In Smoke Tour 2000 - Med Dr Dre- Snoop Dog- ... 'link' — Up

The Up in Smoke Tour (2000) is widely regarded as the most iconic hip-hop tour in history. It brought together West Coast legends Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Ice Cube with a meteoric Eminem at the peak of their influence. Review Highlights

Star-Studded Lineup: Beyond the headliners, the tour featured an incredible roster including Xzibit, Nate Dogg, Kurupt, Warren G, and D12.

Theatrical Production: The shows were known for high-tech, elaborate staging, featuring a giant talking skull, balls of fire, and Snoop Dogg driving a '64 Chevy low-rider onto the stage.

Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg Chemistry: Reviewers from Variety noted their compelling partnership, particularly on hits like "Still D.R.E." and "Nothin' but a G Thing".

Legendary Tributes: A emotional core of the show was a segment honoring fallen legends 2Pac, The Notorious B.I.G., and Eazy-E. Iconic Setlist (Recurring Favorites) Review: Drug use clouded concert in Tacoma - Angelfire

The Up in Smoke Tour of 2000 remains arguably the most iconic concert tour in hip-hop history. Headlined by titans like Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, and a rapidly rising Eminem, the 44-show trek across North America solidified the dominance of West Coast hip-hop and set a new gold standard for rap production and performance. The Lineup: A Hip-Hop Super Tour

The tour was initially announced in 1999 as a promotional vehicle for Dr. Dre's landmark album 2001. Originally titled "The Boyz in the Hood," the final roster read like a Hall of Fame induction ceremony: Headliners: Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. Major Acts: Ice Cube and Eminem.

Special Guests: The tour featured an expansive supporting cast including Xzibit, Nate Dogg, Warren G, MC Ren, Kurupt, Mack 10, WC, Devin the Dude, and groups like D12 and Tha Eastsidaz. Key Highlights and Performances

The tour was legendary for its massive production value, which included pyrotechnics, hydraulic low-riders, and elaborate stage sets like the 50-foot "Chronic Skull" that would descend and interact with the crowd.

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:

• Dr. Dre: The legendary producer and rapper, fresh from the success of his album "2001"
• Snoop Dogg: The smooth-talking, G-Funk-pioneering rapper and longtime collaborator of Dr. Dre
• Eminem: The young, up-and-coming rapper from Detroit, who was rapidly gaining fame for his provocative lyrics and innovative style
• Mary J. Blige: The Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, who brought her soulful voice and unmatched energy to the tour
• Nate Dogg: The versatile rapper and singer, known for his smooth flow and harmonies
• Warren G: The G-Funk mastermind and producer, who added his signature beats to the tour's performances
• Xzibit: The energetic and charismatic rapper, who was an integral part of the tour's lineup

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.

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 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

Up in Smoke Tour (2000) is widely considered one of the most legendary hip-hop tours in history, serving as a peak cultural moment for West Coast rap. Running across 44 dates in the U.S. and Canada, it grossed over $22 million and solidified the mainstream dominance of artists like Snoop Dogg The Iconic Lineup

The tour featured a "supergroup" roster that brought together multi-generational icons: Headliners: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Ice Cube. Key Performers: Xzibit, Nate Dogg, Warren G, Kurupt, and Mack 10. D12, Westside Connection, and Tha Eastsidaz. Special Guests: Appearances often included MC Ren and The D.O.C.. Memorable Highs The Stage Production:

Shows featured high-tech elements like a 15-foot talking skull, bouncing hydraulic lowriders, and elaborate pyrotechnics. N.W.A Reunion:

The encore sets frequently featured a partial N.W.A reunion with Snoop Dogg filling in for the late Eazy-E. Eminem’s Rise: The tour took place right as The Marshall Mathers LP

sat at #1, marking the exact moment Eminem transitioned into a global superstar. Collaborations: Fans witnessed live versions of classics like "Forgot About Dre," "Still D.R.E.," and "The Next Episode". Legacy and Media The tour’s energy was immortalized in a The Up in Smoke Tour DVD

, released in December 2000, which featured raw behind-the-scenes footage and multi-camera concert recordings. Despite years of rumors regarding a "sequel" tour, no official second run ever materialized, keeping the original 2000 run as a unique, unrepeatable era in hip-hop.

Detailed setlists and song performance counts from the tour can be found on Setlist.fm blog-style summary based on these facts?

"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. Up In Smoke Tour 2000 - med Dr dre- snoop dog- ...

