There are ancient texts, from as early as 2700 BC, that evidence the use of cannabis for recreational, religious and medicinal purposes. But a curious relation throughout history has been that of cannabis and music.
Cannabis users can relate to that feeling of enjoyment that comes from the music when you have THC in your body. There is a special synergy with that type of stimulus that makes songs even more enjoyable. In this article we will take a look at the historical entanglement of music and cannabis
Ancient Rituals:
We know for sure that cannabis has been used in rituals and ceremonies for thousands of years. Indigenous cultures all around the world incorporated the plant into their spiritual practices, using its properties to enhance meditation, induce trance-like states, and facilitate communal bonding. Music played a crucial role in these rituals, serving as a vessel to guide participants through transcendent experiences or join them into a synergetic rhythm and frequency.
Cannabis and Jazz:
In the early 20th century, cannabis found its way into the jazz scene. For a genre of music that is characterized by its improvisation and need of constant creativity, the effects of THC seem ideal. Artists such as Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington were known to use cannabis to enhance their performance abilities.
The Psychedelic Era:
The 1960s were famous for the rebellious movements of the hippies and psychedelic music. A lot of these artistic creations were aided by the use of cannabis (among other things). Musicians such as The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and Bob Dylan openly embraced weed as a source of inspiration and a symbol of rebellion.
Reggae:
Reggae music, born in Jamaica during the 1960s, has strong ties to marijuana and Rastafarian culture. Rastafarians regard the plant, that they call «ganja,» as a sacred herb and a means to spiritual enlightenment. And artists like Bob Marley became international icons, spreading messages of social justice, spirituality, and cannabis advocacy through their music.
Hip-Hop and Cannabis:
In the late 20th century, cannabis became intertwined with hip-hop culture. Snoop Dogg, Cypress Hill, Dr. Dre and others embraced it as an integral part of their creative process and lyrical content. The laid-back vibes and introspective themes often associated with hip-hop reflect the influence of marijuana on the genre.
Schlussfolgerung:
Since the emotional connection that an artist or an spectator can have with music is enhanced by the effects of THC, the bond created between cannabis and music became undeniable. Sometimes we need a social interaction while consuming cannabis, and that is why we go to our dispensaries and weed clubs to smoke in the company of fellow weed users; but other times all we want is a quiet moment alone with our favorite album. And that can be as enjoyable as the other experiences.
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