DJ Premier and Snoop Dogg, two icons in the hip-hop realm, have reignited their longstanding collaboration with the release of their brand-new single, “Can U Dig That?” The track marks their first joint venture under Preem’s label TTT (To The Top), a venture initiated alongside his longtime manager Ian Schwartzman.
In a recent statement, DJ Premier shed light on the genesis of the collaboration, tracing it back to the early 2000s when they first joined forces on a series of tracks. However, “Can U Dig That?” represents a fresh chapter in their partnership, as it’s the inaugural release under TTT.
The journey to the creation of this single wasn’t without its twists and turns. Initially conceived for a full-length album, the track underwent a transformation as plans shifted towards a focus on standalone singles. Snoop Dogg revisited the song, fine-tuning his lyrics and infusing it with renewed energy, culminating in its readiness for release.
This latest offering from DJ Premier comes in the wake of another notable collaboration, “Work This Out,” featuring Russ and Big K.R.I.T., showcasing the producer’s versatility and enduring relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop.
While DJ Premier continues to forge ahead with new musical endeavors, he also takes time to reflect on his illustrious past. Recently, on March 8, he commemorated the 30th anniversary of Gang Starr’s seminal album, “Hard to Earn,” by sharing insights into its creation.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, DJ Premier recounted the album’s title origin, revealing that it emerged from a conversation with his late collaborator, Guru. The album, released on March 8, 1994, remains a cherished gem in the annals of hip-hop history, embodying a pivotal moment in DJ Premier’s artistic evolution.
“Hard to Earn” not only solidified Gang Starr’s legacy but also signaled a sonic shift for DJ Premier, who sought to defy categorization and showcase his versatility as a producer. Through innovative sampling and boundary-pushing sounds, DJ Premier demonstrated his ability to transcend musical boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.
As DJ Premier pays homage to the collaborators and contributors who played a role in shaping “Hard to Earn,” he also honors the memory of Guru, his partner in rhyme, whose enduring influence continues to resonate within the hip-hop community.
With “Can U Dig That?” DJ Premier and Snoop Dogg reaffirm their status as trailblazers in the rap scene, bridging the past and the present with their timeless artistry and unwavering dedication to the craft. As fans eagerly await what’s next from these two legends, one thing remains certain: the legacy of DJ Premier and Snoop Dogg will continue to reverberate throughout hip-hop for years to come.
Be sure to follow @hiphopuntapped for Hip Hop News, Entertainment , Fashion , & Sports.
