Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. (born October 20, 1971), better known by his stage name Snoop Dogg (previously Snoop Doggy Dogg), is an American rapper, record producer, and actor. Rooted in West Coast hip-hop, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential rappers of all time. Known for his signature drawled lyrics—which often use melodic rhyming, repetition, wordplay, laconic phrases, syncopation and alliteration—his music frequently addresses the lifestyle and culture of the West Coast and social issues such as gun violence and stability for the youth. His initial fame dates …