Death Row Records, founded in 1991 by Dr. Dre, Suge Knight, The D.O.C., and Dick Griffey, became one of the most influential and controversial record labels in the world, known for producing some of hip-hop’s greatest stars and albums, including Dr. Dre’s “The Chronic”, Snoop Dogg’s “Doggystyle”, and 2Pac’s “All Eyez on Me”.
Over the years, the label’s ownership has undergone various transitions. As of 2025, the owner of Death Row Records is Snoop Dogg, who acquired the brand from MNRK Music Group, which was controlled by Blackstone, in 2022.
Death Row Records Ownership Breakdown
| Shareholder / Owner | Ownership Percentage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Snoop Dogg | Majority Stake | Acquired Death Row Records in 2022 from MNRK Music Group, controlled by Blackstone. |
| MNRK Music Group | Minority Stake | Former owner of Death Row, sold the brand to Snoop Dogg in 2022. |
| Blackstone Group | Indirect Stake | Held ownership through MNRK Music Group, which sold Death Row to Snoop Dogg. |
| Artists Signed to Death Row | Varies | Includes legendary artists such as Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and 2Pac. Current artists include October London and Charlie Bereal. |
Snoop Dogg (Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr.)- Owner
- Born: October 20, 1971, Long Beach, California, USA
- Profession: Rapper, entrepreneur, media personality
- Acquisition: In February 2022, Snoop Dogg acquired the Death Row Records brand from MNRK Music Group, which was controlled by private equity funds managed by Blackstone. This acquisition came full circle, as Snoop Dogg had begun his career at Death Row in 1992 with the release of his debut album, “Doggystyle.”
- Significance: This acquisition was a symbolic and business-driven move for Snoop Dogg. It allowed him to reclaim the legacy of the label that helped launch his career, while also giving him control over the iconic catalog, which includes the works of legends like 2Pac and Dr. Dre.
- Business Ventures: Beyond music, Snoop Dogg has expanded his empire to include cannabis brands, media ventures, and tech investments. He is also involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly in youth development and education.
Death Row Records History
Death Row Records was founded in 1991 by Dr. Dre, Suge Knight, The D.O.C., and Dick Griffey. The label was a cultural force in the 1990s, largely responsible for bringing West Coast hip-hop to mainstream audiences. Death Row signed some of the biggest names in the industry, including Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, 2Pac, and Nate Dogg, and its influence still resonates in the music industry today.
- Notable Albums: The label produced groundbreaking albums such as Dr. Dre’s “The Chronic”, Snoop Dogg’s “Doggystyle”, and 2Pac’s “All Eyez on Me”.
- Bankruptcy: After facing several legal issues, Death Row Records filed for bankruptcy in 2006, and its assets were auctioned off in 2009 to WIDEawake Entertainment. In 2011, Hasbro purchased the rights to the Death Row catalog through their subsidiary eOne. In 2021, Blackstone gained control over Death Row Records, acquiring the rights through MNRK Music Group.
- Snoop Dogg’s Acquisition: The biggest shift in ownership came in 2022, when Snoop Dogg acquired Death Row Records from MNRK Music Group, and has since focused on revitalizing the label’s legacy while navigating new ways of monetizing and distributing its vast catalog.
Recent Developments
In 2025, Lydia Harris, ex-wife of co-founder Michael “Harry-O” Harris, filed a lawsuit against Snoop Dogg and Death Row Records, claiming that she was defrauded of more than $100 million and seeking to halt the use of the Death Row name until the matter is resolved.
Partnership with TikTok and SoundOn
As part of Snoop Dogg’s vision for the label, Death Row Records entered into a partnership with TikTok and SoundOn in 2023, allowing for the label’s extensive catalog to be available for streaming and promotion through social media platforms. This partnership not only helped revive the legacy of Death Row but also introduced its music to a new generation of fans.
Snoop Dogg’s Continued Impact
Snoop Dogg has been actively involved in creating new music for Death Row while also pushing forward the brand’s expansion in various sectors. He continues to collaborate with artists from different genres, further blending Death Row’s rich legacy with new waves of hip-hop and pop culture.
FAQs
1. Who owns Death Row Records?
Answer: Snoop Dogg is the current owner of Death Row Records, having acquired the brand in 2022 from MNRK Music Group.
2. Who founded Death Row Records?
Answer: Death Row Records was founded in 1991 by Dr. Dre, Suge Knight, The D.O.C., and Dick Griffey.
3. How did Snoop Dogg acquire Death Row Records?
Answer: Snoop Dogg acquired Death Row Records in 2022 from MNRK Music Group, which had previously owned the brand following its bankruptcy in 2006.
4. What is Death Row Records’ current focus?
Answer: Under Snoop Dogg’s leadership, Death Row Records has focused on revitalizing its catalog, releasing new music, and entering into partnerships with streaming platforms like TikTok and SoundOn to engage a younger, digital-savvy audience.