It was much more than a simple musical performance that the audience at the Bell Center enjoyed this Sunday, June 9 for the appearance of Snoop Dogg: it was a question of a nostalgic journey into a time when gangsta rap reigned supreme , a celebration of hip-hop culture and a tribute to the undeniable heritage of the West Coast, all with a touch of renewal and diversity.
What is striking when you arrive at the Bell Center is the family atmosphere. Parents accompany their children, these young people who did not grow up with the golden age of gangsta rap, discovering with wonder the musicality and talent of Californian artists. Seeing families come together to enjoy this music is a touching and unexpected image for a rap concert, especially for a 90s kid like me.
Snoop Dogg, the showman
Snoop Dogg’s staging was impressive, reflecting the spirit of the return of the Death Row Records label, which he recently took over, signing many former artists. Snoop took the stage like he did in the Up in Smoke Tour era, with visual and musical references to his old hits. Wearing a Canadian flag jersey, he immediately referenced his love of hockey jerseys, reminiscent of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ one in the music video for Gin & Juice.
Finally, we will be treated to Snoop dressed in the Montreal Canadiens outfit, halfway through his set. He continued with Tea Next Episodefollowed by Nuthin’ But a “G” Thang, Deep Cover and many other classics.
The concert was also punctuated by tributes to inspiring and activist figures, with portraits of influential black women and performances, including that of The Lady of Rage. The 80’s version of Lodi Dodi and the energetic interpretation of Murder Was the Case showcased Snoop’s musical diversity and love for early hip-hop.
Dogg Pound’s debut was marked by a short film symbolizing their return, followed by powerful titles like What Would U Do? And Let’s Get High. Although their set may have seemed a little long to some, around 25 minutes long, it was a brilliant celebration of their legacy.
An electrifying finale
The concert ended on iconic notes with Drop It Like It’s Hot And Gin & Juice, recalling the best moments of Snoop Dogg’s career. In tribute to Tupac and Biggie, Snoop performed 2 of Amerikaz Most Wanted and praised Biggie’s talent, thus closing a show that will remain engraved in the memories.
Snoop never left, but Death Row Records is back for a second life, far from the iron fist of producer Suge Knight.
DJ Quik: Master of His Art
DJ Quik’s performance, in the first part, was a true demonstration of mastery. Installed in the center of the stage with his turntables, he delivered an impeccable set, performing his classics (Let’s Get Down, Tonite) with impressive dexterity. He perfectly embodied the role of DJ and MC, communicating with the audience and maintaining incredible energy throughout his performance. A great opening from the Compton MC.
Warren G: A Pillar of the West Coast
Warren G, who should have signed with Death Row Records like his 213 bandmate Snoop, ultimately chose another path, sensing tensions within Death Row Records at the time. Although his career may have been less publicized than Snoop’s, he more than deserves his place on this night of legends. His setlist was a faithful homage to the West Coast genre, and he was able to rekindle the flame of Californian rap, ending with the famous Regulatetaken from his first album Regulate…G Funk Era.
The concert was also marked by the arrival of the group Twins during Warren G’s set, having signed the legendary album Conversation in 1995. Warren G gave us a mashup of the late Nate Dogg’s classics, taking us back to the heyday of G Funk.
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