Hip-hop legends Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre have joined forces again after three decades, releasing their highly anticipated album "Missionary" - marking their first full collaboration since 1993's "Doggystyle."
The album, which is Snoop's 20th studio release, showcases the evolution of both artists while paying homage to their iconic partnership. At ages 53 and 59 respectively, Snoop and Dre demonstrate their continued ability to push creative boundaries while maintaining their signature styles.
"[Dr. Dre] uses me like a robot and I love it because I love to be produced. I love to be challenged," Snoop told the All the Smoke podcast. The producer's influence helped bring out what Snoop describes as a "grown" version of himself, with carefully crafted vocals and delivery.
The album features an impressive lineup of guest appearances including Eminem, Method Man, 50 Cent, Sting, Jelly Roll, and Jhené Aiko. One standout track, "Last Dance With Mary Jane," incorporates elements from Tom Petty's catalog, showcasing Dre's masterful production skills.
While the album maintains elements of their classic G-funk sound, it ventures into new territory with luxurious production and what Snoop calls "mogul rap." The project was released through Death Row, Aftermath, and Interscope Records.
Dr. Dre's involvement came after noticing a gap between Snoop's entertainment ventures and his music output. "He was watching me in the entertainment world and figuring that my music hand ain't matching my entertainment hand," Snoop explained to The Associated Press.
"Missionary" arrives as part of a broader renaissance of veteran hip-hop artists releasing impactful comeback albums, cementing Snoop and Dre's enduring influence on the genre they helped define.