Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s Missionary Album Reunites Hip-Hop Titans and Pays Homage to Biggie
Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg are celebrating a massive win with their new album Missionary, a long-awaited project that revives the creative magic they first showcased in Doggystyle (1993). However, when reflecting on recent hip-hop releases, Dre admits he hasn’t felt inspired in years, citing Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012) and To Pimp a Butterfly (2015) as the last rap albums that truly moved him.
“If we’re talking about new stuff, I’d have to say good kid, m.A.A.d city and To Pimp a Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar,” Dre shared in a candid interview with Complex published on Monday (December 16). Both albums—widely hailed as masterpieces—were executive produced by Dre and solidified Lamar as one of the greatest storytellers in hip-hop.
A Star-Studded Comeback: Missionary
Released on Friday (December 13), Missionary marks a triumphant return for Dre and Snoop, featuring powerhouse collaborations and paying homage to the genre’s rich history. One standout track, “Gunz N Smoke,” reunites Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and 50 Cent for the first time on a single song, creating a monumental moment for hip-hop fans.
Over Dre’s signature groove-heavy production, the track celebrates the influence of the late Notorious B.I.G., weaving in nods to his classics like “Who Shot Ya” and “Dead Wrong.”
- 50 Cent kicks things off with a razor-sharp verse, packed with menacing undertones and a salute to Biggie’s iconic style.
- Snoop Dogg follows, channeling Biggie’s cadence and cleverly repurposing lines from “Notorious Thugs,” showcasing his timeless versatility.
- Eminem closes the track with a masterful verse that balances raw emotion with intricate wordplay, reflecting on his turbulent past and personal growth. His lyrical finesse provides a fitting finale to the all-star collaboration.
A Spiritual Successor to Doggystyle
Missionary, a 16-track album, serves as a spiritual successor to Doggystyle, blending Dre and Snoop’s classic West Coast sound with modern elements. The project brings together an eclectic mix of talent from across genres:
- Method Man, Jelly Roll, Jhené Aiko, and BJ The Chicago Kid contribute to the album’s rich soundscape.
- Rock legends Sting and Tom Petty deliver unexpected yet refreshing moments, further bridging genres and eras.
Dre and Snoop’s Enduring Legacy
With Missionary, Dre and Snoop reaffirm their status as pioneers of hip-hop, seamlessly merging nostalgia with innovation. The album pays homage to the genre’s roots while introducing fresh energy that resonates with both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners.
As Dre rides high on Missionary’s success, his reflections on Kendrick Lamar’s albums remind fans of the importance of storytelling and authenticity in hip-hop—a sentiment echoed throughout this groundbreaking new project.
