“Money. Power. Respect.” These three words have significantly influenced hip-hop and symbolize the enduring legacy of Snoop Dogg. With the release of his 21st studio album, ‘Iz It a Crime?‘, the West Coast icon is not merely trying to stay relevant; he is asserting his lasting presence. By addressing former collaborators like Suge Knight and highlighting his wife on the album cover, as well as acknowledging younger artists and the symbolism of carrying the Olympic torch, this album feels less like a return and more like a bold declaration, shaped by experience, influence, and self-determination.
Snoop Dogg stands out among hip-hop artists for his remarkable longevity and adaptability. Over the course of three decades, he has navigated various eras, trends, and controversies while remaining true to himself. In 2024, he continues this journey with ‘Iz It a Crime?‘, a surprise release that arrives without a promotional build-up—a daring 21-track compilation that merges soul samples, street wisdom, and legacy-focused lyricism. The project is both forward-looking and deeply rooted in Black musical traditions.
Dropped via the revitalized Death Row Records and gamma, the album transcends mere creativity; it’s a reclamation. A reclamation of narrative. Of respect. Of the foundations that shaped him. Collaborations with Pharrell, Wiz Khalifa, LaRussell, and Sexyy Red further demonstrate Snoop’s lasting ability to connect across generations, engaging with the culture without compromising authenticity.
Beyond his musical contributions, Snoop’s transformation is remarkable. From reshaping the rap business to acting as a global peace ambassador, his influence reaches far beyond the recording studio. In an exclusive interview with CLASH over Zoom—Mimi in London and Snoop in Los Angeles—we discussed the significance of his legacy, the discipline of love, and what it takes to maintain his status as one of hip-hop's most recognizable figures after 30 years.
Mimi (CLASH): You opened the album with "Money. Power. Respect." These are the three words that influenced hip-hop, and your journey. Have you possessed all three simultaneously? If not, can you identify the times in your life you had money, then power, then respect, and when you felt you had all three?
Snoop Dogg: I had the money after No Limit, around ‘97 to ‘99. I gained power when I acquired Death Row Records. I earned respect when I initiated football programs for the community, particularly for children with special needs. That’s the true impact. It outlasts fame and fortune.
Mimi: What inspired the album title ‘Iz It a Crime?‘
Snoop: I was facing heavy scrutiny. People online were trying to cancel me after the crypto bowl. It felt like bots rather than real individuals. Instead of reacting online, I wanted to create a record. Music serves as my therapy. This album became my outlet to share untold stories—not just Snoop the icon but Snoop the man.
Mimi: The samples on this album evoke a feeling of relaxing at my uncle’s house, featuring Sade, Marvin Gaye, Aaliyah, George Clinton, The Fatback Band, Zapp, Earth, Wind & Fire, and even your collaborations with Dr. Dre. It feels like a sonic scrapbook steeped in Black music history. Hip-hop has always had a strong connection to sampling, though it often lacks the recognition it deserves. Were you advising producers on what to sample?
Snoop: Nah, it’s all about the energy. We just vibe. When the right beat enters the room, we know it. You feel it before you even hear it. The producers—Battlecat, Rick Rock, Nottz—they understand me and what I appreciate, which is why they delivered what I needed. This project felt spiritual, digging deep into the roots. The producers brought magic, and we worked off the energy. If it felt right, we knew it was meant to be. That’s the beauty of the process, pure and soulful.
Mimi: What’s your favorite track on the album?
Snoop: “Can’t Get Enough” with Jane Handcock. I realized I hadn’t worked with her yet, and she sent me that track with just her vocals. I asked her where I fit in, and she said the first verse was mine. I did my part, and now it’s one of my most personal songs dedicated to my wife.
Mimi: The album cover features your wife prominently. Why was that important to you?
Snoop: She’s been by my side for 30 years; it only makes sense for her to be in the forefront. That’s true king and queen energy. I didn’t want to hide her; I wanted her to stand with me. That cover embodies Black love, loyalty, and partnership. We inspire couples because we’ve remained together.
Mimi: You
“Money. Power. Respect.” These three words have significantly influenced hip-hop and remain integral to Snoop Dogg's enduring legacy. With the release of his 21st