15 Musicians Who Smoke Weed: From Jazz Legends to Modern Icons

Cannabis and music share a connection dating back to the 1920s jazz scene, with musicians using cannabis at higher rates than the general population. From Louis Armstrong’s pioneering advocacy to modern artists launching their own brands, musicians have shaped cannabis culture while finding creative inspiration and pain relief. Explore Herb’s extensive strain database to discover the varieties that have inspired generations of musical genius.

• You’re witnessing a century-long tradition – From 1920s jazz clubs to today’s festivals, cannabis has been integral to musical creativity for over 100 years
• Professional musicians lead the movement – Many successful musicians integrate cannabis into their creative process and wellness routines
• Medical benefits drive many musicians’ use – Some musicians report using cannabis to manage pain from playing-related disorders and performance anxiety, though evidence remains mixed
• Celebrity brands are reshaping the industry – Artists like Willie Nelson and Snoop Dogg have launched successful cannabis companies, legitimizing the market
• The stigma is fading fast – With increasing legalization and normalization, musicians no longer hide their use

Louis Armstrong called cannabis “a sort of medicine” and used it throughout his career, getting arrested in 1930 for possession. He believed it was superior to alcohol, helping him feel relaxed and creative without the negative effects of drinking. Armstrong’s advocacy was revolutionary for its time, openly discussing benefits when possession meant prison. His influence helped establish cannabis as part of jazz culture permanently.

The bebop innovator was part of the 1940s jazz scene where cannabis use was commonplace. Musicians of his era used cannabis to enhance their musical perception and manage the stress of constant touring. Gillespie’s generation helped establish the connection between improvisation and cannabis-enhanced creativity.

Willie Nelson has been a longtime cannabis advocate and launched Willie’s Reserve brand in 2016. He credits cannabis with helping him quit cigarettes and alcohol while maintaining his touring schedule. In recent years, Nelson has stopped smoking and now uses edibles for respiratory health.. Nelson’s openness helped change perceptions in conservative country music circles.

Dylan introduced The Beatles to cannabis in 1964, sparking their creative evolution. His influence spread cannabis culture through folk and rock communities during the 1960s counterculture movement. Dylan’s poetic lyrics often referenced altered consciousness and expanded awareness

Young has been a longtime advocate and his honest discussions about cannabis help older users understand how the plant has evolved. In his memoir, the 66-year-old Young wrote that he had taken the advice of his doctor to stop smoking marijuana, but quips that he’s not making any promises.

Snoop famously boasts about marathon smoking sessions. Now, he has built multiple cannabis businesses including Death Row Cannabis. His normalization of cannabis in mainstream media has been instrumental in changing public perception. Snoop’s persona proves successful people can be open cannabis users. Check out cannabis news for updates on celebrity cannabis ventures.

In a 2014 interview, Wiz Khalifa said he spent up to $10,000 monthly on cannabis and has since created his own Khalifa Kush strain. His openness about consumption on social media reaches millions of young fans, demonstrating cannabis compatibility with career success.

Method Man partnered with cannabis companies and advocates for legalization while maintaining his legendary status. His collaboration with Redman on “How High” brought cannabis comedy to mainstream audiences. Method Man represents hip-hop’s first generation of open cannabis advocates.

The group built their entire brand around cannabis advocacy, with their legendary status in cannabis culture. Their song “Hits from the Bong” became an anthem for cannabis culture. Cypress Hill proved you could build a successful career celebrating cannabis.

Rihanna has been photographed smoking numerous times without apology. Her unapologetic stance helps normalize cannabis use among successful women. She represents a generation of female artists refusing to hide their consumption.

In the 2017 documentary “Gaga: Five Foot Two,” the singer stated that she used cannabis to manage her chronic pain from having fibromyalgia. In 2024, Gaga shared that she hadn’t smoked pot in years.

Cyrus has been open about her relationship with cannabis, including periods of stopping and restarting. Her honesty about moderation helps fans understand responsible use. She demonstrates that cannabis use can evolve with life circumstances.

Marley used cannabis as a sacrament in his Rastafarian faith, making it central to his spiritual and musical practice. His legacy continues influencing musicians who see cannabis as more than recreational. Marley proved cannabis could be part of a spiritual lifestyle.

Tosh’s song “Legalize It” became the anthem for cannabis advocacy worldwide. His activism went beyond music, fighting for cannabis rights in Jamaica and globally. Tosh showed musicians could be activists for cannabis reform.

Research confirms what musicians have long known – cannabis can enhance musical experience. Studies show users report enhanced enjoyment and emotional connection to music when consuming cannabis. Musicians with playing-related disorders may find pain relief through medical cannabis, offering an alternative to opioids, though individual results vary.

The music industry’s embrace of cannabis has measurable cultural effects. Studies show correlations between cannabis references in music and youth attitudes, though causation remains debated. The key difference is that unlike other substances, while there are no documented cases of fatal overdose from cannabis alone, a fatal overdose is considered unlikely according to the CDC, though adverse effects and impairment risks exist.

As legalization expands, more musicians feel comfortable discussing their cannabis use publicly. The industry has evolved from hidden backstage sessions to boardroom cannabis deals worth millions. Today’s musicians aren’t just consumers – they’re entrepreneurs, advocates, and cultural leaders in the cannabis movement.

Young artists entering the industry find cannabis already normalized, with many integrating it into their creative process. This integration of cannabis into musical culture continues evolving as both industries mature together.

Cannabis has shaped music from jazz’s viper era through today’s EDM festivals. Jazz musicians in the 1920s used it for improvisation, rock artists in the 1960s for consciousness expansion, and hip-hop artists for creative wordplay.

Major artists have entered the cannabis business including Willie Nelson (Willie’s Reserve), Snoop Dogg (Death Row Cannabis), and Wiz Khalifa (Khalifa Kush). These celebrity brands have legitimized the industry and proven cannabis businesses can be as successful as music careers.

Female artists increasingly discuss cannabis openly, with stars like Rihanna, Lady Gaga, and Miley Cyrus refusing to hide their present or past use. They’re breaking double standards that judge women more harshly for cannabis use.

Policies vary widely by location, event, and local laws. While some festivals in legal jurisdictions have explored designated consumption areas where permitted, public consumption remains restricted in many places even where cannabis is legal. Always check each festival’s official rules and local regulations before attending. Check local dispensaries near festival venues for the best selection where legally available.