Up In Smoke Tour 2000 - Med Dr Dre- Snoop Dog- ... 🎯 Official

By: Legacy of the West

In the summer of 2000, the landscape of popular music shifted. While boy bands and nu-metal dominated the radio waves, a convoy of luxury buses and 18-wheelers rolled across North America, unleashing a thunderous roar that would redefine what a rap concert could be. It wasn't just a concert; it was a coronation.

The Up In Smoke Tour 2000, spearheaded by the legendary Dr. Dre alongside Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Ice Cube, was the "greatest hip-hop show ever assembled." For those lucky enough to witness it—or those discovering the bootlegs on YouTube today—it remains the gold standard for hip-hop touring.

Hip-hop tours prior to 2000 were often criticized for poor sound quality and minimal staging. Dr. Dre, a known perfectionist, changed the game entirely. The Up in Smoke Tour brought arena-level production to rap.

The stage design was a sprawling set featuring lowered lowrider cars, hydraulic lifts, and massive video screens. The show was structured as a seamless narrative, moving from sets by the supporting acts into explosive solo performances, culminating in a grand finale that felt like a family reunion.

The year 2000 was a unique time capsule. This was right before 9/11, before smartphones, before streaming. The crowd was a sea of Dickies suits, white tees, throwback jerseys, and sideways fitted caps. The air in the arena was thick—literally. The "Up in Smoke" title wasn't just a name; it was a warning. Medical marijuana was just becoming a conversation in California, but in those arenas, the "...med" was the law of the land.

Nate Dogg’s smooth hooks on "Xxplosive" and "Bitch Please" provided the melodic relief between the high-octane verses. When the lights dimmed during Snoop's "Gin and Juice," a hazy blue light washed over the crowd, creating a surreal, communal experience that modern concerts rarely replicate.

The tour ran from June to September 2000, hitting 40+ cities in the US before jumping to Europe. It grossed over $35 million, a massive sum at the time for a rap tour. But the money wasn't the point.

Before Up In Smoke, major promoters thought "rap tours" were risky, violent, or niche. After Up In Smoke, stadiums realized that Hip-Hop wasn't just a genre—it was the culture.

In an era of boy bands and nu-metal, Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg reminded the world that the chronic was still burning and that the West Coast had not just survived; it was smoking the competition.

Twenty-five years later, if you were there, you still smell the smoke. If you weren't? You've spent your entire life listening to your older cousin tell you about it.

Were you at the Up In Smoke Tour? Let us know in the comments.

The Up in Smoke Tour was a landmark West Coast hip-hop concert tour that took place in the summer of 2000. Headlined by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, the tour is widely regarded as one of the most significant events in rap history, marking the pinnacle of the G-funk era and the rise of the "Shady-Aftermath" dynasty. Tour Overview and Lineup

The tour was originally conceived under the name "The Boyz in the Hood" to promote Dr. Dre's collaborative projects and his multi-platinum album, 2001. It ran for 44 dates across the United States and Canada from June 15 to August 20, 2000. The core lineup included a powerhouse of hip-hop legends:

Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg: Headliners who performed together for the final set.

Ice Cube: Performed with his group Westside Connection (WC and Mack 10).

Eminem: A rising superstar performing tracks from his recently released The Marshall Mathers LP.

Supporting Acts: Xzibit, Warren G, Nate Dogg, Kurupt, and D12.

Surprise Guests: Notable appearances by MC Ren (for an N.W.A reunion), The D.O.C., and Truth Hurts. Production and Performance Highlights

The tour was noted for its massive production value, rivaling major rock concerts of the era. Up In Smoke Tour 2000 - med Dr dre- snoop dog- ...

The Entrance: Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre famously arrived on stage in a hydraulically enhanced '64 Impala low-rider.

Stage Design: Features included a giant talking skull, high-tech video screens, and elaborate set pieces like Ice Cube emerging from a cryogenic chamber.

Eminem’s Persona: Often appeared on stage in a Jason Voorhees hockey mask and orange prison jumpsuit, wielding a chainsaw during his set.

N.W.A Reunion: Each show typically concluded with a mini-reunion of surviving N.W.A members (Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, and MC Ren). Behind-the-Scenes and Legal Drama

The tour faced significant hurdles before it began. Nate Dogg, whose hooks were essential to the West Coast sound, was facing serious legal charges just before the tour kicked off. To ensure Nate could perform, Dr. Dre reportedly posted a $1 million bond.

