West Coast rapper Snoop Dogg kicked off the 2024 Summer Olympics’ first-ever breakdancing competition in Paris on Friday August 9, 2024. The legendary rapper performed the Coup de Baton ceremony at Place de la Concorde, marking a historic moment for the Olympic Games.
Dressed in a US patriotic red, white, and blue tracksuit, Snoop Dogg energized the crowd with his Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hit “Drop It Like It’s Hot” playing in the background. He showcased a few dance moves to the audience’s delight before ceremonially hitting the floor with a wooden baton, signaling the start of the women’s knockout competition. B-Girls from around the world competed to secure the first gold medal in Olympic breakdancing history.
Now, breakdancing started on the East Coast in New York City in the black and latino communities in the Bronx and is widely known as one of the 5 elements of Hip Hop.
However, the competition at the Olympics featured dancers from the USA, France, Ukraine, Japan, Lithuania, the Netherlands, and more. Team USA’s Sunny Choi and Logan Edra were among the standout performers.
The men’s breakdancing contest is set to take place on Saturday, August 10. However, breakdancing won’t be included in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
The transition of the Summer Olympic Games from Paris to Los Angeles will be marked by electrifying performances from Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers at the Closing Ceremony on Sunday. These performances will be a mix of pre-taped and live segments from Los Angeles, coordinated by producer Ben Winston, who has extensive experience with live music events.
Heightened Security Concerns
Security is a significant concern for the event, especially following a thwarted terrorist attack plot during Taylor Swift’s “The Eras Tour” in Vienna where a third teen was just arrested. Authorities in Los Angeles are implementing extensive security measures to ensure the safety of the performances, addressing potential threats from air, land, and sea. Due to these concerns, the exact location of the performances is being kept confidential.
Exciting Lineup and Special Stunts
In addition to the musical acts, the Closing Ceremony will feature a much-anticipated stunt by Tom Cruise, who will perform death-defying tricks on a motorcycle in France and parachute next to the Hollywood sign in a pre-recorded segment. The performances by Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers will follow Cruise’s stunt.
The artists were chosen for their strong connections to Los Angeles. Billie Eilish, a major pop sensation, has celebrated her hometown in her work, including her 2021 concert film “Happier Than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles.” Snoop Dogg, a Long Beach native, has been a standout on-air personality for NBC during the Paris Games. The Red Hot Chili Peppers, rooted in L.A.’s punk scene, have an iconic hit, “Californication,” celebrating the city.
Looking Ahead to 2028
At the end of the ceremony, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass will officially accept the Olympic Torch, symbolizing the city’s role as the next host of the Summer Games. The 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles are scheduled to run from July 14 to July 30.
