Dr. Dre was honored with his own star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame on Tuesday.
The co-founder of N.W.A. and a trailblazer in gangsta rap was joined by Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and 50 Cent at the ceremony, all of whom had collaborated with Dre on various projects, including the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show.
Dre’s early work with N.W.A. and his debut album “The Chronic” in 1992 helped put Compton on the global map of hip-hop. He later played a pivotal role in launching the careers of artists such as Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Kendrick Lamar.
Reflecting on his journey, Dre remarked, “Growing up in Compton, I never imagined that I would one day be represented here among some of my childhood heroes. I’ve been fortunate enough to make a living doing exactly what I love to do. How about that? Isn’t that the dream?”
Dre is credited with pioneering the G-funk sound of West Coast hip-hop during the early 1990s. His music often addressed issues like police brutality, gang violence, and social inequality, giving voice to the struggles faced by marginalized communities.
He played a significant role in shaping the careers of artists like Snoop Dogg, producing his multiplatinum debut album “Doggystyle” in 1993. Snoop, in a light-hearted moment, thanked himself for heeding Dre’s call in 1991 and for being a loyal friend and collaborator over the years.
At the ceremony, Snoop reminisced about their friendship and likened their musical chemistry to that of Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson.
However, Dre’s celebrated career has not been without controversy. He has faced accusations of abuse from multiple women, including hip-hop journalist Dee Barnes. In 2015, Dre publicly apologized to “the women I’ve hurt.”
While Eminem chose to remain silent at the ceremony, Dre revealed later on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” that Eminem had to leave early to work on his new album, which Dre would be hearing for the first time the following day.
Dre, who also announced a new joint album with Snoop, concluded the ceremony with gratitude for his fans’ unwavering support over the years. “I’m incredibly grateful for your support throughout the years,” he said. “Most of us have grown up together, and at nearly 60 years old, you’re still rocking with me—and I really appreciate that. Thank you so much.”
