The 2024 music calendar is set to end on a high note with a new project from Snoop Dogg. This year, he not only starred in the movie The Underdoggs but also launched his own alcohol brand, Still G.I.N., and made appearances on The Voice. Snoop is now solidifying his legacy with a return to the medium that catapulted him to stardom: rap music.

Snoop Dogg joins forces with his long-time collaborator, producer Dr. Dre, to unveil his milestone 20th album: Missionary. Marking over 30 years since his groundbreaking debut Doggystyle, this album represents the pinnacle of his artistic journey. Featuring an impressive lineup of guest appearances from artists like Eminem, Sting, 50 Cent, and Tom Petty, the album promises a diverse range of unique tracks, all crafted under Dre’s masterful production. Let’s dive into a comprehensive ranking of every track from Snoop Dogg’s Missionary.

16 “Another Part of Me”

Collaborating with Sting for a Unique Sound

This track serves as a modern reinterpretation of Sting’s classic hit “Message in a Bottle,” originally performed by The Police. While it attempts to pay homage to the original, it ultimately falls short of expectations. This is the album’s only track that feels somewhat disappointing, and it’s a letdown considering Sting’s impressive legacy. The excitement surrounding his involvement is palpable, as he rarely collaborates with rappers. Yet, despite the anticipation, this collaboration does not resonate as strongly as hoped.

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While the production is reminiscent of The Police’s iconic sound, Snoop’s delivery feels somewhat subdued, lacking his usual dynamic flair. It seems as though he’s trying to adopt a crooning style, while Sting’s attempts at rapping don’t quite resonate. The result is an intriguing but ultimately mismatched collaboration that fails to hit the mark.

15 “Gangsta Pose”

Featuring Dem Jointz, Stalone, and Fat Money

This track suffers due to its heavy reliance on autotune, which can come across as somewhat abrasive. It’s disappointing because Snoop Dogg’s verses are genuinely solid. Despite lacking standout moments, the song could have been more enjoyable without the questionable production choices that detract from its overall appeal.

From a production standpoint, the beat is strong enough to stand on its own. If it were solely the instrumental, it would elevate the song significantly. However, some of Dr. Dre’s creative decisions here don’t quite land, making this track feel skippable. Positioned as one of the final tracks on the album, it doesn’t detract from the overall experience but certainly could have added more value had it been omitted.

14 “The Negotiator”

The Reflective Closing Track

The final offering on Missionary is simply average. It’s not particularly bad, but it lacks the depth or excitement that would warrant repeated listens. While it offers a recap of Snoop’s journey, it primarily serves as a farewell to the album rather than a memorable conclusion.

“The Negotiator” may not be a terrible track, but it certainly doesn’t deliver the impactful conclusion that fans might expect, especially given the strength of earlier tracks. Ending on a quieter note feels somewhat anticlimactic, as the album deserves a more robust finish to honor the remarkable journey it represents.

13 “Foreplay”

Featuring BJ the Chicago Kid

The opening track of the album, though brief, effectively sets the stage for what’s to come. It captures a blend of contemporary sounds with nostalgic vibes. BJ the Chicago Kid provides a glimpse into the richness of the R&B genre, welcoming listeners into the Snoop Dogg experience. Meanwhile, Dre’s production echoes the grandeur of the 90s, a nostalgic invitation that old-school fans will appreciate. The classic intro, “You are now about to witness the strength of street knowledge,” adds to the charm.

Though it runs under 90 seconds, it leaves a lasting impact, paving the way for Snoop Dogg’s latest auditory journey. “Foreplay” transitions seamlessly into the subsequent track, “Shangri-La,” showcasing a masterful flow.

12 “Shangri-La”

Snoop Dogg’s Impressive First Verse

Building on the momentum from “Foreplay,” “Shangri-La” introduces Snoop Dogg’s first verse, which is remarkably strong. Audiences often see Snoop as a multifaceted entertainer, but it’s easy to forget his roots as a rapper. His ability to deliver a compelling verse reminds listeners that his lyrical prowess and smooth flow have not diminished. It’s not just about his continued ability to write, but also about how engaging he remains as a lyricist.

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Like “Foreplay,” this track is also brief, clocking in at just over 90 seconds, but it serves as a vibrant teaser for what lies ahead in the album.

