Biography
Snoop Dogg, a legendary West Coast rapper, record producer, and actor, has been a major influence in hip-hop since the early 1990s. He first gained fame in 1992 after being discovered by Dr. Dre and featuring on Dre’s debut solo single, “Deep Cover,” followed by “The Chronic.” Known for his signature drawled delivery, melodic rhyming, and clever wordplay, Snoop Dogg’s music often reflects West Coast culture and social issues. Over his career, he has sold over 23 million albums in the U.S. and 35 million worldwide. Beyond music, he has built a successful career in film, television, and business, earning accolades such as an American Music Award, a Primetime Emmy, and 17 Grammy nominations.
Profile
- Name: Snoop Dogg
- Birth name: Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr.
- Birthday: October 20, 1971
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
- Height: 193 cm
- Instagram: @snoopdogg
- Twitter: @SnoopDogg
Career
Music
Snoop Dogg started his music career under the stage name Snoop Doggy Dogg after being introduced to Dr. Dre by Warren G. He signed with Future Shock Records, later known as Death Row Records, and gained early recognition by collaborating with Dr. Dre on the 1992 film Deep Cover soundtrack and Dre’s debut album The Chronic. This exposure set the stage for his first album, Doggystyle (1993), which became a commercial and critical success, defining the West Coast G-funk sound. Hit singles like “Who Am I (What’s My Name)?” and “Gin and Juice” topped the charts, solidifying Snoop’s place in hip-hop.
Despite his success, controversy surrounded him due to gangsta rap’s explicit themes, and he faced legal trouble in 1993 when he was charged with first-degree murder. Though acquitted in 1996, the case influenced him to reconsider his gang-related lifestyle. In 1994, a short film “Murder Was the Case,” inspired by the trial, was released along with a soundtrack. Around this time, he founded Doggy Style Records, a subsidiary of Death Row.
Following his acquittal, Snoop Dogg collaborated with Tupac Shakur on “2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted,” one of Tupac’s last songs before his tragic death in 1996. By the time Snoop Dogg’s second album, Tha Doggfather (1996), was released, Death Row Records was in turmoil due to Dr. Dre’s departure and Suge Knight’s legal troubles. The album, co-produced with Daz Dillinger and DJ Pooh, took a softer approach to G-funk but failed to match the success of Doggystyle. Frustrated by Death Row’s control over his music and unpaid royalties, Snoop refused to record further for the label, leading to tensions with Suge Knight.
In 1998, Snoop Dogg left Death Row and signed with Master P’s No Limit Records. His first album under the label, Da Game Is to Be Sold, Not to Be Told, was followed by No Limit Top Dogg (1999) and Tha Last Meal (2000), both of which performed well commercially. In 2002, he released Paid tha Cost to Be da Bo$$, featuring hits like Beautiful with Pharrell. By this time, he had moved away from his gangsta image, adopting a more playful, “pimp” persona.
Snoop Dogg signed with Geffen Records in 2004 and worked closely with The Neptunes for R&G (Rhythm & Gangsta): The Masterpiece, which included the hit “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” his first No.1 single. He also formed the group 213 with Warren G and Nate Dogg, releasing The Hard Way in 2004. His 2006 album, Tha Blue Carpet Treatment, received praise, featuring songs like “That’s That Shit” with R. Kelly.
Snoop Dogg made history in 2007 by releasing a single as a ringtone before its official release. He also entered Bollywood with the song “Singh is Kinng” in 2008. His next albums, Ego Trippin’ (2008) and Malice n Wonderland (2009), experimented with different sounds, with mixed commercial results.
In 2012, Snoop Dogg embraced reggae and rebranded himself as Snoop Lion, releasing “Reincarnated” in 2013. He also explored electronic music under the alias DJ Snoopadelic and formed the funk duo 7 Days of Funk with DāM-FunK.
In 2014, Snoop Dogg returned to his original rap persona and released Bush (2015), a funk-influenced album produced by Pharrell Williams. He followed with Coolaid (2016) and Neva Left (2017), which blended classic and modern hip-hop sounds.
Snoop Dogg later ventured into gospel music with Bible of Love (2018), showing his versatility as an artist. He returned to rap with I Wanna Thank Me (2019), an album celebrating his longevity in the industry. His 2021 release, From tha Streets 2 tha Suites, paid homage to his West Coast roots.
Beyond music, Snoop Dogg has built a media empire, starring in TV shows, launching his cannabis brand, and even becoming a part-owner of Death Row Records in 2022. His Super Bowl LVI halftime performance alongside Dr. Dre, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, and 50 Cent further cemented his legacy.
