prominent when he first gained fame in 1992 as a guest rapper on Dr. Dre's debut solo single, "Deep Cover." The tragic death of Woldemariam shortly before the release of Snoop's debut album brought renewed attention to his single "Murder Was the Case," which he described as prophetic, despite not having experienced the events he rapped about at the time. Snoop Dogg's evolution as an artist became evident as he distanced himself from the hardcore themes of his early work. He noted that Death Row Records was dissatisfied with his shift in tone, as he sought to express a more authentic self following a murder case. In a 2019 interview, he emphasized the importance of personal growth, stating, “Me being me is all I know how to do,” and acknowledged his commitment to family life, which has shaped his artistic direction. This transformation culminated in Snoop Dogg's recent role as a bearer of the Olympic torch at the Paris Games, symbolizing his status as a national treasure. His participation not only showcased his journey but also allowed him to engage with audiences through humorous commentary during NBC's coverage of the events. Journalist Williams highlighted Snoop's arc as a valuable lesson for other celebrities navigating their careers.