Snoop Dogg recently opened up about the tension that arose between him and Dr. Dre after his decision to acquire Death Row Records. In a candid interview with AP News, the iconic rapper revealed that his longtime mentor was initially skeptical of the move. Snoop purchased the storied label from MNRK Music Group, formerly eOne Music, in 2022, marking a significant moment in his career but also raising eyebrows among those close to him.
Snoop shared that Dr. Dre’s initial reaction reflected concerns about the label’s turbulent history and financial struggles. “Oh, he didn’t like it,” Snoop admitted. “He was torn up about it. He didn’t like it.”
Snoop noted that Dre and others questioned why he would take on what seemed like a financial burden. “To them, it looked like, ‘Why is he buying a bag of problems when he’s already successful? Why bring that back into his life?’” However, for Snoop, the acquisition was about more than just business; it was a matter of legacy and redemption. “I saw my legacy. Saw unfinished business that needed to be handled. I wanted to put some life into Death Row—some beautiful music and happy moments to redefine what it stood for.”
Over time, Dr. Dre’s perspective shifted. Snoop shared that his mentor eventually became one of the label’s biggest advocates. “He loves it now,” Snoop said with a grin. “He’s down with it. I even got him asking for a Death Row jacket.” Since taking control, Snoop has revitalized the label by bringing back iconic artists while also signing new talent. Additionally, Snoop and Dr. Dre recently released their collaborative album, Missionary, under the Death Row banner, solidifying the label’s renewed presence in today’s music landscape.
