Dr. Dre has finally opened up about his reputation as a studio perfectionist. In an enlightening interview alongside Snoop Dogg, Dre aimed to set the record straight on how he views the pursuit of perfection when creating music.
Speaking to Complex, the iconic producer admitted, “I guess you call it perfection, but I want things right. And I’ll be honest with you, [perfectionism] is just something I use to waste time — not waste time, to buy time.”
Dr. Dre emphasized that achieving absolute perfection isn’t his goal, saying, “I don’t know if anything can ever be perfect, you know? I don’t even want it to be perfect because human aren’t perfect so the music shouldn’t be.”
Joined by Snoop Dogg, the duo discussed their upcoming album, Missionary. Dre explained that the process involves approval from three key figures: himself, Snoop Dogg, and Jimmy Iovine. “If all three of us are loving it, then we go,” he noted.
Snoop chimed in, emphasizing the importance of unanimous consensus: “It can’t be two to one; it’s gotta be three to zero. It’s always perfection when it’s 3-0.”
Dre also shared his excitement for Missionary, which he believes showcases a new level of maturity in both his and Snoop’s work. Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, he confidently stated, “This one’s gonna show a different level of maturity with [Snoop’s] lyrics and with my music. I feel like this is some of the best music I’ve done in my career… I’m not playing.”
The album, which features contributions from rock legend Sting and other remarkable artists, is expected to be released in November. This release coincides with the 31st anniversary of their first full-length collaboration, Doggystyle.
Dre also revealed that they are in the final stages of mixing the album. “As soon as we finish this I have to go downstairs and start mixing. I wanted 14 songs, Snoop wants 16, so we have that thing happening [bumps his fists together],” he said. “I’m on song number 11 as far as the mixes go. I have to be done and delivered by September 1st to have a November release.”
While the label of perfectionist may have followed Dr. Dre for years, it’s clear he’s more focused on making music that feels genuine and right. With the upcoming release of Missionary, fans eagerly anticipate what promises to be some of Dre and Snoop’s best work yet.
