Calvin Broadus entered the world on October 20, 1971, in Long Beach, California. His father, a Vietnam War veteran decorated for bravery, left his mother before Calvin’s birth, leaving him to be raised by his mother alone. She lovingly nicknamed him “Snoop,” as he reminded her of the cartoon dog, Snoopy.
Snoop’s grandfather worked tirelessly to steer him clear of gang life, but after his grandfather’s death when Snoop was 13, he stopped going to church. He joined a local American football team, which strengthened his friendships, yet as more and more of his friends drifted into gang life, he followed suit. By 15, he had become a drug dealer and was increasingly entangled in a world of violence and crime, though he maintains he was never formally part of a gang.
Snoop Dogg: From the Streets to Rap Legend
In June 1989, Snoop graduated from high school and experienced a short-lived period of calm. However, he soon returned to dealing drugs and was eventually caught selling to an undercover cop, leading to his arrest. This marked the beginning of a rough period filled with multiple drug-related arrests and frequent trips in and out of jail until 1991. These experiences left a lasting impact on him, shaping both his music and his view on life.
Upon his release, Snoop joined forces with his cousin Nate Dogg and friend Warren G to form the group “213,” marking his decision to pursue a career in music. Adopting the name “Snoop Doggy Dogg,” he recorded a demo tape that Warren G passed on to Dr. Dre. Impressed by Snoop’s talent, Dre featured him on his landmark album The Chronic in 1992. This collaboration launched Snoop’s career and brought him into the spotlight almost overnight.
From Hardship to Hip-Hop Pioneer
Backed by Dr. Dre, Snoop signed with Death Row Records and released his debut album, Doggystyle, in 1993. The album sold over five million copies, establishing Snoop as a fresh icon in the rap scene. However, the same year brought legal troubles. In July, he was arrested on a weapons charge after a gun was found in his car during a traffic stop. Then, in August, he was arrested again, this time on a murder charge linked to the shooting of a young rival gang member.
The incident began with a confrontation at Snoop’s apartment, where a young rival got into an argument with one of Snoop’s friends. The tension escalated as Snoop and his bodyguards pursued the rival, culminating in the rival’s fatal shooting in a park. Police accused Snoop and his bodyguard of involvement in the murder, leading to Snoop’s indictment. Throughout the trial, Snoop insisted he hadn’t fired the gun, and ultimately, he was acquitted of all charges.
After being acquitted in February 1996, Snoop began working on his second album, Tha Doggfather. During this time, he collaborated with Tupac on the track “2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted,” strengthening their bond. Tragically, on September 13, 1996, Tupac was shot and killed, and the loss left Snoop reeling from the deep shock and pain of his friend’s death.
As tensions with Dr. Dre grew, Snoop made the decision to break away from Death Row Records. Once his contract expired, he signed with No Limit Records in 1998, adopting the new name “Snoop Dogg” and marking the beginning of a new chapter. His music evolved, and his career flourished as he continued to make waves in the industry.
From Gang Life to Entertainment Icon
In 2000, Snoop directed the successful adult film Snoop Dogg’s Doggystyle, which went on to win an AVN Award, the adult industry’s equivalent of an Oscar. This marked a shift, as Snoop left behind his gangster image and fully embraced a “pimp” persona, cementing his dominant presence in both the music and entertainment worlds.
In 2005, Snoop founded the Snoop Youth Football League, an after-school initiative aimed at helping children stay committed to their goals. Over 18 years, more than 60,000 children have benefited from the program, and Snoop remains dedicated to giving back to his community.
In 2010, Snoop appeared as a featured artist on Katy Perry’s hit track “California Gurls,” which brought him even greater visibility.
In March 2011, following the death of his cousin Nate Dogg, who had suffered a stroke, Snoop took a moment to reflect on his life. During this time, he encountered reggae culture and Rastafarian philosophy in Jamaica. The teachings and spirit of the culture deeply resonated with him, especially the messages of “peace,” “love,” and “spiritual awakening” that Bob Marley championed. Feeling a connection to Marley’s soul, Snoop shed his “Snoop Dogg” persona and embarked on a new musical path as “Snoop Lion.”
Between 2016 and 2020, Snoop teamed up with Martha Stewart for a cooking show, and in 2022, he launched a children’s YouTube channel called “Doggyland.” These new projects further showcased his diverse talents and broadened his influence.
In 2018, Snoop received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, solidifying his legacy and the widespread recognition of his accomplishments. Once feared as a gang member and arrested on a murder charge, dubbed “America’s Most Dangerous Man,” Snoop Dogg’s rise to global superstardom is a powerful testament to his resilience and unbreakable spirit.
A Multifaceted Business Empire Expanding Beyond Entertainment
Snoop Dogg’s business ventures epitomize his multifaceted talent and lasting influence in the entertainment industry. In the cannabis sector, he launched his own brand, “Leafs by Snoop,” and runs the investment firm “Casa Verde Capital.” His lifestyle has naturally evolved into a thriving business model, further amplifying his impact in the entertainment world.
In 2020, Snoop expanded into the alcohol industry with the release of his strawberry-flavored gin, “Indoggo Gin.” He also teamed up with 19 Crimes to create the “Snoop Cali Red” wine, both of which generated significant buzz. Snoop’s distinct style shines through in the alcohol and wine sectors, further captivating his wide fanbase.
Snoop has brought his passion for cooking to the food industry with offerings like “Snoop’s Snacks” and his recipe book From Crook to Cook. He also introduced the “Snoop Doggs” hot dog brand and “Snoop’s Dream Ice Cream,” merging entertainment and food into a unique business model.
Snoop, a known gaming enthusiast, has broadened his influence by investing in the game streaming platform “Twitch” and eSports teams. In fashion, he introduced his own brand, “Snoop Dogg Clothing,” and teamed up with Adidas, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the fashion world.
Snoop ventured into the metaverse with the launch of the “Snoopverse.” Spanning music, movies, TV, food, alcohol, gaming, fashion, and cannabis, Snoop Dogg has crafted his own universe, transcending the limits of the entertainment industry.