The Tour's Lineup and Performances

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

• Dr. Dre
• Snoop Dogg
• Eminem
• Nate Dogg
• Warren G
• Xzibit
• Lenny Kravitz

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: A Summer of Hip-Hop History." Billboard, 13 May 2000.
• "Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg's Up in Smoke Tour Kicks Off." Rolling Stone, 22 June 2000.
• "Eminem on the Up in Smoke Tour: 'It Was a Dream Come True'." The Guardian, 10 August 2000.

Up in Smoke Tour (2000) was a pivotal moment in music history that transformed hip-hop from a club-and-theater genre into a high-production arena spectacle. Grossing approximately $22 million

over 44 dates, it solidified the mainstream dominance of West Coast rap and served as the global arrival for The Lineup: A Hip-Hop Supergroup

The tour functioned as a mobile festival of the industry's most influential figures at their peak. The New York Times Headliners Snoop Dogg , and a rising Supporting Cast , and groups like The Eastsidaz Significance : It offered a rare semi-reunion, with Ice Cube , and MC Ren performing together on stage Production and Atmosphere

Before this tour, rap concerts often struggled with reputations for poor sound and lack of punctuality. The Up in Smoke Tour changed this by hiring experienced rock production crews.

Here are a few options for a post about the Up In Smoke Tour (2000), ranging from a "throwback" vibe to a deep dive into why it was so legendary. Option 1: The "Hype & Energy" Post

Caption:Summer of 2000 was a different kind of heat. 🔥 💨

Before the streaming era and TikTok trends, we had the Up In Smoke Tour. This wasn't just a concert; it was a cultural takeover. 44 cities, $22 million grossed, and a lineup that will literally never be matched again:

Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg riding out in a hydraulic lowrider 🏎️

Eminem hitting the stage in a prison jumpsuit and hockey mask 🏒 Ice Cube emerging from a cryogenic chamber ❄️

Nate Dogg holding down every hook (RIP to the King of Hooks 🕊️)

If you were there, you saw history. If you weren't, the DVD recording from Worcester is the closest we’ll get to that lightning in a bottle. ⚡️

Who else still has their tour shirt? 👇#UpInSmokeTour #DrDre #SnoopDogg #Eminem #IceCube #HipHopHistory #WestCoast Option 2: The "Deep Dive" Post (Fun Fact Focused)

Caption:Did you know the Up In Smoke Tour almost lost its secret weapon before it even started? 🚬

Behind the scenes of the legendary 2000 run, Nate Dogg was facing serious legal trouble that threatened to keep him off the road. Knowing the tour wouldn't sound the same without that signature West Coast soul, Dr. Dre reportedly stepped in and paid $1 million in bail to make sure Nate could join the lineup. 💰🙌

That investment gave us live performances of "The Next Episode" and "Regulate" that still give us chills 25 years later. It was the moment West Coast hip-hop proved it could produce a tour with the same—or better—production value than the biggest rock shows in the world. Andscape still ranks it as one of the greatest tours of all time for a reason.

Tag someone who needs to go back to 2000 with you. 🕒💨#WestCoastRap #NateDogg #DrDre #2000sHipHop #HipHopLegends Option 3: Short & Punchy (Great for Reels/TikTok)

Caption:POV: It’s the year 2000 and you just got tickets to the Up In Smoke Tour. 🎫🔥

Lineup: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Ice Cube, Xzibit, Warren G, Nate Dogg, Kurupt.

No skips. No breaks. Just 130 minutes of peak Hip-Hop energy. This tour solidified Eminem as a mainstream superstar and reminded the world that Aftermath was the new empire. 👑

Is this the greatest rap tour of all time? Let’s argue in the comments. 🗣️👇#HipHop #UpInSmoke #RapLegends #Aftermath #EminemFans

The Up in Smoke Tour was more than just a concert series; it was a cultural takeover that defined the peak of the West Coast G-funk era. Spanning 44 cities in the summer of 2000, it remains one of the most legendary hip-hop tours ever assembled. The Iconic Lineup The tour featured an unprecedented roster of talent: Dr. Dre: The mastermind and headliner.

Snoop Dogg: Fresh off his transition back to the top of the charts.

Eminem: Performing at the height of The Marshall Mathers LP fever.

Ice Cube: Bringing the raw energy of West Coast gangsta rap. Support: Xzibit, Warren G, Nate Dogg, and Kurupt. Why It Was Revolutionary

🔥 The Production ValueUnlike the minimalist hip-hop shows of the 90s, this featured high-budget sets, including a giant skull, a replica of a 64’ Impala, and massive video screens showing cinematic skits.

🔊 The Sound of an EraIt served as a victory lap for 2001 and a launchpad for Eminem’s global dominance. The chemistry between Dre and Snoop was the heart of the show.

