Dr. Dre Says Hip-Hop Today Doesn’t Inspire Him

Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s new album Missionary is finally here, and the duo is taking time to reflect on their careers while giving fans an inside look at their creative process. In a recent cover story with Complex, Dre got candid about the current state of hip-hop, admitting he doesn’t feel particularly moved by the genre’s contemporary output.

“I don’t want to be disrespectful to anybody right now, but I’m not really inspired by what’s happening with hip-hop these days,” Dre shared. “It’s not for me. I’ve always said I’m not going to disrespect it or anything like that, but I haven’t heard anything that makes me go, ‘F**k, why didn’t I do that?’ I haven’t heard that in a long time, which makes my job easy, to be honest.”

It’s a bold statement, but Dre clarified it isn’t coming from a place of negativity or disdain. The legendary producer simply feels disconnected from the current trends and sounds dominating hip-hop today.

Interestingly, Dre also revealed that he doesn’t like listening to his older material, something fans might find surprising. “I tell my family not to play it around me,” he admitted, explaining that his joy comes from the recording process itself, not dwelling on the final product.

However, Dre did give props to Kendrick Lamar, revealing that good kid, m.A.A.d city and To Pimp A Butterfly were the last albums that truly inspired him. Given that Kendrick is one of Dre’s protégés, it’s no surprise he holds those records in such high regard.

Elsewhere in the interview, Dre and Snoop reflected on their brotherhood with Eminem and 50 Cent, who joined them on the Missionary track “Gunz N Smoke.” The collaboration serves as a nod to their shared history and enduring chemistry, showcasing their bond that’s stood the test of time.

Dre’s comments might spark debate about the direction of modern hip-hop, but there’s no denying his influence and contributions to the culture. What do you think of Dre’s take on hip-hop today? Do you agree with his perspective, or are there current artists and projects that inspire you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!