In 2023, he continued expanding his influence, engaging in business ventures, NFTs, and collaborations while maintaining his status as a hip-hop icon.
Film and Television
Snoop Dogg has had an extensive career in film and television, taking on various roles in both leading and supporting capacities. He starred in “The Wash” alongside Dr. Dre and played the main role in the horror film “Bones.” In 2012, he co-starred with Wiz Khalifa in “Mac & Devin Go to High School,” a film that has a planned sequel. His supporting and cameo appearances include well-known movies such as “Half Baked,” “Training Day,” “Starsky & Hutch,” and “Brüno.”
On television, Snoop Dogg headlined three shows: the sketch-comedy series “Doggy Fizzle Televizzle,” the variety show “Dogg After Dark,” and the reality show “Snoop Dogg’s Father Hood,” which featured his family. He made guest appearances in episodes of King of the Hill, Las Vegas, Monk, and the animated series Robot Chicken. He also had a recurring role in “One Life to Live” and appeared in “Epic Rap Battles of History as Moses.”
His presence extended to Comedy Central Roasts, where he took part in the celebrity roast events for Flavor Flav, Donald Trump, and Justin Bieber. He also made cameo appearances in shows like “The L Word,” “Weeds,” “Entourage,” “I Get That a Lot,” “Monk,” and “The Price Is Right.”
Directorial and Production Work
In 2000, Snoop Dogg ventured into directing, using the alias “Michael J. Corleone” to helm Snoop Dogg’s Doggystyle, an adult film that won Top Selling Release of the Year at the 2002 AVN Awards. He later directed “Snoop Dogg’s Hustlaz: Diary of a Pimp” under the name Snoop Scorsese.
In 2005, he established his own film production company, Snoopadelic Films, with its debut release, “Boss’n Up,” inspired by his album R&G. The film starred Lil Jon and Trina.
Collaborations and Hosting Roles
In 2016, Snoop Dogg teamed up with Martha Stewart for the VH1 show “Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Dinner Party,” which featured cooking, games, and musical guests. Their partnership extended to a Super Bowl LI commercial for T-Mobile and a collaborative fried chicken recipe.
From 2017 to 2019, he hosted a revival of “The Joker’s Wild,” first on TBS and later on TNT. He also authored a cookbook, From Crook to Cook, in 2018, which became a bestseller after his 2022 Super Bowl and Puppy Bowl appearances.
Expanding into Wine and Gaming
In 2020, Snoop Dogg launched Snoop Cali Red, his first wine release in collaboration with the Australian brand 19 Crimes. The bottle features his face on the label. That same year, he provided live commentary for Mike Tyson vs. Roy Jones Jr., entertaining audiences with his colorful reactions.
His influence extended to the gaming world as well. In 2022, he became a playable character in “Call of Duty: Vanguard” and “Call of Duty: Warzone.” By 2024, he was featured in “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3” and headlined Fortnite Festival, where his songs were included in the game.
Business Ventures
In 2021, Snoop Dogg took on a leadership role at Def Jam Recordings as an executive creative and strategic consultant, focusing on artist development. Later that year, he announced the signing of rapper Benny the Butcher.
In early 2022, he made headlines by acquiring Death Row Records, the label that launched his career, and released his 20th album, BODR, under its revived brand.
Wrestling and Sports Entertainment
A lifelong wrestling fan, Snoop Dogg has participated in multiple WWE events. In 2008, he served as Master of Ceremonies at WrestleMania XXIV and made appearances on WWE Raw. In 2016, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame and later performed at WrestleMania 32, accompanying his cousin Sasha Banks to the ring.
In 2021, he guest-starred on AEW Dynamite, performing a wrestling move known as the “Frog Splash.” He later co-hosted WrestleMania 39 with The Miz, where he unexpectedly had to step in and finish a match after Shane McMahon suffered an injury. His improvisation earned praise from WWE executives.
Entrepreneurial Endeavors
Snoop Dogg has been a prolific entrepreneur and investor. In 2009, he was appointed creative chairman of Priority Records. In 2013, he launched the Snoopify app, allowing users to add stickers of his face and accessories to their photos, generating $30,000 in weekly sales.
His ventures in the cannabis industry include launching the G-Pen vaporizer in 2013, investing in cannabis delivery service Eaze in 2015, and founding his own brand, Leafs By Snoop, offering cannabis flowers, edibles, and concentrates. In 2024, he announced plans to open his first legal marijuana store, S.W.E.D., in Los Angeles.