Additionally, the tour was heavily scrutinized by local authorities. Venues utilized metal detectors and a heavy police presence to maintain order, following a history of violence at other major rap tours that year. Commercial and Cultural Impact

The Infamous Up In Smoke Tour 2000: A Legendary Hip-Hop Roadshow Featuring Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and More

The Up In Smoke Tour 2000 was a game-changing moment in hip-hop history, marking a pivotal point in the careers of some of the genre's most iconic figures. This massive concert tour, which kicked off in June 2000, brought together an unprecedented lineup of rap royalty, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, and Nate Dogg, among others. The tour was a monumental success, grossing millions of dollars and cementing the status of its participants as hip-hop's elite.

The Concept and Lineup

The Up In Smoke Tour was conceived by Dr. Dre and his team as a way to promote his highly anticipated album, "2001," which had been released in 1999 to critical acclaim and commercial success. The tour's lineup was a veritable who's who of hip-hop's West Coast and East Coast elite, featuring:

The Tour's Impact and Performances

The Up In Smoke Tour 2000 kicked off on June 1, 2000, in Phoenix, Arizona, and went on to visit over 40 cities across the United States, including Los Angeles, Chicago, New York City, and Miami. The tour's live performances were a testament to the chemistry and camaraderie between the artists, with each show featuring elaborate stage sets, pyrotechnics, and high-energy performances.

The tour's setlist was a veritable greatest hits collection, featuring Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg's classic collaborations, such as "Nuthin' But a G Thang" and "Still D.R.E.," as well as Eminem's rapidly growing catalog of hits, including "The Real Slim Shady" and "Stan." Mary J. Blige brought her signature soul to the tour, performing hits like "Family Affair" and "No More Drama," while Nate Dogg and Warren G added their own flavors to the mix.

The Cultural Significance

The Up In Smoke Tour 2000 was more than just a concert tour – it was a cultural phenomenon that captured the essence of hip-hop's golden era. The tour brought together artists from different coasts and backgrounds, showcasing the genre's diversity and creativity. The event was also notable for its nostalgic value, as it marked a return to the hip-hop of the 1990s, an era that was characterized by its raw energy, lyrical dexterity, and innovative production.

The tour's impact on hip-hop culture extends beyond its commercial success. The Up In Smoke Tour 2000 helped to solidify the status of its participants as hip-hop's leading figures, paving the way for future collaborations and artistic endeavors. The tour also marked a turning point in Eminem's career, as he transitioned from an underground rapper to a mainstream superstar.

The Legacy

The Up In Smoke Tour 2000 has left an enduring legacy in hip-hop history, with many regarding it as one of the greatest concert tours of all time. The tour's influence can be seen in subsequent hip-hop tours and festivals, such as the Angry Mob Tour and the Loot Festival. The event's impact on hip-hop culture extends beyond the music itself, as it helped to bring people together and create a sense of community and shared experience.

In 2014, the Up In Smoke Tour 2000 was immortalized in a live album and DVD, featuring footage from the tour's performances and behind-the-scenes interviews with the artists. The release was a testament to the tour's enduring popularity and its continued influence on hip-hop culture. By: Legacy of the West In the summer

Conclusion

The Up In Smoke Tour 2000 was a pivotal moment in hip-hop history, marking a high point in the careers of some of the genre's most iconic figures. The tour's impact on hip-hop culture extends beyond its commercial success, as it helped to bring people together and create a sense of community and shared experience. As a cultural phenomenon, the Up In Smoke Tour 2000 continues to inspire new generations of hip-hop fans and artists, cementing its place as one of the greatest concert tours of all time.

Up in Smoke Tour of 2000 is widely considered the most iconic hip-hop tour in history, serving as a massive victory lap for West Coast rap and a launching pad for the "Shady-Aftermath" era. The "Hip-Hop Super Bowl" Lineup

The tour was a traveling festival of legends, originally announced to promote Dr. Dre's collaborative album . The core headliners were: : Headlining his first-ever tour. Snoop Dogg

: Fresh off his transition to No Limit Records but reuniting with Dre. : At the peak of his early career following the release of The Marshall Mathers LP

: Bringing veteran West Coast energy and even staging mini-reunions of with MC Ren. Other prominent acts included , and groups like Westside Connection Setting a New Standard for Rap Shows

Before this tour, large-scale rap concerts often struggled with reputations for poor organization or security issues. To counter this, promoters hired production crews with experience on Pink Floyd tours. The result was a high-budget spectacle featuring: The New York Times

"Up in Smoke Tour 2000: A Historic Hip-Hop Journey with Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg"

Abstract

The Up in Smoke Tour 2000 was a groundbreaking concert tour that brought together some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and others. This paper will explore the tour's significance, its impact on the music industry, and the cultural context in which it took place.

Introduction

In 2000, Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg embarked on a summer concert tour that would become one of the most iconic and influential in hip-hop history. The Up in Smoke Tour, which took place from June to August 2000, featured a star-studded lineup, including Eminem, Nate Dogg, and others. The tour was a massive success, grossing over $30 million and cementing the status of its headliners as hip-hop legends.

