20 Rappers Who Smoke Weed: The Complete Cannabis Hip-Hop Culture Guide

Cannabis has been deeply intertwined with hip-hop culture, particularly since Dr. Dre’s “The Chronic” in 1992 cemented its place in mainstream hip-hop. From early underground references to today’s legitimate cannabis businesses, the plant has become an integral part of hip-hop identity. Whether you’re exploring cannabis strains or curious about the culture, this comprehensive guide covers the most influential rappers actively shaping cannabis culture.

• You’re witnessing a cultural revolution – From Dr. Dre’s “The Chronic” in 1992 popularizing cannabis themes to today’s multi-million dollar rapper-owned cannabis brands, the industry has transformed completely
• Business empires are emerging – Artists like Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, and Berner have launched successful cannabis brands, with some focusing on social equity initiatives
• Cannabis serves multiple purposes – Artists use it for creative inspiration, stress relief from touring, and brand identity, with A$AP TyY stating it helps him “articulate thoughts properly” in his music
• Legal victories matter – Cannabis legalization in New York on March 31, 2021 marked a watershed moment for East Coast hip-hop artists
• Social justice is central – Artists increasingly use platforms for cannabis advocacy and criminal justice reform, addressing arrest disparities documented by the ACLU in communities of color
• Every artist’s journey is unique – From heavy daily use to complete abstinence, successful artists demonstrate there’s no single path in hip-hop’s relationship with cannabis

Calvin Broadus Jr., better known as Snoop Dogg, stands as hip-hop’s most recognizable cannabis advocate. His business ventures include Leafs by Snoop launched in 2015 and Death Row Cannabis. Beyond personal use, Snoop has normalized cannabis in mainstream media through appearances, cooking shows with Martha Stewart, and consistent advocacy. His influence helped transform cannabis from taboo to accepted, paving the way for younger artists to be open about their consumption. The Long Beach native’s dedication to the plant spans over three decades, making him synonymous with cannabis culture itself.

B-Real and Sen Dog of Cypress Hill were among the first to make cannabis central to their artistic identity. Their 1993 hit “Hits from the Bong” became an anthem for cannabis culture, while their activism with NORML pushed for marijuana legalization long before it was mainstream. The Latino hip-hop pioneers consistently incorporated cannabis themes throughout their discography, helping normalize consumption in hip-hop. Today, B-Real runs his own cannabis company and continues advocating for reform.

The partnership between Method Man (Wu-Tang Clan) and Redman created hip-hop’s most beloved cannabis duo. Their 2001 film “How High” became a stoner comedy classic. They said they smoked real cannabis during early scenes before switching to props. Method Man’s Tical brand (named after his solo album, itself slang for cannabis) expanded into cannabis products. Their collaborative albums and comedy tours consistently celebrated cannabis culture while maintaining successful individual careers. The duo proved cannabis users could be commercially successful without compromising their advocacy.

Andre Young’s 1992 album “The Chronic” didn’t just launch careers – it permanently linked cannabis with West Coast hip-hop. The album popularized the term “chronic” for high-grade cannabis and normalized references in mainstream music. While Dre himself has been more private about personal consumption compared to proteges like Snoop, his production work created the sonic blueprint for cannabis-influenced hip-hop. The album’s cultural impact extended far beyond music, influencing fashion, language, and attitudes toward cannabis nationwide.

Dwayne Carter Jr. has been one of hip-hop’s most consistent cannabis advocates throughout his career. Known for his prolific output and creative wordplay often inspired by cannabis use, Wayne has never shied away from discussing his relationship with marijuana. His references span hundreds of songs, making him one of the genre’s most vocal proponents. The New Orleans native’s influence on younger artists helped normalize cannabis use in Southern hip-hop.

Jordan Houston has been advocating for cannabis since his Three 6 Mafia days. The Memphis legend’s “Stay Trippy” album and consistent cannabis references established him as a Southern cannabis icon. His social media presence frequently celebrates cannabis culture, and he’s been vocal about its benefits for creativity and relaxation. The Academy Award winner proves cannabis users can achieve the highest levels of entertainment success.

