The Family Roots Behind Snoop Dogg: A Story of Resilience and Influence

Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., better known to the world as Snoop Dogg, grew up surrounded by a complex family history that helped shape the man and the music icon he would become. Born on October 20, 1971, in Long Beach, California, Snoop’s upbringing was deeply influenced by his biological father Vernell Varnado, his mother Beverly Tate, and his stepfather Cordozar Calvin Broadus Sr.—each playing distinct roles in his life and legacy.

Vernell Varnado: The Vietnam Veteran and Gospel Singer

Snoop Dogg’s biological father, Vernell Varnado, was born in December 1949 in Magnolia, Mississippi. A decorated Vietnam War veteran, Vernell was drafted at age 18 and survived being shot four times, earning a Purple Heart for his service. After his military career, Vernell worked as a mail carrier for 25 years and also pursued gospel singing in the 1980s alongside his four brothers.

Although Vernell left the family when Snoop was just three months old, the two maintained a positive relationship later on. Snoop himself clarified in a 1993 interview with SPIN magazine, “Me and my father are real cool. It wasn’t like he ran out on us.” Vernell, affectionately nicknamed “Papa Snoop,” took pride in his son’s success and recognized his musical talent from a young age, recalling, “I thought he was a genius. Even when he was like 6 or 7, if music came on, he’d jump up and dance and perform all the hand movements.”

In his later years, Vernell transitioned into acting with roles in Make It Rain (2008) and All Eyez on Me (2017). He became a grandfather and entrepreneur, celebrating the opening of a smoke shop in August 2024. Despite the early distance, Vernell’s influence on Snoop’s love for music and performance is undeniable.

Cordozar Calvin Broadus Sr.: The Stepfather Behind the Name

Snoop Dogg’s stage name pays homage to his stepfather, Cordozar Calvin Broadus Sr., who was married to Beverly Tate until their divorce in 1975. Though less publicly documented than other family members, Cordozar Sr. played a significant role in raising Snoop during his formative years. His name directly inspired Snoop’s iconic moniker, solidifying his presence in the rapper’s identity and legacy.

Beverly Tate: The Spiritual Matriarch and Musical Guide

Beverly Tate, born in McComb, Mississippi, was the central figure in Snoop Dogg’s upbringing. After her divorce from Cordozar Sr., she raised Snoop largely as a single mother. Beverly’s deep involvement in church life—as a choir director and ordained evangelist—exposed Snoop to music and spirituality early on. She nurtured his talents by encouraging participation in church activities and exposing him to old-school R&B.

It was Beverly who affectionately nicknamed her son “Snoopy” because of his resemblance to the beloved Peanuts character, a name that eventually evolved into his stage persona. Beyond her influence on his music, Beverly also authored books such as Real Love and Real Love II: The Story of an Extraordinary Woman under the name Beverly Broadus Green.

Snoop credited his mother with instilling in him strong values, once saying, “My mother raised me to love people. And I feel like that’s why people love me.” Beverly Tate passed away in October 2021 at age 70, leaving behind a legacy of faith and family that deeply shaped her son.

From Vernell Varnado’s resilience as a war veteran and gospel singer, to Cordozar Broadus Sr.’s quiet but meaningful influence, and Beverly Tate’s spiritual and musical guidance, Snoop Dogg’s family story is one of complexity and love. These foundational relationships helped mold the artist who would become a cultural icon, carrying their legacy forward through his music and life.