weeds

Weed & the Groove: A History of Music Inspired by the Green Stuff

The relationship between music and marijuana is as old as time itself (well, almost). From ancient rituals to modern-day bangers, the influence of cannabis on music is undeniable.

Ancient Roots

While concrete evidence is hard to come by, there’s strong reason to believe ancient cultures used cannabis in rituals involving music. The ancient Egyptians, for example, used hemp in their religious ceremonies, likely for its psychoactive properties. It’s a safe bet music played a part in those ceremonies, creating a heady atmosphere for spiritual connection.

The Rise of the Psychedelic Era

Fast forward to the 20th century and the explosion of the psychedelic movement. The 1960s saw a cultural shift, with marijuana becoming synonymous with creativity and artistic expression. Bands like The Doors and Jimi Hendrix openly embraced cannabis, and its influence is evident in their music. Hendrix, famously, used marijuana to enhance his guitar playing, achieving mind-bending sonic landscapes.

The Groove Continues

The influence of cannabis on music continued into the 70s and 80s, with reggae pioneers like Bob Marley and Peter Tosh making it a cornerstone of their sound and message. Their music was more than just a celebration of the herb; it was a powerful symbol of resistance and social justice.

The Modern Day

Today, marijuana’s place in music is more mainstream than ever. From rappers like Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa, who openly champion its use, to pop stars like Rihanna and Lady Gaga, who have referenced it in their lyrics, cannabis is no longer a taboo subject.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Willie Nelson is so famous for his love of weed that he has his own brand of marijuana?

Beyond the Hits: The Influence of Marijuana on Music

Cannabis doesn’t just influence the lyrics and sounds of music; it also fuels creativity in countless musicians. The “stoner” persona, while sometimes portrayed as lazy or unmotivated, is often associated with a heightened sense of awareness, introspection, and creativity. This is why marijuana continues to be a muse for musicians of all genres, from hip hop to jazz to folk.

Funny Fact: David Crosby of Crosby, Stills & Nash once admitted that he smoked so much weed on tour that he could barely remember the names of the songs they were playing!

The Final Note:

The relationship between weed and music is a complex and fascinating one. From its ancient roots to its modern-day popularity, cannabis continues to be a powerful influence on the sounds and stories that musicians tell. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most creative ideas come from the most unexpected places.