The Tour's Lineup and Performances

The Up in Smoke Tour featured a diverse lineup of artists, including:

The tour's performances were marked by high-energy sets, elaborate stage designs, and special effects. The shows often featured guest appearances and collaborations between the artists, making each performance unique and memorable.

Cultural Significance and Impact

The Up in Smoke Tour 2000 was more than just a concert tour – it was a cultural phenomenon. The tour brought together some of the biggest names in hip-hop, showcasing the genre's diversity and creativity. The tour's success helped to further popularize hip-hop, paving the way for future generations of artists.

The tour also marked a significant moment in the careers of its headliners. For Dr. Dre, the tour was a triumphant return to the stage after a few years of focus on his record label, Aftermath Entertainment. For Snoop Dogg, the tour was an opportunity to showcase his growth as an artist and entrepreneur. For Eminem, the tour was a breakout moment, introducing him to a wider audience and solidifying his status as a rising star.

Legacy and Influence

The Up in Smoke Tour 2000 has had a lasting impact on the music industry. The tour's success paved the way for future hip-hop tours and festivals, including the annual Rolling Loud festival. The tour's influence can also be seen in the many artists who have cited it as an inspiration, including Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole.

Conclusion

The Up in Smoke Tour 2000 was a historic moment in hip-hop history, bringing together some of the biggest names in the genre for a summer of unforgettable performances. The tour's significance extends beyond its commercial success, representing a cultural phenomenon that helped to shape the music industry and inspire future generations of artists.

References

Up In Smoke Tour 2000 wasn't just a concert series; it was a cultural shift that solidified the "Shady Aftermath" era and showcased West Coast hip-hop at its absolute peak. The Lineup of Legends Headlined by Snoop Dogg

, the tour featured an unprecedented roster of talent including: The Icons: The Support: , Mack 10, Westside Connection, and Tha Eastsidaz famously paid $1 million in bail just to ensure

could join the tour and perform his essential hooks for tracks like "The Next Episode" and "Regulate". Cultural Impact & Legacy

In the year 2000, the landscape of hip-hop was shifting. The East Coast had dominated the late 90s, and the West Coast was still reeling from the tragic deaths of titans like Tupac Shakur and the fracturing of the Death Row Records empire. The genre needed a reminder of who built the modern industry.

Enter the Up in Smoke Tour.

Billed as the definitive hip-hop spectacle of the new millennium, the tour was a massive, high-budget production headlined by the "Holy Trinity" of West Coast rap: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Ice Cube, with a scene-stealing supporting turn from a then-rising Eminem.

It wasn't just a series of concerts; it was a cultural reset. Here is a look back at the tour that reminded the world that the West Coast had indeed "still got love for you."

If you were lucky enough to hold a ticket in 2000, you witnessed a changing of the guard. The bill read like a "Best Of" playlist:

The Up In Smoke Tour grossed over $35 million (over $55 million adjusted for 2025 inflation) and sold over 800,000 tickets. But numbers don't tell the story.

1. The Blueprint for Superstar Tours: Before this, major acts like The Rolling Stones or U2 did massive stadium tours. Rap was seen as "dangerous" for big venues. The Up In Smoke Tour proved that hip-hop could not only fill arenas but could command the same stage production budget as rock legends.

2. The "Med" Aesthetic: The tour solidified the image of Dr. Dre as the cigar-smoking kingpin, Snoop as the reggae-infused philosopher of funk, and Eminem as the angry white kid who deserved the throne.

3. The Documentary: For those who missed it, the Up in Smoke Tour DVD became a holy relic. Filmed in high quality, it allowed fans worldwide to see the chemistry between Dre, Snoop, and Em. Watching the "med" sessions on the tour bus (where legends freestyled for hours) became required viewing for aspiring rappers.

Before 2000, rap shows often involved a DJ, a microphone, and maybe a fog machine. The Up In Smoke Tour changed the production value permanently.

Upon entering the arena, fans were greeted by a massive, two-story set designed to look like a seedy Los Angeles boulevard. There were real streetlights, fire hydrants, and the facade of a lowrider shop. But the centerpiece was the "Chronic Cloud"—a massive inflatable skull with glowing red eyes that rose from the stage, blowing smoke across the entire floor.

Midway through the set, a real 1964 Chevrolet Impala (a lowrider) descended from the ceiling, bouncing on hydraulics while Snoop Dogg rapped "Nuthin' But a 'G' Thang." It was spectacle, theater, and raw hip-hop rolled into one. Were you at the Up In Smoke Tour