Snoop Dogg Sings Otis Redding’s “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” In The Voice Finale
Snoop Dogg—the iconic rap superstar—just turned "The Voice" Season 26 finale upside down by showing he can belt out tunes with as much feeling as he spits rhymes. This was no simple guest spot: it was a sincere, emotional duet with his team finalist, Jeremy Beloate, as they performed Otis Redding's classic "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay." The audience exploded with excitement, and for a moment, listeners might have imagined themselves transported back to the golden era of rhythm and blues. The performance created the kind of unexpected wonder rarely witnessed on talent competitions – and the song selection served as a perfect homage to Otis Redding on the anniversary of his death at just 26 years of age.
Seeing Snoop become emotional earlier when Jeremy sang Jackie DeShannon's "What the World Needs Now Is Love" created an unforgettable, spine-tingling moment—comparable to those famous, emotional auditions from the early Simon Cowell days. The connection between the mentor and contestant was palpable. Though Jeremy placed third, with Michael Bublé's contestant Sofronio Vasquez winning the competition, Snoop and Jeremy created a performance that viewers will watch repeatedly for many seasons to come.
Beyond "The Voice" arena, Snoop's impact as a hip-hop giant and cultural pioneer remains unquestionable. Yet his shift to smooth singing on national television surprised many viewers—while feeling completely natural. He had shown glimpses of his melodic abilities before, but this performance marked his true emergence as a genuine vocalist. Similar to contestants who amaze us with unexpected gifts, Snoop's path mirrored Jeremy's: two artists venturing into new creative areas and emerging stronger.
Even more amazing? Earlier in the season, Snoop joined fellow judges Michael Bublé, Gwen Stefani, and Reba McEntire for an incredible version of the Eagles' "Heartache Tonight," shocking fans with his ability to match such famous singers.
Jeremy Beloate proved himself as a lasting talent. His soulful voice could carry him far beyond "The Voice" stage. Pairing with someone as experienced and versatile as Snoop gave him invaluable training, and their harmony—both musical and interpersonal—felt so genuine it recalled previous mentor-student relationships that audiences have enjoyed watching develop. They may not have won first place, but sometimes runners-up achieve greater success eventually (consider Jennifer Hudson and Adam Lambert).
Snoop Dogg proved he stands as more than a rap legend—he exists as an artist ready for transformation. Jeremy Beloate left the competition better equipped for his future endeavors. They might collaborate again, pursue individual paths, or join unexpected musical partnerships later, but fans will remember their heartfelt finale performance. This moment deserves special recognition, when hip-hop nobility and an emerging talent connected as equals and produced something truly memorable.
