Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club – Interview with Snoop Dogg
Episode Title: INTERVIEW: Snoop Dogg On West Coast Legacy, Purpose, 2Pac Regrets, New Album + More
Release Date: May 14, 2025
Hosts: DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, Charlamagne Tha God
Guest: Snoop Dogg
Knowledge Cutoff: October 2023
Introduction
In this compelling episode of The Breakfast Club, hosts DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, and Charlamagne Tha God engage in an in-depth conversation with the iconic rapper and entrepreneur, Snoop Dogg. The interview delves into his personal life, musical legacy, business ventures, and reflections on the evolution of hip-hop.
Grandfatherhood and Personal Growth
Snoop Dogg opens up about his transition into grandfatherhood, highlighting how it has reshaped his perspective and responsibilities.
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Charlamagne Tha God [03:12]: “I think I see a grandfather because like the things that I deal with now is like I deal with grandkids... it’s wisdom.”
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Snoop Dogg [03:53]: “You know your grandkids teach you how you should have loved your kids.”
Snoop reflects on becoming a mentor figure, emphasizing the balance between discipline and affection in raising his grandchildren.
- Charlamagne Tha God [04:04]: “What’s best for the family is what’s necessary. I just love the fact that I’m able to grow in front of everybody’s eyes...”
Music Career and New Album: "Is It a Crime?"
The discussion shifts to Snoop’s latest musical endeavor, his new album Is It a Crime?, which marks a significant moment in his career.
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DJ Envy [05:34]: “Now, with this album here, Snoop, is it a crime?”
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Snoop Dogg [05:38]: “Yeah.”
Snoop explains his motivation behind the album, aiming to prove his versatility and authenticity as an artist.
- Charlamagne Tha God [06:04]: “I’m treating myself like a musician and not like a rapper...”
He speaks candidly about the creative process and the emotional depth involved in producing music that resonates with both himself and his audience.
West Coast Hip-Hop Legacy
A significant portion of the interview is dedicated to the enduring legacy of West Coast hip-hop and its current renaissance.
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Just Hilarious [14:38]: “Do you feel like the west coast is having some type of renaissance right now?”
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Snoop Dogg [15:01]: “When Dre, Snoop, Tupac... it was like K DOT is standing up top now.”
Snoop underscores the unique sound of West Coast rap, its originality, and the challenges faced in maintaining its distinct identity amidst a saturated music landscape.
- Charlamagne Tha God [07:43]: “It wasn’t fighting against 400 rappers... our sound was original and unique.”
He praises artists like Kendrick Lamar for continuing the West Coast tradition while expanding its global influence.
Business Ventures and Generational Wealth
Snoop Dogg discusses his entrepreneurial ventures, particularly focusing on his ownership of Death Row Records and his commitment to building generational wealth.
- Charlamagne Tha God [18:22]: “I got Nate Dogg catalog in the pipeline... teaching ownership through lyrics.”
He emphasizes the importance of retaining ownership of his work to ensure long-term financial stability for his family and community.
- Charlamagne Tha God [19:28]: “It's teaching a lot of people selling their things...”
Snoop highlights the significance of strategic business decisions in preserving and growing wealth across generations.
Personal Reflections and Purpose
Delving deeper, Snoop shares his introspections on purpose, legacy, and personal growth.
- Charlamagne Tha God [46:56]: “I know what my purpose is. I know why so many people love me.”
He narrates his journey from a life entrenched in the gang culture to one of positivity, mentorship, and spiritual fulfillment.
- Charlamagne Tha God [33:38]: “When I had to make a decision of, okay, I can’t live like that no more...”
Snoop discusses the emotional challenges of leaving behind a former lifestyle and the strength required to embrace positive change.
Regrets and Forgiveness
The conversation touches on Snoop’s regrets, particularly regarding his relationship with Tupac Shakur, and his approach to forgiveness.
- Charlamagne Tha God [34:46]: “One of your biggest regrets was not squashing out things with Tupac...”
He expresses regret over unresolved tensions and the impact it had on both his personal life and his connection with the hip-hop community.
- Charlamagne Tha God [36:04]: “I just live... I know I’m gonna make some mistakes every day.”
Snoop emphasizes the importance of self-forgiveness and learning from past experiences to foster personal growth.
Influence and Mentorship
Snoop reflects on his role as a mentor to younger artists and his influence on the next generation of hip-hop.
- Charlamagne Tha God [50:31]: “I’ve always been like that. I like to open up to everybody.”
He recounts anecdotes about discovering and supporting emerging talents, illustrating his commitment to nurturing new voices in the industry.
- Charlamagne Tha God [53:37]: “I stay active... I’m a machine 24/7.”
Snoop’s dedication to mentorship underscores his legacy beyond his music, highlighting his influence on the broader cultural landscape.
Conclusion
The interview concludes with a discussion about Snoop’s new album, upcoming projects, and his unwavering commitment to his craft and community.
- Charlamagne Tha God [54:52]: “So let me tell you about it...”
Snoop Dogg’s authenticity, combined with his reflections on legacy, purpose, and personal growth, offers listeners a profound insight into the life of one of hip-hop’s most enduring figures.
Notable Quotes:
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Charlamagne Tha God [03:12]: “I think I see a grandfather because like the things that I deal with now is like I deal with grandkids... it’s wisdom.”
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Snoop Dogg [05:38]: “Yeah.”
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Charlamagne Tha God [06:04]: “I’m treating myself like a musician and not like a rapper...”
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Just Hilarious [14:38]: “Do you feel like the west coast is having some type of renaissance right now?”
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Charlamagne Tha God [18:22]: “I got Nate Dogg catalog in the pipeline... teaching ownership through lyrics.”
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Charlamagne Tha God [34:46]: “One of your biggest regrets was not squashing out things with Tupac...”
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Charlamagne Tha God [46:56]: “I know what my purpose is. I know why so many people love me.”
Conclusion
Snoop Dogg’s candid discussion on The Breakfast Club offers a rich tapestry of insights into his personal evolution, the state of West Coast hip-hop, and his strategic approach to business and legacy. Listeners gain a deep appreciation for his enduring influence and the thoughtful introspection that continues to define his journey.