Snoop Dogg

One of the most important rappers in the game, Snoop Dogg has had the ultimate career arc, coming up during the definitive gangsta era of the early '90s with one of the last truly unique MC styles. Culminating in both platinum albums and murder charges, Snoop rode the West Coast gangsta style to its almost logical conclusion. But rather than fall victim to the real violence that became part of the scene, Snoop managed to reinvent himself as a family friendly character. The sort of performer who could make the kids get down while making guest appearances on network television sitcoms. Now, for the third act, Snoop has gotten on to the train with absolute endless appeal, that of marijuana. Not that smoking or its promotion is new to Snoop, but the Bigg Snoop Dogg's Puff Puff Pass Tour takes the classic Cypress Hill model of pro-marijuana hip-hop to the heartland. Starting in the fields of Nebraska, this documentary trails Snoop and his crew of MCs and friends (most notably The Bishop Magic Don Juan) as they travel the country, hyping crowds with classic Snoop hits such as "Murder Was the Case" and "Gin & Juice," but hyping them more with each toke of the blunt. Interviews with college professors regarding THC, and a stop at the NORML conference offer a brief academic reprise from the continuous stream of street slang and booty bouncing that makes up most of this DVD. But of course, who wants to listen to a speech about medical marijuana when Don Juan is waxing wise about the hoes backstage. That's what the kids tune in for, and Snoop delivers exactly what they want. [The 2005 special edition greatly expanded the bonus offerings on both the audio and DVD fronts.] ~ Joshua Glazer, All Music Guide