25 Years of Doggystyle

Snoop Dogg has the kind of career longevity that most artists dream of. November 23, 2018 marked the 25th anniversary of his most prolific album to date, Doggystyle. This comes right off the heels of him recently receiving his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Although his subject matter may have been gangster related on his breakthrough debut, his delivery was calm and smooth. In fact, his demeanor sounded like he could care less if you even paid attention. Millions of people did in fact pay attention. His style of rap permanently changed the face of Hip Hop and Pop music. 

“Gin and Juice” still insights pandemonium if it comes on in a club today. Thanks to the production of Dr. Dre and the syrupy flow of Snoop Dogg, they made an irresistible sound that couldn’t be denied. The album kicked off strong with the funkadelic inspired “G Funk Intro”. “Tha Shiznit” and “Lodi Lodi” were fan favorites just like songs like the not so radio friendly, “Ain’t No Fun (If The Homies Can’t Have None)”. Mariah Carey even sampled the latter six years later on her hit “Heartbreaker Remix” with Da Brat and Missy Elliott. 

How could we go without mentioning “Who Am I (What’s My Name)?” By 1994, it was clear we would be knowing Snoop Doggy Dogg’s (before the name change) name for many years to come. That song still remains one of the most easily recognizable tracks in Hip Hop history. However, songs like “Murder Was The Case” squandered any suggestions of music industry gimmicks to sell records. He lived the life that he rhymed about. 

Doggystyle also launched a platform for then up and coming artists like the late Nate Dogg, Warren G and Tha Dogg Pound. Snoop Dogg has also consistently inserted comedic elements into his music. This is evident on tracks like the R&B/Soul infused “Doggy Dogg World”. All it takes is one trip down memory lane to remember the colossal influence of Doggystyle. Snoop Dogg is that cool uncle of Rap, whose style can’t be duplicated or imitated….even 25 years later.