In the tech and digital space, Snoop Dogg was part of Reddit’s 2014 funding round alongside investors like Marc Andreessen and Peter Thiel. He later launched Merry Jane, a media platform focused on cannabis culture.
In esports, he created the Gangsta Gaming League in 2019 and briefly joined FaZe Clan as a board member in 2022 before stepping down in 2023.
NFTs and Digital Expansion
Snoop Dogg has been involved in the NFT market, claiming in 2021 to be the anonymous collector known as Cozomo De’ Medici. Though some reports questioned this claim, he has remained an active participant in the NFT community, including his involvement with Fluf World.
Personal Life
Early Life
Snoop Dogg was born in Long Beach, California. His parents were Beverly Tate and Vernell Varnado, a Vietnam War veteran, singer, and mail carrier. However, his father left the family shortly after his birth, and Snoop was named after his stepfather, Calvin Cordozar Broadus Sr. His mother gave him the nickname “Snoopy” due to his resemblance to the Peanuts character. He was the second of three sons, and his mother and stepfather divorced in 1975.
Raised as a Baptist, Snoop Dogg was active in his church choir and played piano at Golgotha Trinity Baptist Church. His mother, a choir member, exposed him to R&B music, which influenced his musical journey. As a child, he took on various small jobs, such as selling candy and delivering newspapers. He was known to be a dedicated student and a passionate churchgoer.
The Truth About Snoop Dogg’s Brothers
Jerry Wesley Carter: The Private Brother
Snoop Dogg’s eldest half-brother, Jerry Wesley Carter, is related to him through their mother. Unlike Snoop, Jerry prefers a private life and stays away from social media. However, his brothers, Snoop and Bing Worthington Jr., occasionally share photos of him online. In 2013, Snoop posted a childhood picture with Jerry and their cousin, Jackie. In 2020, Jerry spent Memorial Day with Bing and their mother, with Bing noting that he and Jerry have very similar voices.
When their mother passed away in 2021, Jerry and Bing gifted Snoop a touching portrait of her. Bing shared the moment on Instagram, expressing how much they missed their mother. Snoop also acknowledged Jerry in a post, thanking him for always having his back. Unlike his famous brothers, Jerry did not pursue a career in music but worked for the United Steel Workers.
Bing Worthington Jr.: The Business-Minded Brother
Snoop Dogg’s younger half-brother, Bing Worthington Jr., has played an active role in Snoop’s career behind the scenes. In an interview with Vice, Bing shared that he helped conceptualize marketing projects, produced music for Snoop’s albums, and eventually became his tour manager. He also worked on the documentary Snoop Dogg: Raw ‘N Uncut Vol. 1.
Beyond his work with Snoop, Bing sought to establish himself independently. He merged Dogg Records with Urban Heat Legends to create his own record label. One of his proudest achievements was contributing to Snoop’s Eastsidaz album, where he wrote the song Be Thankful under pressure as a newcomer.
Despite being Snoop’s brother, Bing treats him as a business partner, pitching ideas professionally. He respects Snoop’s selective approach to projects, ensuring they align with his brand. Outside of the music industry, Bing is a passionate fan of the Buffalo Bills and frequently attends their games.
Marriage
Snoop Dogg married his high school sweetheart, Shante Taylor, on June 14, 1997. Though they filed for divorce in 2004, they later renewed their vows in 2008. The couple has three children: Cordé, Cordell, and Cori. He also has a son, Julian Corrie Broadus, from another relationship. Snoop is a grandfather and has six grandchildren. He is related to professional wrestler Mercedes Moné and the late Nate Dogg. He has also claimed ties to Brandy and Ray J, though Brandy expressed uncertainty about their familial connection.
Religious Beliefs
Raised as a Baptist, Snoop Dogg has explored multiple religious paths. In 2009, he joined the Nation of Islam, and in 2012, he converted to the Rastafari movement, adopting the name Snoop Lion and releasing a reggae album. However, his transformation faced criticism from the Rastafari community. In 2018, he released a gospel album, “Bible of Love,” and identified as a born-again Christian.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Snoop Dogg is committed to charitable efforts, founding the Snoop Youth Football League for at-risk youth, later expanding it to include special-needs athletes. He has donated extensively to various causes, including children’s hospitals and police reform initiatives. He has been vocal on social issues, supporting same-sex marriage and advocating for gun control. He has also expressed political views, endorsing candidates such as Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Joe Biden while at times criticizing Donald Trump—though he later expressed “respect” for him.
