Snoop Dogg's "Cali 2 Canada" tour reached its climactic conclusion at Vancouver's Rogers Arena on June 27, 2024. The final stop of the 11-city journey that began in Halifax, NS, saw Snoop Dogg and a lineup of hip-hop legends deliver an unforgettable night to west coast crowd. Nearly a year after Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa rocked the same venue, the anticipation for this concert and Snoop's return to the city was high, and it certainly did not disappoint.
Photos by Tage Stenner / Backspin Canada
The evening kicked off with B.C.’s own Merkules, the first Canadian artist signed to Death Row Records. The hometown hero took the stage with electric energy, reminiscing about his childhood dreams of performing at Rogers Arena. He shared a heartfelt moment with the audience, thanking his parents for their unwavering support, even bringing them on stage. Merkules also expressed gratitude to his wife, acknowledging her support during the early, challenging days of his career. His set was a celebration of personal achievement and community pride, making it uniquely resonant for the local crowd.
Next up was the legendary DJ Quik. The crowd was gifted with a surprise when local rapper Jay Worthy came on stage to hype up Quick, elevating the energy to new heights. DJ Quik’s setlist was a journey through hip-hop history, featuring hits like "Born and Raised in Compton," and a medley of production and engineering credits that showcased his extensive influence on the genre. Known as one of the most skilled producers and rappers in West Coast hip-hop, DJ Quik, born David Marvin Blake, has earned his reputation through his innovative sound and smooth delivery.
DJ Quik's influence extends far beyond his own discography. As a producer, he has worked with a range of artists, leaving an indelible mark on tracks across the hip-hop spectrum. His ability to seamlessly blend G-funk rhythms with sharp lyrics was on full display, and the chemistry between DJ Quik and Jay Worthy added a dynamic layer to the performance, making it a highlight of the night.
Warren G followed with his signature smooth delivery, opening with "This D.J." His setlist showcased his enduring legacy, featuring classics like "Regulate" and "Do You See." As he performed, the audience was transported back to the golden era of hip-hop, his laid-back style and masterful flow resonating deeply with fans old and new. Tracks like "I Want It All" and "What's Next" had the crowd rapping along word for word, while his covers and collaborations, such as "Nobody Does It Better" and "Indo Smoke," highlighted his versatility and influence across the genre.
Warren G, born Warren Griffin III and famously known as "The Regulator," earned his nickname from his iconic track "Regulate," which defined 90s hip-hop. As the stepbrother of Dr. Dre, he was deeply embedded in the West Coast rap scene from an early age. Despite the pressures of such a significant family connection, Warren G carved out his own path, with "Regulate" becoming one of the defining tracks of the 90s.
As the crowd patiently waited, the arena was filled with smoke to the iconic Dr. Dre and Snoop track Still D.R.E as the stage doors opened to reveal a vintage car with a custom license plate reading "Snoop ’64" complete with hydraulics. Snoop Dogg emerged in a classic Snoop-branded outfit, blunt in his left hand, and exuding the laid-back charisma that has made him a global icon.
From the moment he stepped on stage, Snoop commanded the audience's attention. The stage setup, complete with vibrant visuals and a vintage car centrepiece, created an immersive experience. His performance of "The Next Episode" ignited the crowd, setting the tone for the night while "Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang" brought a wave of nostalgia, with fans rapping along to every verse.
Snoop’s interaction with the crowd was a highlight, as he seamlessly transitioned between tracks, sharing words and hyping up the audience. During "Gin and Juice," the entire arena seemed to sway to the beat, a example of the song's timeless appeal. "Drop It Like It's Hot" saw Snoop at his best, with smooth choreography and flawless delivery, proving his endurance as a performer.
The concert's grand finale saw Snoop Dogg performing "Young, Wild & Free," a fitting end to a tour that celebrated the spirit of freedom and the enduring power of West Coast hip-hop. As the final beats rattled through Rogers Arena, the crowd erupted in applause, a show of respect to the incredible night they had witnessed.
What made this tour uniquely Canadian was its journey across the diverse landscapes of the country, from the Atlantic coast in Halifax to the Pacific coast in Vancouver. The tour not only celebrated hip-hop but also paid homage to Canada's rich cultural tapestry. Each city brought its own flavour, from the historical streets of Quebec City to the vibrant urban vibe of Toronto, culminating in the eclectic energy of Vancouver. This was a tour that embraced the Canadian spirit, connecting fans from coast to coast with the universal language of music.
Snoop Dogg's "Cali 2 Canada" tour was not just another tour but a celebration of hip-hop culture, community, personal triumphs, and of course Canada. It left fans in Vancouver with a night to remember and a question lingering in their minds: Where will Snoop Dogg's legendary journey take him next?
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