Snoop Dogg is no stranger to the spotlight, but his recent ventures have shown that the legendary rapper is embracing a new chapter in his career with a blend of respect, nostalgia, and fresh creativity. The 52-year-old hip-hop icon, now recognized as much for his cannabis empire as for his music, made waves at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, showcasing a side of himself that the world has grown to love—a little older, a little wiser, but still the same Snoop at heart.
Snoop’s transformation over the years has been nothing short of remarkable. From his early days as a controversial figure in the rap scene to becoming an adored cultural icon, his journey has been both shrewd and slow, culminating in moments like his appearance at the Olympic opening ceremony. While fans might have expected him to take a playful toke from the Olympic torch, Snoop instead presented himself as a respected elder statesman of hip-hop, even proudly taking on “grandpa’s duties.”
But the Olympics weren’t the only major event on Snoop’s calendar. In a recent interview with Complex, alongside long-time collaborator Dr. Dre, Snoop shared an unforgettable encounter with none other than Sir Paul McCartney. The two icons crossed paths after a performance in Los Angeles, with Snoop admitting that he was starstruck meeting the former Beatle for the first time. “I’ve never met him before, but I’m a fuckin’ fan of the Beatles,” Snoop revealed. The encounter was so impactful that Snoop, out of respect, instinctively began to put out his blunt before meeting McCartney—a rare gesture from the famously laid-back rapper.
The year also sees the return of one of hip-hop’s most iconic collaborations, as Dr. Dre announced he would be producing Snoop Dogg’s upcoming album, Missionary. This project marks the first time the two have teamed up for a full album since Snoop’s groundbreaking 1993 debut, Doggystyle, also produced by Dre. The anticipation is sky-high, especially after Dre hinted at an “amazing roster of artists” on the album, including the legendary Sting. Although Dre admitted he might have spilled the beans a bit too early, the excitement surrounding the release is palpable.
As Snoop Dogg continues to evolve, balancing his role as a cultural icon with his music career, it’s clear that he’s not just riding the wave of nostalgia. Instead, Snoop is crafting new memories, whether through surprise meetings with rock royalty, leading the charge at global events like the Olympics, or reuniting with old friends to create something fresh for the fans. One thing’s for sure: Snoop Dogg’s journey is far from over, and the best may still be yet to come.