🎬 The LegacyThe tour was immortalized in a best-selling DVD, capturing the backstage chaos and the high-energy performances that solidified these artists as global icons. Detail the setlist for a specific city. Write about the backstage controversies and wild stories. Analyze the impact it had on hip-hop touring standards. The Up in Smoke Tour (2000) is widely

Up In Smoke Tour 2000 – The Most Legendary Hip-Hop Rollout of All Time

In the fall of 2000, hip-hop history was written in diesel fumes and blunt smoke. The Up In Smoke Tour didn't just cross the country – it blazed through it, leaving a trail of bass drops, blue lights, and unforgettable cameos.

Headliners:

• Dr. Dre – The doctor was in the house, orchestrating the symphony of West Coast gangsta funk.
• Snoop Dogg – Crip-walking on air, with that laid-back swagger that only the Doggfather owns.
• Eminem – The slim shady lightning rod, fresh off The Marshall Mathers LP, spitting venom and humor.
• Ice Cube – The original N.W.A don, bringing raw, unapologetic street anthems.
• Warren G & Nate Dogg (R.I.P.) – The regulators… layin' down that G-funk harmony.

Also appearing:

• Xzibit – Pimping his Restless energy before "Pimp My Ride."
• Westside Connection – Mack 10, WC & Ice Cube together, repping the hardcore left coast.
• Kurupt & Daz Dillinger – The Dogg Pound gang, holding down the raw end of Death Row's legacy.
• MC Ren – The forgotten N.W.A soldier, reminding everyone who started it all.

What went down: Massive inflatable joints, a rotating stage, Puff Daddy showing up unannounced in Detroit, and a 90-minute N.W.A reunion that nearly broke the internet before the internet was even that cool.

The verdict: If you weren't there, you can still feel the smoke. This wasn't just a concert – it was a coronation of West Coast dominance, a victory lap for 2001, and the blueprint for every stadium hip-hop tour that followed.

"Still ain't forgettin' that tour, baby. Blunts in the air forever." – Snoop Dogg (probably)

Would you like a shorter version for a flyer or an Instagram caption as well?

Up in Smoke Tour 2000: A Legendary Hip-Hop Tour

The Up in Smoke Tour 2000 was a groundbreaking concert tour that took place in 2000, featuring some of the biggest names in hip-hop at the time. The tour was headlined by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, and included guest appearances by Warren G, Nate Dogg, and Eminem, among others.

The Tour

The Up in Smoke Tour 2000 kicked off on June 15, 2000, in Phoenix, Arizona, and made its way across North America, visiting over 30 cities in total. The tour was a massive production, featuring a state-of-the-art stage, elaborate lighting and pyrotechnics, and a setlist that spanned the careers of Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg.

Performers

The tour featured a range of talented performers, including:

• Dr. Dre: The legendary rapper, producer, and hip-hop icon was in top form, performing hits like "Still D.R.E." and "Forgot About Dre."
• Snoop Dogg: Snoop was at the height of his fame in 2000, and his smooth flow and charismatic stage presence made him a crowd favorite.
• Warren G: The rapper and producer brought his signature G-Funk sound to the tour, performing hits like "Regulate" and "This D thang."
• Nate Dogg: The late rapper and singer was a key contributor to the tour, providing vocals on several tracks and delivering his signature soulful sound.
• Eminem: The young rapper was a rising star at the time, and his energetic performances and crowd-pleasing hits like "The Real Slim Shady" made him a standout on the tour.

Setlist

The setlist for the Up in Smoke Tour 2000 was a veritable greatest hits collection of Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg's biggest songs, as well as some surprises. Some of the notable tracks performed on the tour included:

• Dr. Dre: "Still D.R.E.," "Forgot About Dre," "California Love"
• Snoop Dogg: "Gin and Juice," "Drop It Like It's Hot," "Whoomp! (There It Is)"
• Warren G: "Regulate," "This D thang," "What's Love"
• Nate Dogg: "I Need a Doctor," "What's Your Fantasy"
• Eminem: "The Real Slim Shady," "Guilty Conscience," "Stan"

Legacy

The Up in Smoke Tour 2000 was a massive success, both critically and commercially. The tour grossed over $30 million and played to sold-out crowds across North America. The tour also helped to further cement Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg's status as hip-hop legends, and provided a platform for emerging artists like Eminem to gain exposure.

The tour's impact on hip-hop culture cannot be overstated. The Up in Smoke Tour 2000 was one of the first major hip-hop tours to feature a diverse range of artists and showcase the genre's growing mainstream appeal. The tour's influence can still be seen today, with many regarding it as a pivotal moment in hip-hop history.

