“I should regard myself as a musician rather than just a rapper,” Snoop Dogg declared just hours before surprising fans by dropping his new album “Iz It a Crime?” today across all major streaming platforms. This philosophy shines through the 21-track collection that samples Sade’s classic “Is It a Crime” and assembles an impressive roster of collaborators spanning multiple generations of hip-hop.
The project marks Snoop’s 21st solo studio album and continues his remarkably productive streak as he approaches his mid-50s. Far from slowing down, the Long Beach legend is actually accelerating his output, with this release following just five months after his Dr. Dre collaboration “Missionary” and only weeks after his gospel compilation “Altar Call,” which honored his late mother.
Bold collaborations define this album’s strategy, bringing current hitmaker Sexyy Red together with established stars like Pharrell Williams and Wiz Khalifa, plus emerging artists including LaRussell, Jane Handcock, and October London. This cross-generational approach appeals to both longtime fans and younger listeners discovering Snoop through his featured artists.
The album’s title and themes directly address criticism and industry scrutiny Snoop has faced throughout his career. Beyond the music itself, Snoop expanded the album experience with a companion short film, previewed at a private screening in New York City on May 13, 2025. This multimedia approach reflects the evolving nature of album releases, where streaming, social media, and visual content work together to create a more immersive experience for fans.
Controlling his artistic legacy has become Snoop’s focus as head of Death Row Records, the label that launched his career three decades ago. Snoop Dogg’s multi-year deal with NBCUniversal marks a significant shift from his gangsta rap origins to mainstream media, including a biopic and roles on “The Voice” and Olympic coverage. The album’s distribution partnership with gamma ensures global reach for the project while strengthening his position in the industry’s business landscape.
What makes “Iz It a Crime?” particularly notable is how it brings together Snoop’s past and present. The Sade sample provides a soulful foundation, while tributes to his late mother and brother add emotional depth to the album.
This balance between innovation and tradition has created early positive buzz on social media. The album offers something both familiar and fresh – a musical statement from an artist who continues to evolve after three decades in the industry.
