Cannabis and music have been best buds for a while, inspiring lyrics and influencing sound for decades. Join us as we dive into the deep relationship between cannabis and music, and how it’s evolved over time.
The Rise of Cannabis and Jazz in the 1920s
Let’s go back to the 1920s when jazz was on the rise. Cannabis was referred to as “tea”, and it was common for musicians to pass a joint during a performance. Jazz legends like Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, and Billie Holiday were known to get lifted, which allowed them to express themselves fully and experiment with new sounds.
In fact, one of Armstrong’s most famous songs, “Muggles,” was a code word for cannabis, an ode to his love for the herb and how it took his music to the next level.
In some clubs, there were even special “tea rooms” where patrons could go to consume cannabis while listening to jazz music. This combination of cannabis and jazz created a subculture that has been a significant influence on music and culture to this date.
Cannabis and Rock in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s
Then came rock and roll in the 1950s, somewhat influenced by jazz movement and guess who else? Mary Jane, of course.
Musicians like Bob Dylan and The Beatles were known for their cannabis advocacy, and it became a part of the rock and roll lifestyle. It evolved into a symbol of rebellion and counterculture in the 1960s and 1970s and was celebrated in music and popular culture. Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones were also known for their outspoken cannabis consumption.
The Stones even wrote a song called “We Love You” in solidarity with fans arrested for cannabis possession, while they were awaiting drug charges themselves.
Cannabis and Reggae
Reggae artists like Bob Marley, Peter Tosh, and Bunny Wailer were not only known for their music but also for their advocacy of cannabis use and legalization.
Bob Marley, the most iconic reggae artist, was a cannabis advocate and even had a strain of cannabis named after him. His music was a powerful message of love, unity, and social justice, and cannabis was a part of that message. Marley once said, “Herb is the healing of the nation,” referring to the medicinal, spiritual and economic benefits of cannabis.
“Herb is the healing of the nation”—Bob Marley
Peter Tosh, another reggae legend, was known for his outspoken support of cannabis legalization. He even wrote a song called “Legalize It,” which became an anthem for the cannabis legalization movement.
The Final Note and Why We Didn’t Include HipHop
If you’ve made it this far, you may be wondering why we haven’t discussed one of the most significant music genres in modern-day history. Hip-hop has arguably more cultural and historical ties to cannabis than any other genre of music.
HipHop made the underground mainstream in the 80s, and cannabis gained iconic status. With so much history in such a short time period, HipHop has a lot of ground to cover.
We’ll explore the connection between HipHop and cannabis in the next issue where we can take a deep dive into the significance of the sticky icky. And since most of you only skimmed the headlines, hit up this survey and let us know your go to songs for a smoke sesh and we’ll post the results.
Perhaps its the fundamental nature how both music and cannabis can change your perspective, elevate your mood, and transport you through the different layers of your imagination—there’s just something special about it.
🔥 🤯 Spark Your MoJo.