Conclusion

The Up in Smoke Tour 2000 was a legendary hip-hop tour that brought together some of the biggest names in the genre for a series of unforgettable performances. With its all-star lineup, massive production, and historic setlist, the tour remains a standout moment in hip-hop history. If you're a fan of Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, or just hip-hop in general, the Up in Smoke Tour 2000 is definitely worth checking out.

The Lineup: A Dynasty on Stage

The roster for Up in Smoke read like a Grammy nomination list. While the headliners were Dre, Snoop, and Cube, the undercard was equally lethal. Eminem had just released The Marshall Mathers LP and was the most controversial—and popular—rapper on the planet. Xzibit was hitting his stride, blending underground credibility with mainstream appeal, largely thanks to his anthemic hit "What U See Is What U Get." The tour also featured dynamic duo Tha Eastsidaz and the vocal stylings of Nate Dogg, the hook-master who provided the soul of G-Funk.

The Performances

Ice Cube: The Original Gangsta Opening the main set, Ice Cube commanded the stage with the aggression of his N.W.A days. Performing hits like "The Nigga Ya Love to Hate" and "It Was a Good Day," Cube set the tone with high energy. His set also featured a memorable reunion with WC and Mack 10 as Westside Connection, performing their anthem "Bow Down."

Eminem: The New King If the tour was a coronation for Dre, it was a victory lap for Eminem. Dressed in his signature white tee and baggy jeans, Marshall Mathers tore through tracks like "The Real Slim Shady" and "Marshall Mathers." Despite the controversy surrounding his lyrics at the time, the crowd embraced him. A poignant moment occurred during his performance of "Stan," solidifying his status not just as a shock rapper, but as a premier storyteller.

Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg: The Dynamic Duo The heart of the show was the chemistry between Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. Performing together for the first time in years on such a scale, they revis

The Up In Smoke Tour was a landmark event in hip-hop history that brought together the titans of West Coast rap for a 44-city North American arena tour in the summer of 2000. A Hip-Hop Super Tour

The tour featured a legendary lineup that solidified the era's dominant sound. Headlined by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, the shows also featured Ice Cube and a rapidly rising Eminem, who was at the height of his "Marshall Mathers LP" fame.

Main Performers: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, Eminem, and Warren G.

Special Guests: The tour featured a "traveling hip-hop carnival" of talent, including Nate Dogg, Xzibit, Kurupt, MC Ren, Mack 10, and D12. Performance and Production

The tour was known for its high-production value, featuring elaborate stage designs such as a giant skull that asked the crowd, "Does anybody have a smoke?".

Dr. Dre's First Tour: This was Dr. Dre's first-ever national live tour.

Behind the Scenes Drama: Dr. Dre famously paid a $1 million bond to ensure Nate Dogg could perform after he was arrested shortly after the tour began.

Tributes: The tour included emotional tributes to 2Pac, specifically during stops in cities like Boston where Dre and Snoop performed "California Love". Cultural Impact and Legacy

The tour grossed over $22 million, proving that hip-hop could achieve the same arena-level commercial success as major rock bands like U2 or the Rolling Stones. It is widely considered one of the most successful and professional rap tours ever produced.

For those who couldn't attend, a professional concert film recording of the Worcester, Massachusetts show was released on DVD in late 2000, which has since been certified 6x platinum.

Here’s an engaging, story-driven text about the legendary Up In Smoke Tour (2000).

When Hip-Hop Set the World on Fire: The Up In Smoke Tour 2000

Before the era of social media rollouts and stadium-filling pop stars, there was a moment in the summer of 2000 when hip-hop proved it could not only sell out arenas—but incinerate them. The name said it all: The Up In Smoke Tour. The Tour's Impact and Performances The Up In

At a time when critics were still debating whether rap was a fad, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Ice Cube rolled out a two-and-a-half-hour clinic in dominance that changed touring forever.

The Lineup: A Mount Rushmore of West Coast (and Detroit) Chaos

Picture the scene: a massive stage designed like a gritty South Central Los Angeles street corner—streetlights, graffiti walls, and a 20-foot-tall inflatable joint that would puff "smoke" into the crowd.

• Dr. Dre was the godfather conductor, anchoring the show with the 2001 album's cinematic beats.
• Snoop Dogg glided across the stage in his signature braids and Chuck Taylors, turning "Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang" into a religious revival.
• Eminem, fresh off The Marshall Mathers LP, was the wildcard. Bleach-blonde hair, baggy white tee, and a frenetic energy that made "The Real Slim Shady" feel like a punk-rock revolt.
• Ice Cube brought the hardened OG perspective, ripping through "It Was a Good Day" and "Check Yo Self" while reminding everyone where the gangsta rap blueprint came from.
• Special guests included Xzibit, Nate Dogg (whose golden hooks tied whole medleys together), and Warren G.

