Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., is a renowned American rapper, record producer, and actor. Rooted in West Coast hip-hop, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time. This timeline highlights significant events and milestones in his life and career.
Main Milestones
Birth
October 20, 1971
Snoop Dogg was born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. in Long Beach, California. His nickname 'Snoop' came from his mother, who thought he resembled Snoopy from the Peanuts cartoon.
Early Musical Beginnings
Early 1980s
Snoop started playing piano and singing at his local Baptist church. He began rapping in sixth grade, eventually forming the group 213 with his cousin Nate Dogg and friend Warren G.
Breakthrough with Dr. Dre
1992
Snoop's track caught the attention of Dr. Dre, leading to a collaboration on the song 'Deep Cover' and his significant role on Dre's debut album, "The Chronic".
Debut Album "Doggystyle"
1993
Snoop Dogg's debut studio album, "Doggystyle", was released by Death Row Records and debuted atop the "Billboard" 200, selling 806,000 copies in its first week and spawning top-ten singles 'What's My Name?' and 'Gin and Juice'.
Second Album "Tha Doggfather"
1996
Snoop's second album, "Tha Doggfather", debuted atop the chart and received double platinum certification. This period marked his continued success with Death Row Records.
Departure from Death Row and Signing with No Limit Records
1998
Snoop parted ways with Death Row Records and signed with Master P's No Limit Records, releasing "Da Game Is to Be Sold, Not to Be Told", which scored the top slot on the hip-hop charts.
Chart-Topping Single 'Drop It Like It's Hot'
2004
Snoop collaborated with Pharrell Williams on the chart-topping single 'Drop It Like It's Hot', which became his first to peak atop the "Billboard" Hot 100.
Historic Ringtone Release
2007
Snoop made history by becoming the first artist to release a track as a ringtone before its release as a single, with 'It's the D.O.G'.
Tenth Studio Album "Malice n Wonderland"
2009
Snoop released his tenth studio album, "Malice n Wonderland", which debuted at No. 23 on the "Billboard" 200 and featured singles like 'Gangsta Luv' and 'I Wanna Rock'.
Eleventh Studio Album "Doggumentary"
2011
Snoop released his eleventh studio album, "Doggumentary", which saw mild critical and commercial response.
Continued Legacy
2025
Snoop Dogg continues to be a significant figure in the music industry, with over 35 million albums sold worldwide and 17 Grammy Award nominations.
