Snoop Dogg’s “Iz It a Crime?”: A Laid-Back Ride Through the Icon’s Comfortable Middle Age

For over two decades, Snoop Dogg has been a household name—not just for his groundbreaking West Coast gangster rap origins, but for his unmistakable personality that has transcended music into pop culture itself. These days, Snoop’s career feels more like an effortless cruise than a climb, a vibe perfectly captured by his 21st studio album, Iz It a Crime? — a record that feels like a chill hangout session rather than a defining artistic statement.

Snoop has long moved beyond being just a rapper. From hosting quirky sketch shows to celebrity roasts, to surprising alliances with Martha Stewart and Willie Nelson, he’s become America’s favorite easygoing uncle. But his music? It’s often been an afterthought, a side project to his larger-than-life persona.

Released in 2024 as his third album under the revived Death Row Records, Iz It a Crime? offers smooth, groove-heavy tracks that are polished and pleasant but rarely venture into uncharted territory. This is music for a sunny afternoon, something to accompany a casual vibe, not dominate it.

The album opens strong with a four-song suite showcasing a reinvigorated Snoop sliding effortlessly into his signature laid-back flow. Tracks like the Sade-sampling title cut and “Sophisticated Crippin’” channel the West Coast swagger with a hint of opulence reminiscent of Rick Ross’ style. However, the momentum falters with tracks like “Can’t Wait” featuring LaRussell, where lyrical depth takes a backseat to vibe, and “Can’t Get Enough,” a grown-and-sexy ballad that awkwardly channels Rihanna’s aggressive tone but falls flat.

The record is peppered with curious decisions: Wiz Khalifa’s feature on “Just the Way It Iz” feels oddly out of place, “My Friend” meanders like a spontaneous studio jam, and the Snoop-Pharrell reunion on “Spot” blends Daft Punk and Mustard influences into a confusing mix, complete with cringeworthy dog puns.

Still, amid the misses, gems like the funk-infused “Snoop Will Make You Dance” and the chest-thumping “West Up” keep the album afloat, making it an easy listen even if it doesn’t push any boundaries.

Adding to the album’s backdrop was a recent controversy when Snoop performed a 30-minute DJ set at the Crypto Ball during former President Trump’s inauguration—surprising many given his past criticisms of Trump. He addresses the incident only briefly on “Unsung Heroes,” signaling a distance from political discourse and a focus on enjoying the ride.

Ultimately, Iz It a Crime? is a snapshot of Snoop Dogg in a comfortable phase of life: wealthy, well-connected, and effortlessly cool. It’s not a record for the history books, but it’s a smooth, laid-back soundtrack for anyone who’s ready to kick back, relax, and let the vibe flow.