The Vibe (and the Smoke Machine)

Legend has it the tour’s backstage area required its own ventilation system. Between the literal smoke machines, the fog from the inflatable joint, and the actual haze drifting up from the crowd, you could barely see the rafters. But you could feel every bass drop.

The show wasn’t just a concert; it was a narrative. It started with Dre behind the boards, then Snoop emerged from a lowrider replica. Cube would appear from a burning liquor store prop. And Eminem? He once rapped "Kill You" while being hoisted above a pit of stage divers.

Why It Still Matters

The Up In Smoke Tour grossed over $35 million—unheard of for a hip-hop tour at the time. More importantly, it shattered the industry's ceiling. Before 2000, rock bands like Kiss or The Rolling Stones had the touring monopoly. Afterward? Every rapper wanted pyrotechnics, props, and a live band.

For one summer, the coasts didn't matter (though it was proudly West Coast). Genre didn't matter. Even your mom probably heard "Forgot About Dre" on the radio.

The Up In Smoke Tour wasn't just a concert series. It was a declaration: Hip-hop was no longer a guest in the house of music. It had just burned the house down and built a bigger one.

So light it up, pass it to the left, and press play on "Still D.R.E." It’s 2000 all over again.

The Up in Smoke Tour (2000) was a landmark 44-city hip-hop tour across the United States and Canada that ran from June 15 to August 20, 2000. Headlined by Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, it featured a heavy-hitting lineup including Eminem, Ice Cube, and Xzibit. It is widely considered one of the greatest rap tours ever, solidifying the dominance of West Coast hip-hop and Eminem’s rise to mainstream superstardom. The Legendary Lineup

The tour was essentially a "family affair" of Aftermath and Priority Records artists. Headliners: Dr. Dre & Snoop Dogg.

Core Performers: Eminem (with D12), Ice Cube (with Westside Connection), and Xzibit.

Special Guests: The tour featured numerous appearances by Nate Dogg, Warren G, Kurupt, MC Ren, Mack 10, WC, Tha Eastsidaz, and Truth Hurts. Notable Performances & Highlights

The "Up in Smoke Tour" was not just a musical event but a cultural phenomenon. It showcased the camaraderie and collective talent of West Coast rappers during a period when the region was particularly influential in shaping hip-hop's mainstream sound. The tour included performances by:

1. Dr. Dre: A legendary rapper, producer, and a key figure in popularizing West Coast hip-hop.
2. Snoop Dogg: A young, talented rapper from Long Beach, California, who was already making waves with his debut album "Doggystyle."
3. Other Notable Artists: The tour also featured performances by other significant artists of the era, often including Nate Dogg, Kurupt, and sometimes special guests.

The tour was titled "Up in Smoke" as a playful reference to both marijuana culture, which was prevalent in West Coast hip-hop, and the smoking hot performances of the artists involved. It was well-received by fans and critics alike, praised for showcasing the chemistry and charisma of the artists on stage.

The "Up in Smoke Tour 2000" played a role in reviving interest in West Coast hip-hop and demonstrated the staying power and creativity of the artists involved. It remains a memorable moment in hip-hop history, celebrated for bringing together some of the genre's most iconic figures at a pivotal moment in their careers.

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.

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 Greatest Hip-Hop Heist: Revisiting the Up In Smoke Tour 2000 – med Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem & Ice Cube

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.

The Legacy: Why It Still Matters

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.

The Lineup: A Murderers’ Row of Legends

To understand the gravity of this tour, look at the roster. In 2000, every single headliner was at a career peak or inflection point:

• Dr. Dre: Fresh off the seismic success of 2001 (released late 1999), Dre was moving from legendary producer to superstar performer.
• Snoop Dogg: Rebranding from the Doggystyle era into the slick, "Too $hort" pimp-chronicle era with Tha Last Meal on the horizon.
• Eminem: Riding the white-hot, controversial wave of The Marshall Mathers LP. He was the most dangerous man in music.
• Ice Cube: The OG N.W.A member, fresh off the Next Friday soundtrack and his transition into a movie star, bringing raw West Coast grit.
• Supporting Cast: The tour also featured Warren G, MC Ren, Xzibit, Nate Dogg (RIP), and D.O.C. (providing hypeman duties). It was essentially the entire 2001 album brought to life.