The Complex Relationship Between Rappers, Gangs, and Cred: Snoop Dogg's Unlikely Safety

In the world of hip-hop, many artists openly embrace their gang affiliations, often earning them a reputation as tough, authentic figures. However, the reality behind these claims and their implications can be more nuanced. This article delves into the relationship between rapper Snoop Dogg and his Crip affiliation, exploring why no Blood gang has ever tried to take him down, despite the potential clout such an action would bring.

Outdoor Gangs and Rap Culture

One of the fundamental misunderstandings about how the rap industry operates is the assumption that every rapper is an active gang member. In reality, most are merely gang affiliates or claim that affiliation for marketability. Gang members, on the other hand, are exclusively involved in the criminal activities that come with being part of a street gang. As such, if you tamper with a gang's entertainment industry, you are essentially inviting targeted violence.

Snoop Dogg’s Cred and Safety

Snoop Dogg is often regarded as an OG (original gangster) whose credibility spans across multiple Blood and Crip sets. This credibility establishes him as an untouchable figure. The mere mention of Snoop Dogg crossing into gang territory suggests a scenario fraught with unimaginable danger. While there might be young rappers with aspirations of blending into street gangs, the consequences for such actions are severe. Snoop Dogg, being an established figure with significant social capital, is effectively off-limits to rival gangs, even those aligned with the Bloods.

The Impact of Reactions and Targeted Attacks

If a young and aspiring street rapper, often referred to as a "gangsta," were to attempt to harm Snoop Dogg, the repercussions would be severe. Snoop Dogg's allegiance to the 20s Crips in Long Beach means that any trespass into his territory would likely result in a hostile environment directly surrounding him. Relying on the support of 20s Crips, Snoop Dogg’s safety is well-secured. The thought of a Blood gang attempting to hurt him is impractical and potentially suicidal. For the Bloods to attack Snoop Dogg, they would have to navigate through a maze of Crip territories, making the attempt far more dangerous and risky than it might initially seem.

Historical Context and Gang Wars

It's important to understand that the dynamics between different gang sets are not just about Bloods versus Crips. Gang affiliations in Long Beach, for instance, are more complex; the 20s Crips operate independently from other Crip sets such as the 60s and Imperial Villages. This interconnected web of gang affiliations can lead to intricate power struggles and alliances. History records an incident where Snoop Dogg faced retaliation from the 20s Crips for his use of the area code 213, which represented Long Beach. This event culminated in Snoop Dogg's song "Black n Yellow," which was specifically crafted to address the misconception about his gang set. Snoop Dogg also received an attempted assassination from Suge Knight, who sent out goons with the intent to kill him before a concert in the late 1990s or early 2000s. This incident, which nearly started a gang war, further solidified Snoop Dogg's position as a significant figure within the Crip community.

Conclusion

The safety and credibility of figures like Snoop Dogg arise from a complex web of gang affiliations and social statuses. By understanding the nuances of gang dynamics and the interconnectedness of different sets, one can appreciate the unique position and safety of figures who are deeply embedded within the cultural landscape of hip-hop. Rappers who claim to be gang members often use this claim to foster a sense of authenticity, but the reality of gang involvement is far more hazardous and less glamorous.