Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., known professionally as Snoop Dogg, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, DJ, and media personality. Born in Long Beach, California in 1971, he found an escape from crime through music, recording homemade tapes with his friend Warren G. His 1993 solo debut, Doggystyle, and smooth, laid-back style helped define G-funk and gangsta rap, earning him recognition and 20 Grammy nominations. Over his career, he has become a beloved pop culture icon, expanding into acting, television hosting, and entrepreneurship.