March 20th, 2013 
James Shotwell 
The transformation of Snoop Dogg into Snoop Lion has been anything but smooth. In the months since the legendary MC first returned from Jamaica with his new identity, the media has chosen to accept his new name only when it works for headlines. If it’s reggae or somehow related to Jamaica, he’s Snoop Lion. If it’s more urban/gangster leaning, Snoop Dogg. That said, today’s entry in the ongoing saga of whether or not a major celeb can get away with a name change without being Sean Combs is a new (reggae influenced) track called “No Guns Allowed.”
Backed by a sound that hopes to find balance between current hip hop and classic reggae sensibilities, “No Guns Allowed” is a better idea on paper than in execution. The feel good vibes no doubt win you over, and the positive message matches the culture well, but once Snoop and Drake get behind the mic things seem to go awry. Snoop’s lines are trying too hard to make a significant point, while Drake’s verse feels as phoned in as his attempts to read off a Blackberry when asked to freestyle for Flex back in 2009. It’s like both MCs knew the beat was something special, but had nothing special to say themselves and instead decided to lay down verses in hopes no one else would claim the beat for themselves. You can stream “No Guns Allowed” and see if you agree, below.
The one highlight of “No Guns Allowed” comes from Snoop’s daughter, Cori B. Her spot on the track is small, but memorable, and I’m legitimately interested to hear what she creates in the future. If you want to know her history in music, click here to stream her 2012 single, “Daddy’s Girl.”
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