Snoop Dogg has unleashed his latest album, Missionary, today, a highly anticipated collaboration primarily produced by the legendary Dr. Dre. This marks their first full-length project together since the groundbreaking Doggystyle, and fans are eager to see what this reunion brings. Known for his laid-back flow and iconic West Coast sound, Snoop Dogg’s music has always had a groove that makes you want to move, and Missionary is no exception. While the album is deeply rooted in classic hip-hop, there’s an undeniable rhythm that might just inspire a new wave of the “Snoop Dogg Dance.”
The centerpiece of Missionary is arguably “Last Dance with Mary Jane,” a track featuring Jelly Roll that cleverly samples Tom Petty’s classic, “Mary Jane’s Last Dance.” This blend of genres creates a unique sonic landscape. The familiar hook combined with Snoop’s reflective lyrics about his long relationship with weed, dating back to his childhood, gives the song a nostalgic yet fresh feel. Snoop’s verses are contemplative and playful, recalling his first encounter with cannabis at a young age, describing it as “love at first light.” This laid-back storytelling is quintessential Snoop, providing the perfect backdrop for a subtle, head-nodding dance.
Jelly Roll adds another layer to “Last Dance with Mary Jane” with a more serious and solemn tone. His verse explores a different interpretation of “Mary Jane,” personifying it as a woman who caused him heartbreak, albeit with some weed-related metaphors still present. This contrast between Snoop’s playful reminiscence and Jelly Roll’s gravitas makes the track a compelling listen, and the underlying beat maintains a consistent rhythm that could easily translate into danceable movements.
Missionary isn’t just about “Last Dance with Mary Jane.” The album is rich with samples and collaborations, expanding its musical palette. “Hard Knocks” incorporates elements of Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2),” while “Thank You” samples Sly and the Family Stone’s “Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Again).” Notably, “Another Part of Me” reimagines The Police’s “Message In a Bottle,” with Sting himself re-recording guitar lines and adding new vocals. These diverse musical influences create a dynamic soundscape throughout the album, offering various tempos and grooves that could inspire different styles of the “snoop dogg dance,” from smooth hip-hop steps to something more experimental.
The album is also packed with features from a star-studded lineup, including Dr. Dre, Eminem, 50 Cent, BJ the Chicago Kid, Method Man, Smitty, K.A.A.N, and Jhené Aiko. This impressive roster of artists ensures a diverse range of sounds and styles within Missionary. Each collaboration brings a unique flavor to the tracks, further enhancing the album’s potential to resonate with a wide audience and perhaps spark various interpretations of the “snoop dogg dance” across different tracks.
In conclusion, Snoop Dogg’s Missionary is a significant release, marking a full circle moment with Dr. Dre and showcasing Snoop’s enduring ability to innovate and collaborate. While the album delves into Snoop’s signature themes and sonic territories, its rich tapestry of samples and guest appearances creates a fresh and engaging listening experience. Whether you’re a long-time Snoop fan or new to his music, Missionary offers plenty to explore, and its rhythmic foundation might just get you moving and discovering your own version of the “snoop dogg dance.”