11 “Pressure”

Featuring K.A.A.N. for a Dynamic Collaboration

“Pressure” faces the challenge of following “Thank You,” one of the album’s standout tracks, which inevitably sets high expectations. Despite the pressure, the song holds its own with a catchy beat courtesy of Dr. Dre. Snoop’s lyrical consistency shines through, showcasing clever wordplay such as “She said she wanna eat a hot dog, imma relish it.” which reflects his knack for humor and wit.

K.A.A.N.’s presence on the chorus adds a unique touch, although for newcomers, his voice could initially be mistaken for that of Pharrell Williams. While not a bad performance, it’s a notable aspect that might catch some listeners off-guard.

10 “Gorgeous”

Featuring Jhene Aiko for a Nostalgic Vibe

This track encapsulates the essence of the ’90s G-Funk era, with production that feels like it was unearthed from an old Dr. Dre vault. The nostalgia is palpable, creating an irresistible head-bopper that invites listeners to sway along. Snoop delivers a strong verse, but it’s Jhene Aiko’s contribution that truly elevates the song.

Aiko brings a refreshing flair, reminiscent of legendary R&B artists like Mary J. Blige, enhancing the song’s nostalgic vibe and making it a standout moment on the album.

9 “Hard Knocks”

A Duality of Musical Styles

“Hard Knocks” offers a unique listening experience, feeling like two distinct songs fused into one. The first half draws inspiration from Jay-Z’s “Hard Knock Life,” likely a deliberate nod given the title. Both tracks feature an engaging children’s chorus, creating a familiar and catchy vibe. The second half transitions smoothly, giving Snoop Dogg the spotlight to deliver his distinctive voice.

Lyrically, Snoop reflects on his journey, recalling his rise from humble beginnings and echoing themes reminiscent of “Murder Was the Case.” This masterful composition leaves listeners craving more, as both halves possess enough quality to warrant longer, separate tracks.

8 “Sticcy Situation”

Featuring K.A.A.N. and Coco Sarai for a Fluid Collaboration

“Sticcy Situation” introduces a pivotal beat shift that feels essential to the song’s structure. Unlike “Hard Knocks,” where each half feels distinct, the two sides of this track blend seamlessly, enhancing its overall impact. Coco Sarai shines brightly, contributing both a catchy hook and a melodic verse that wraps up the song beautifully.

K.A.A.N.’s performance is commendable, with a delivery that channels the late Nate Dogg, showcasing Dre’s knack for pairing artists in unexpected ways. This collaboration elevates the overall listening experience.

7 “Skyscrapers”

Featuring Method Man and Smitty for a Competitive Edge

While the previous collaboration with Sting fell flat, “Skyscrapers” revitalizes the album’s energy. This track features no chorus, allowing each artist — Snoop, Method Man, and Smitty — to take turns showcasing their lyrical skills. The friendly competition among these talented MCs results in an exhilarating performance.

Listeners are likely to leave this track wishing for more from Smitty, whose brief verse could have benefited from more airtime. His contribution, though short, proves he can hold his own among legends.

6 “Outta Da Blue”

Featuring Alus for a Throwback Party Vibe

While “Fore Play” had a nostalgic flair, “Outta Da Blue” takes it a step further with a beat that echoes Snoop Dogg’s earlier work from the mid-2000s. This track feels like a lively posse cut, inviting listeners to envision themselves at a vibrant house party. Alus’ hook cleverly references M.I.A’s “Paper Planes,” adding another layer of nostalgia.

Dr. Dre not only shines in production but also delivers a rap verse, showcasing a return to form that recalls his N.W.A days. The interplay between Snoop and Dre, exchanging bars, is a delightful highlight of this collaboration.

5 “Now Or Never”

Featuring BJ the Chicago Kid for a Reflective Finale

Returning to the fold, BJ the Chicago Kid closes the album with a powerful message about building legacies after achieving greatness. This track serves as a perfect epilogue, encapsulating the recurring themes of the album — a journey of 30 years filled with triumphs and challenges.

BJ’s captivating hook complements Snoop’s compelling verse, while Dr. Dre’s contribution solidifies this track as one of the album’s highlights. The synergy among these artists creates a memorable finale to the project.

4 “Gunz N Smoke”

Featuring 50 Cent and Eminem for Unforgettable Verses

Similar to “Skyscrapers,” this track stands out as a quintessential rap collaboration featuring three powerhouses in the industry. Each artist is given ample time to display their lyrical prowess, with every verse brimming with memorable lines and clever wordplay. The seamless production by Dre ensures a smooth transition between verses, allowing listeners to enjoy the song as a cohesive unit.