Cannabis Use
Snoop Dogg has long been associated with cannabis culture, making it a signature part of his image. Although he once claimed to quit smoking, he later admitted to consuming up to 80 blunts per day. In 2023, he jokingly announced he was “giving up smoke,” only to later clarify that it was part of an advertisement campaign for a smokeless product.
Net Worth
Snoop Dogg’s net worth in 2025 is $160 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Legal Issues
Early Legal Troubles (1989–1990)
Shortly after graduating high school in 1989, Snoop Dogg was arrested for cocaine possession. Over the next three years, he was frequently in and out of prison. In 1990, he was convicted of felony drug possession and possession for sale.
Weapons and Traffic Violations (1993–1997)
In July 1993, Snoop Dogg was pulled over for a traffic violation, during which police discovered a firearm in his car. In 1997, he pleaded guilty to handgun possession and was sentenced to community service, a $1,000 fine, and three years of probation.
Murder Trial and Acquittal (1993–1996)
While recording Doggystyle in August 1993, Snoop Dogg was charged with first-degree murder after his bodyguard, McKinley “Malik” Lee, fatally shot a gang member named Philip Woldermariam. Prosecutors claimed that Snoop was driving the car from which the fatal shot was fired. Both he and Lee were defended by attorney Johnnie Cochran and were acquitted on February 20, 1996. In 2024, the case was sealed.
Drug-Related Offenses (1998–2010)
Snoop Dogg faced multiple misdemeanor marijuana possession charges over the years, including arrests in Los Angeles (1998), Cleveland (2001), and Texas (2010).
Airport Incidents and Legal Consequences (2006–2007)
- Heathrow Airport (April 2006): After being denied entry to a British Airways lounge, Snoop Dogg and his entourage got into an altercation with police, resulting in seven officers being injured. He was arrested and later released on bail.
- John Wayne Airport (September 2006): Airport security found a collapsible police baton in Snoop’s carry-on. He claimed it was a prop for a performance, but he was sentenced to probation and community service.
- Bob Hope Airport (October 2006): After being stopped for a traffic violation, he was arrested for gun possession and suspected drug transportation.
- Burbank Arrest (November 2006): Following an appearance on The Tonight Show, he was arrested again for possessing marijuana, cocaine, and a firearm. Two of his entourage members, identified as gang affiliates, were also taken into custody.
- Legal Consequences (April 2007): After pleading no contest to drug and gun possession charges, Snoop Dogg received a three-year suspended sentence, probation, and 800 hours of community service. He was also banned from hiring employees with criminal records or gang affiliations.
Assault Allegation (2005)
At a 2005 concert in Washington, a fan named Richard Monroe Jr. sued Snoop Dogg, rapper The Game, and Tha Dogg Pound, claiming he was beaten unconscious by security after attempting to go onstage. The lawsuit sought $22 million in damages, citing negligence and emotional distress. Snoop was cleared of all charges in 2009.
Death Row Records Bankruptcy (2016)
In 2016, Snoop Dogg lost $2 million through the bankruptcy case of Death Row Records.
Sexual Assault Allegations
- 2005 Case: A makeup artist accused Snoop Dogg and others of drugging and assaulting her backstage at Jimmy Kimmel Live in 2003. Snoop had previously filed an extortion lawsuit against her. The case was settled in August 2005 with no money exchanged.
- 2022 Lawsuit: A woman sued Snoop Dogg for $10 million, alleging sexual assault after a 2013 concert in Anaheim. The lawsuit was initially withdrawn, then refiled in July 2022. In May 2023, the case was dismissed.
Travel Bans
- UK (2006–2010): Banned after Heathrow incident, later lifted.
- Australia (2007–2008): Denied entry due to criminal record; later granted a visa.
- Norway (2012–2014): Banned for two years after being caught with marijuana and undeclared cash.
Fun Facts
- His IQ is 147.
- He attended the same high school at the same time as Cameron Diaz.
- He was afraid of horses.
- Has six grandchildren.
- Enjoys watching the Showtime television series The Tudors (2007).
- Was friends with Kobe Bryant.
- Is a member of Rollin’ 20 Crip
- Snoop Dogg has created several alter egos throughout his career. The most notorious ones are known as “Snoop Lion,” “Snoopzilla,” and (most recently) “Snoop Todd.”
- Snoop isn’t the founder of his famed -izzle speak. He simply re-popularized the slang method throughout the hip-hop community.
- Snoop owns up to few famous relatives. His cousins include Brandy Norwood, Ray J, and Nate Dogg.
