Cannabis has woven itself into the fabric of entertainment culture, influencing music, movies, and sports for decades. From the jazz clubs of the early 20th century to the stages of modern music festivals, cannabis has been a silent partner in the creative processes of many artists and entertainers. Read on to learn how cannabis and creativity gave many stars the inspiration to innovate.
The Jazz Era: Reefer and Rhythm
The connection between cannabis and entertainment can be traced back to the Jazz Age. In the 1920s and 1930s, jazz musicians often referred to cannabis as “reefer.” Legendary figures like Louis Armstrong openly spoke about their use. Armstrong once said, “It really makes you feel good, man. It relaxes you, makes you forget all the bad things that happen to a Negro.” For many jazz musicians, cannabis was a way to enhance their creativity and help them connect more deeply with their music.
Cannabis was a common element in the jazz scene, contributing to the improvisational style that defined the genre. Songs like “Reefer Man” by Cab Calloway and “If You’re a Viper” by Stuff Smith highlight how cannabis influenced the culture and music of the time.
The 1960s: Counterculture and Rock 'n' Roll
Fast forward to the 1960s, and cannabis was at the heart of the counterculture movement. The Beatles, one of the most influential bands of all time, were open about their cannabis use. Paul McCartney famously said, “We were smoking marijuana for breakfast during that period. Nobody could communicate with us because it was just too hard to understand what we were on about.”
Bob Dylan also played a significant role in popularizing cannabis among musicians. His introduction of marijuana to The Beatles marked a turning point in their music, steering them towards more experimental sounds.
The 1970s and Beyond: Reggae and Hip-Hop
In the 1970s, reggae music brought cannabis to the forefront with the rise of Bob Marley. Marley, a devout Rastafarian, used cannabis as a spiritual aid. He described it as “the healing of the nation” and believed it brought him closer to his inner self and his spirituality. Marley’s music and his advocacy for cannabis had a global impact, spreading awareness and acceptance of the plant.
The influence of cannabis continued to grow with the emergence of hip-hop in the 1980s and 1990s. Artists like Snoop Dogg and Cypress Hill became synonymous with cannabis culture. Snoop Dogg, a vocal advocate for cannabis legalization, has said, “So what if I’m smokin’ weed onstage and doing what I gotta do? It’s not me shooting nobody, stabbing nobody, killing nobody. It’s a peaceful gesture and they have to respect that and appreciate that.”
Modern Day: Mainstream Acceptance
Today, cannabis has gained mainstream acceptance, with many states and countries legalizing its use. This shift has allowed entertainers to be more open about their cannabis use. Seth Rogen, a prominent actor and comedian, has built a brand around his love for cannabis. He stated, “I’ve been smoking weed every day for the last 20 years, and it has been a very positive experience in my life.”
Another vocal advocate is Woody Harrelson, who has long been open about his cannabis use and its positive impact on his acting career. Harrelson has said, “Marijuana’s about love. I think it’s a love drug, and I’ve been using it for many, many years now.” He believes that cannabis helps him relax and get into character, bringing a sense of authenticity and ease to his performances. His advocacy extends beyond personal use, as he has been involved in efforts to legalize cannabis and promote its benefits.
In sports, athletes like Megan Rapinoe and Ricky Williams have advocated for cannabis use, particularly for its potential benefits in pain management and recovery. Rapinoe, a World Cup-winning soccer player, has spoken about using CBD to manage pain and inflammation, stating, “It’s much healthier, it’s much better for you, and if it’s done right, there’s a lot of potential benefits.”
