Snoop Dogg surprises us with his second album in 12 months: “Iz It A Crime?”
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TOP 5 SONGS
5. Unsung Heroes
Let’s keep it real—these days, no one’s expecting lyrical miracles from Snoop Dogg. But on “Unsung Heroes,” the rap icon steps up with bars that genuinely impress. He delivers slick punchlines, rides the upbeat beat with effortless flow, and even throws in some playful melodies near the end. He also spends. a few lyrics addressing the people who called him a sellout and does some tricky wordplay with Kendrick and Akademik’s names. Those multivitamins were probably hitting today.
What makes this track so fun is the mix of sharp lyricism and laid-back swagger. It’s clear Snoop still knows how to talk his s**t and have a blast doing it.
4. ShutYoBitchAssUp
WTF. Did we just get a Snoop Dogg diss track in 2025? On “ShutYoBitchAssUp,” Snoop takes direct shots at Suge Knight, flexing his takeover of Death Row, his lavish lifestyle, and Suge’s current reality behind bars. Will these dudes ever peace it up?
The beat feels more in E-40’s lane with its quirky bounce, but Snoop rides it like a pro, delivering bars with a carefree swagger. The chorus? A mix of catchy and goofy that somehow works perfectly. Overall, I think this is an acquired taste west coast track.
3. Just The Way It Iz (Ft. Wiz Khalifa & J-Black)
I don’t even smoke, but this is one of those tracks that makes you want to. Backed by a buttery-smooth beat made for California breezes and beautiful company, Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dogg, and J-Black deliver a hazy anthem full of flexes and float.
The “High School” legends trade bars about overcoming struggles, stacking riches, moving strategically, and—of course—lighting up the most potent of smoke. Snoop sounds effortlessly chill as always, while Wiz injects the track with a punchy verse that turns the energy way up. And J-Black? He glides through with one of the smoothest hooks on the album—like aloe for your soul and heartburn.
2. Iz It A Crime? (Ft. October London)
Snoop Dogg opens “Iz It A Crime?” ready to slap folks. Wasting no time, he calls out everyone who’s ever switched up on him, reflecting on the loyalty, grind, and persistence that got him to the top.
There’s a sharp contrast between the hard-hitting verses and the soulful, emotional production—something that makes the track feel even more impactful. Snoop sounds like the ultimate life coach here: angry, motivated, and absolutely vindicated. Can you imagine having Snoop as your life coach?
1. Live Life
If you never expected life lessons from Snoop Dogg, think again. On “Live Life,” Snoop taps into themes of resilience, self-love, and street-wisdom.
Though his signature laid-back flow remains intact, there’s a noticeable sense of urgency and care in his tone as he unpacks the lessons he’s learned from life in the streets. The track’s chorus is the true show-stealer, flipping K-Ci & JoJo’s classic hook from “Life” into a poignant, uplifting refrain that ties the entire message together beautifully.
As I think about it, Snoop Dogg has been through a lot of s**t.
SONG-BY-SONG RATINGS
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OVERALL RATING
(67%)
Snoop Dogg still has a lot left in the tank—something I wouldn’t have said with confidence just two months ago.
On Iz It A Crime?, Snoop raps with a fire reminiscent of his ’90s heyday. His flow is sharp, his energy is competitive, and his verses feel purposeful. He reflects on overcoming negative thoughts, reaching success, and surrounding himself with solid people. It honestly feels like someone told him he wasn’t relevant anymore, and his response was, “Watch this.”
The production throughout the album is surprisingly strong. Snoop floats over classic Cali-style beats, smooth soulful instrumentals, and laid-back hip-hop tracks that feel polished and grown—not forced or trend-chasing. Thankfully, he avoids jumping on the trippy, experimental wave that doesn’t suit his style.
Another highlight of the project is the guest features. Snoop brings in a great mix of OGs and rising stars. LaRussell delivers arguably the best verse of the album on “Can’t Wait,” while Denaun (From D12) adds a soulful touch with his vocals. On the flip side, Sexy Redd’s feature was a complete misfire. Still, the collaborations overall add value.
Is this one of Snoop Dogg’s best albums ever? Probably not. Some tracks feel a bit stale and lack a modern edge. But as a surprise release from a legend just doing what he loves, it’s an enjoyable listen that shows Snoop isn’t ready to fade into the background just yet.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
