Album: Tha Last Meal

Introduction
"Tha Last Meal" is the fifth studio album by American rapper Snoop Dogg, launched on December 19, 2000, by No Limit Records and Doggystyle Records. This album marks the last collaboration between Snoop Dogg and his veteran pal and manufacturer Dr. Dre, who contributed his signature West Coast beats to numerous tracks. "Tha Last Meal" has actually been viewed as a recover for Snoop Dogg after his stint with No Limit, including G-funk components similar to his earlier deal with Dr. Dre in the 1990s.

Tracklist and Features
The album consists of 19 tracks, including partnerships with fellow West Coast rappers Nate Dogg, Kokane, and Butch Cassidy, to name a few. The album also consists of visitor appearances from popular artists like Ice Cube and D12's Proof. "Tha Last Meal" hosts tracks that display Snoop Dogg's broad series of musical skills, from straight-up, heavy-hitting gangsta rap ("Set It Off") to more easy going, radio-friendly tracks ("Lay Low").

Some standout songs from the album include "Hennesey N Buddah", which features a smooth beat with Kokane providing an appealing hook, and "Lay Low", a popular single including Nate Dogg on the chorus. Another hit, "Wrong Idea", pairs Snoop Dogg with Bad Azz, delivering a powerful message about the truths of life in the streets.

Production and Style
"Tha Last Meal" boasts production credits from some of the West Coast's biggest names, such as Dr. Dre, Timbaland, and Battlecat, mashing approximately develop a diverse mix of beats and vibes. The album reestablishes G-funk impacts, which were essential in Snoop Dogg's profession and in shaping West Coast hip-hop. It marries the transmittable basslines and melodic synthesizers of 1990s G-funk with contemporary production strategies, providing listeners a fresh and updated sound.

One such example is the Timbaland-produced track "Snoop Dogg (What's My Name Pt. 2)". This tune is a follow-up to Snoop Dogg's debut solo single, "Who Am I? (What's My Name?)". It integrates elements of G-Funk with Timbaland's signature futuristic sound, breathing new life into a classic style.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Tha Last Meal" got usually positive evaluations from music critics who praised the album's cohesiveness, production worth, and Snoop Dogg's lyricism. The album debuted at number nine on the Billboard 200 and number 4 on the Top R&B/ Hip-Hop Albums, selling over 400,000 copies in its first week and eventually going multiplatinum with over two million copies offered in the United States.

Nevertheless, the impact of "Tha Last Meal" extends beyond just commercial success. The album is frequently regarded as among Snoop Dogg's best records. It restored him as a force in West Coast hip-hop and strengthened his legendary status in the rap video game. The album showcases the artist's ability to adjust and stay real to his roots while setting the stage for his future jobs.

In conclusion, "Tha Last Meal" is a standout album from 2000, blending modern-day noises with Snoop Dogg's signature G-funk design. The album features excellent production and partnerships with significant artists, making it a necessary listen for fans of West Coast hip-hop and Snoop Dogg's career. The album not just cemented Snoop Dogg's status in the rap video game however also set the phase for his continued development as an artist, continuing to affect the sound of hip-hop for several years to come.