There are ancient texts, from as early as 2700 BC, that provide evidence of the use of cannabis for recreational, religious and medicinal purposes. But a curious relationship throughout history has been that of cannabis and music.
Cannabis users can relate to that feeling of enjoyment that comes from music when you have THC in your body. There is a special synergy with that kind of stimulation that makes the songs even more pleasurable. In this article, we'll take a look at the historical entanglement of music and cannabis.
Ancient rituals:
We know for certain that cannabis has been used in rituals and ceremonies for thousands of years. Indigenous cultures around the world incorporated the plant into their spiritual practices, using its properties to enhance meditation, induce trance states and facilitate communal bonding. Music plays a crucial role in these rituals, serving as a vehicle to guide participants through transcendental experiences or unite them in a synergistic rhythm and frequency.
Jazz:
At the beginning of the 20th century, cannabis made its presence felt on the jazz scene. For a musical genre characterized by its improvisation and need for constant creativity, the effects of THC seemed ideal. Artists such as Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington were known to use marijuana to enhance their performing skills.
The psychedelic era:
The 1960s were famous for the rebellious movements of the hippies and psychedelic music. Many of these artistic creations were aided by cannabis use (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 in the 1960s, has strong ties to marijuana and Rastafari culture. Rastafarians consider the plant, which they call "ganja", as a sacred herb and a means to spiritual enlightenment. Artists such as 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, marijuana 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 cannabis on the genre.
Conclusion:
Since the emotional connection an artist or viewer can have with music is enhanced by the effects of THC, the bond created between cannabis and music becomes undeniable. Sometimes we need social interaction while consuming cannabis, so we go to our cannabis associations and pot clubs to smoke in the company of other users; but other times we just want a quiet moment alone with our favorite album. And that can be just as pleasurable as the other experiences.
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