Prof. Billy Hawkins
Professor at the University of Houston in the Department of Health and Human Performance. He is the author of several peer-reviewed articles and books, and he serves on the several journal and book editorial boards. His teaching and research contributions are in the areas of sociology of sport and cultural studies, sport management, and sport for development.
Email: hjbilly@Central.UH.EDU
Dr. April Peters-Hawkins
Associate Chair of the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies (DELPS). She is also a Past President of the University Council of Educational Administration (UCEA), a consortium of higher education institutions committed to advancing the preparation and practice of educational leaders for the benefit of schools and children.
Email: apetersh@cougarnet.uh.edu
Amid the many athletic accomplishments during the 2024 Paris Olympics, one major addition to the broadcast entertainment roster was the presence of Snoop Dogg. From torchbearer to host, he provided a unique perspective on various aspects of the Olympics. Few figures have enjoyed the longevity and versatility of Snoop Dogg in the vast and ever-evolving landscape of American pop culture. Born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. in Long Beach, California, in 1971, Snoop Dogg has transitioned from a gritty West Coast rapper to a global icon whose influence transcends music. His presence at the 2024 Paris Olympics is not just a testament to his enduring appeal, but also a reflection of the broader cultural shifts that have seen hip-hop take center stage in arenas previously deemed inaccessible to the genre.
Yet Snoop’s rise was not without controversy. His early career was marred by legal troubles and accusations of promoting violence, misogyny, and drug use in his lyrics. He was also charged and later acquitted of first and second-degree murder. However, these controversies did little to dim his star. Instead, within the context of this hip-hop subgenre, they seemed to add to his charisma, making him an embodiment of the rebellious spirit that hip-hop championed.
The reinvention of Snoop Dogg: A master of adaptation
What sets Snoop Dogg apart from many of his contemporaries is his remarkable ability to adapt to the changing tides of popular culture. While many artists struggle to stay relevant as trends shift, Snoop has consistently reinvented himself, remaining a fixture in the entertainment industry for over three decades. This flexibility has allowed him to remain relevant in an industry that often discards its stars once they outlive their initial appeal.
Snoop Dogg’s influence extends far beyond the realm of music. Over the years, he has become a cultural icon whose persona is instantly recognizable even to those unfamiliar with his music. His laid-back demeanor, quick wit, and signature catchphrases have made him a beloved figure in popular culture. Snoop’s ventures into television, film, and advertising have only solidified his status as a multifaceted entertainer. Perhaps most importantly, Snoop Dogg has played a significant role in normalizing hip-hop culture in mainstream society.
The 2024 Paris Olympics: Snoop Dogg takes the world stage
Including Snoop Dogg as a prominent figure at the 2024 Paris Olympics is both surprising and fitting. Surprising because the Olympics have traditionally been a platform for showcasing the world’s top athletes, with musical performances often serving as a secondary attraction. Fitting because hip-hop has become a dominant force in global culture, and Snoop Dogg is one of its most recognizable ambassadors.
Snoop’s role at the Olympics is multifaceted. In addition to performing during the opening ceremonies, he has also been involved in various promotional campaigns leading up to the event. His presence is emblematic of the growing recognition of hip-hop as a legitimate cultural force that deserves to be celebrated on the world’s biggest stages.
Moreover, Snoop’s involvement in the Olympics reflects a broader trend of blending sports and entertainment. In recent years, the lines between these two worlds have increasingly blurred, with athletes becoming celebrities in their own right and entertainers often serving as cultural commentators on sports. With his love of sports and status as a pop culture icon, Snoop Dogg is the perfect bridge between these two worlds.
The legacy of Snoop Dogg: A symbol of resilience and reinvention
As Snoop Dogg takes the stage at the 2024 Paris Olympics, he represents more than just a successful musician; he symbolizes resilience, redemption, reinvention, and the power of cultural expression. His journey from the streets of Long Beach to the Olympic stage is a testament to his ability to adapt, innovate, and remain relevant in a constantly changing world.
Snoop Dogg’s presence at the Olympics also serves as a reminder of the transformative power of hip-hop. What began as a form of artistic expression in marginalized communities has become a global phenomenon that now commands the attention of the world’s biggest stages. With his decades-long career and enduring appeal, Snoop Dogg is one of the genre’s most iconic representatives.
Ultimately, Snoop Dogg’s appearance at the 2024 Paris Olympics is not just a moment of personal triumph but a celebration of the hip-hop genre’s continual presence on the global stage. As Snoop Dogg continues to evolve and surprise us, one thing is clear: his legacy is secure, and his influence will be felt for generations to come, as long as he remains true to his reincarnation.
