Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard, who is also known for his career in rap music, recently took to Instagram to voice his opinion on Apple Music’s list of the top 100 albums of all time. Lillard, whose season with the Bucks ended in the first round of the Eastern Conference Playoffs, expressed his discontent with the placement of Snoop Dogg’s iconic album, “Doggystyle,” which was ranked at No. 84.
Lillard and Snoop Dogg share a long-standing friendship, having collaborated musically in the past. Their most notable collaboration was the 2022 track “Kobe,” which featured vocals from Snoop Dogg. Despite their close relationship, Lillard’s comment about “Doggystyle” appears to stem from his genuine appreciation for the album rather than mere camaraderie.
Apple Music’s list, released gradually over time, culminated with the announcement of Lauryn Hill’s “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” taking the top spot. The top five also included legendary artists such as Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Prince, and Frank Ocean. However, the position of Snoop Dogg’s “Doggystyle” at No. 84 caught Lillard’s attention.
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In his Instagram story, Lillard posted, “Maybe add Doggystyle…but I am not mad,” indicating his belief that the album deserved a higher ranking. His comment suggests that he might have been unaware of the album’s inclusion or simply felt it warranted a higher position on the prestigious list.
Released in 1993, “Doggystyle” is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. It was Snoop Dogg’s debut studio album and included hits like “Gin and Juice” and “Who Am I (What’s My Name)?” The album played a crucial role in defining the West Coast rap scene and solidifying Snoop Dogg’s place in music history. Despite its significant impact and enduring popularity, its placement at No. 84 on Apple Music’s list has sparked discussions among fans and artists alike.
Lillard’s support for “Doggystyle” is unsurprising given his close friendship with Snoop Dogg. Their bond extends beyond music, as evidenced by Snoop Dogg’s performance at Lillard’s wedding to Kay’la Hanson in September 2021. The lavish ceremony was attended by numerous celebrities and former teammates, although Lillard reportedly filed for divorce toward the end of last year.
Their friendship is also evident in their public interactions. When Lillard was traded from the Portland Trail Blazers to the Milwaukee Bucks, Snoop Dogg congratulated him, expressing his excitement about Lillard’s new chapter. In an Instagram video, Snoop Dogg shared, “D— Lillard to the Bucks? That’s good. Going to the East, nephew. Ball out. You got Giannis on your squad now. The East just got nasty.”
Snoop Dogg further validated their friendship by sharing a personal anecdote about Lillard confirming his move to the Bucks via text message. “So I just got the text from Damian Lillard myself. It’s true, he’s going to the Milwaukee Bucks. It’s no sources that you have to say that’s been told to you. I actually spoke to Dame via text. He’s going to the Milwaukee Bucks. Congratulations, Dame Lillard. Let’s go get that Championship, n**ga,” Snoop Dogg said in another Instagram video.
The bond between Damian Lillard and Snoop Dogg highlights the intersection of sports and music, where mutual respect and admiration transcend professional boundaries. Lillard’s public endorsement of “Doggystyle” underscores the album’s cultural significance and its enduring influence on hip-hop.
From a journalistic perspective, Lillard’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among fans who feel that certain influential works of art deserve greater recognition. The inclusion of “Doggystyle” on Apple Music’s list is a testament to its impact, but its position at No. 84 suggests a disconnect between popular opinion and critical rankings.
Lillard’s advocacy for Snoop Dogg’s album is not just a gesture of friendship but a reminder of the album’s pivotal role in shaping the hip-hop landscape. As public figures like Lillard use their platforms to champion the work of artists they admire, they contribute to the ongoing dialogue about cultural legacy and artistic merit.
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