The Dogg grows up

You know him for his gangsta lyrics but Hip Hop superstar recently took a trip to Jamaica and came back with a new avatar, Snoop Lion and a new album, which is all Reggae. Wearing Rasta-coloured shades, and doodling as he gave us cryptic answers, Snoop Dogg aka Snoop Lion gets candid in an interview.

Snoop Dogg or Snoop Lion, in his latest avatar. PIC/ Sameer Markande

What led to your trip to Jamaica to find solace?
The spirit.

…And your transformation from Snoop Dogg to Snoop Lion?
It was a spiritual journey that I went on without knowing what was happening. It was more about me wanting to do a different style of music. Once I got there, the spirit engulfed me and took on me. That's how
it happened.

You've dabbled with different genres; are you most at peace with Reggae?
I make good music, no matter what it is. Music is a universal language. When you are good at what you do, you should be able to venture and try different genres. I like music; it feels good whether it's Techno, Reggae or Hip Hop.

Will we see Snoop Dogg or Lion on stage in India?
You'll see Snoop Dogg. I don't know if everyone's ready for Snoop Lion yet. And, I
ain't lying.

You have worked on a track for a Bollywood film. Tell us about that, and is there another collaboration soon?
My Bollywood experience with Akshay (Kumar) was one of my best experiences. Making the video as a part of that movie, I've become a fan of Bollywood movies and of Akshay. I want to do more of it. I came out here to see if directors want to give me a role, starring me and you (and laughs). I am looking at meeting some producers later on tonight and hopefully, I will leave you with a hit record. I am trying to make a song while I'm here.

Apart from your concert how do you plan to explore the country on this visit?
I want to go see some wildlife. They say you've got some nice animals here. I want to see some of the good sceneries and historic locations that we have always heard about. The palaces and that hotel that's on the water (Udaipur Lake Palace), I'd like to see that.

Any special collaborations on stage?
Mmmm, may be (grins); I always keep some. I can't tell - it wouldn't be a surprise then. There will be something nice.

Snoop Dogg performs today at Amanora Park, Pune.u00a0