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On April 23, Snoop Lion released his new album “Reincarnated.” For those of you who don’t know, Snoop Lion is the name of the artist formerly known as Snoop Dogg. Snoop Lion’s transformation occurred during his stay in Jamaica as he immersed himself in the Rastafarian way of life. Snoop decided he was ready to change his own lifestyle, thus the name change seemed appropriate.
Although Snoop was embraced while in Jamaica, he has received criticism since returning to the United States. He has publicly stated that he believes he is the reincarnation of Bob Marley. Many people, including the people he interacted with in Jamaica, found this statement presumptuous if not ridiculous. I’m personally skeptical of the legitimacy and authenticity of Snoop’s recent changes.
Screenshot by Rachel Forray/Gavel Media.
Listening to “Reincarnated”, it became perfectly clear that Snoop no longer wishes to be seen as a rap artist. His new album is almost entirely reggae and many of the songs are accompanied with a fake Jamaican accent. I’ll admit it. They aren’t terrible. In fact a few of them are quite catchy. Personally, I enjoy “Lighters Up” (feat. Mavado & Popcaan). The hook has been stuck in my head since I first heard this track. My favorite track on the album is “Get Away” (feat. Angela Hunte & Elan Atias). I think it’s one of the few tracks that doesn't seem forced. When the beat drops, I can already imagine dancing to “Get Away” on any given weekend with my best friends.
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Although it initially appeared as if Snoop had become this unrecognizable artist, I realized this is not completely true. Snoop may be over rap, but his love for marijuana shows no signs of fading. His new track “Smoke the Weed” (feat. Collie Buddz) could easily become a favorite among marijuana smokers.
Screenshot by Rachel Forray/Gavel Media.
Maybe I'm giving Snoop too much credit. I appreciate the new focus of his music centered on peace and love. Unfortunately, it just doesn’t add up. His most popular track on the album is “No Guns Allowed” (feat Cori B and Drake). This song is sending an excellent and positive message to the public, especially when one considers the recent outbreaks of violence and terrorism in the United States and abroad. However, this message is coming from a man who was once on trial for murder. I can only take it so seriously. Furthermore, I can only take "Reincarnation" so seriously. Frankly, the fake Jamaican accent is bothersome. Snoop Dogg’s rebirth into Snoop Lion seems desperate, random, and lacks authenticity.
Snoop Lion, if you are reading this, I miss your old music. I miss the rap. “The Next Episode” is one of my most played songs. I danced to “Drop it Like It’s Hot” in middle school. Your music is regularly played on my iPod. If you are looking to make a comeback, don’t lose your style. It’s the reason you became famous. Keep it original and authentic. I miss Snoop Dogg.
School, major and year:College of Arts and Sciences , Economics and English double major, 2016
Hometown Hershey, Pennsylvania
Favorite Beyonce lyric: "I don't think you're ready for this jelly"