Cameron Thomaz said in 2014 he was spending about $10,000 monthly on cannabis products, making him one of hip-hop’s highest-profile consumers. His Khalifa Kush brand first rolled out broadly via Reef Dispensaries in Nevada/Arizona, later expanding to states including California. The Taylor Gang leader’s 2011 album “Rolling Papers” explicitly celebrated cannabis culture, while his social media presence consistently promotes 420 celebrations. His business acumen transformed personal consumption into a multi-million dollar brand, inspiring other artists to pursue similar ventures.

Tauheed Epps leveraged his cannabis use into entertainment gold with his “Most Expensivest” show, exploring luxury cannabis experiences worldwide. His GAS Cannabis Co. represents his entry into the business side, focusing on premium products. The Atlanta rapper’s approach highlights cannabis as a luxury lifestyle rather than just recreational use.

Ariyan Arslani transformed his love for cannabis and food into multimedia success. He blended food and cannabis culture through his Vice series “Fuck, That’s Delicious” and his book “Stoned Beyond Belief”. The Queens native’s approach celebrates cannabis as enhancement to life’s pleasures rather than escape. His authentic personality and genuine enthusiasm for quality cannabis resonates with audiences beyond traditional hip-hop fans.

Shante Franklin built an entire brand around the cannabis lifestyle with his Jet Life movement. The New Orleans rapper’s extensive catalog of cannabis-themed mixtapes established him as one of hip-hop’s most consistent cannabis advocates. His independent approach proved artists could build successful careers centered on cannabis culture without major label support. The underground legend’s dedication to the culture inspired countless artists to embrace their authentic selves.

Keith Cozart brought Chicago drill music and cannabis culture to the mainstream. His consistent references and open consumption established him as his generation’s cannabis icon. The influence of his early mixtapes helped normalize cannabis in Chicago’s hip-hop scene and beyond.

Quincy Hanley of Top Dawg Entertainment has been vocal about his cannabis use, often discussing how it helps with his creative process. The Los Angeles rapper’s Oxymoron album and subsequent work frequently reference cannabis culture. His honest approach to discussing both the benefits and challenges of cannabis use provides a balanced perspective.

Gilbert Milam Jr. successfully transitioned from rapper to cannabis mogul with Cookies, one of the industry’s most valuable brands according to Forbes. His business success proves hip-hop artists can build legitimate cannabis empires. The San Francisco native’s influence extends throughout California’s legal market.

Beyond Cypress Hill, Louis Freese built multiple cannabis businesses including Dr. Greenthumb’s dispensaries. His decades-long advocacy helped shape California’s legal framework. The pioneering artist continues pushing for federal legalization and social equity.

Sean Pompey consistently represents New York’s cannabis culture through music and business ventures. The Harlem native celebrated New York’s legalization on March 31, 2021 as vindication for the culture.

The A$AP Mob member explained how cannabis enhances his creative process, stating “Sometimes the weed can help me articulate my thoughts properly” in a High Times interview. His perspective represents many artists who use cannabis as a creative tool rather than recreational escape. The Harlem collective’s influence helped bring East Coast cannabis culture to new generations.

Casey Veggies explained using cannabis to cope with touring stress, noting how his tour with Mac Miller led to increased usage for relaxation. His honest discussion about using cannabis for mental health management resonates with artists facing similar pressures. The experience highlights cannabis’s role in managing entertainment industry demands.

Nayvadius Wilburn frequently references drugs in his music, with DJBooth questioning the authenticity of some claims about harder substances. While his authenticity regarding other drugs has been debated, his cannabis advocacy remains consistent. The Atlanta artist’s prolific output keeps cannabis central to modern trap music. Explore cannabis news to understand more about the culture.

La’Reonte Wright built his career explicitly around cannabis advocacy, touring globally while spreading awareness. His independent success proves cannabis-focused artists can build international audiences. The Las Vegas native’s dedication inspired global cannabis movements.

Devin Copeland represented Houston’s cannabis culture before mainstream acceptance. His laid-back style influenced Southern hip-hop’s relationship with cannabis. The underground legend’s consistency earned respect across regions.

It’s important to note that many successful hip-hop artists choose sobriety or have complicated relationships with cannabis. Artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Tyler The Creator, Eminem, Kid Cudi, and Mac Miller prove that hip-hop excellence doesn’t require cannabis consumption.

There’s no verifiable answer to who smokes “the most.” Snoop Dogg once stated that he smoked 80 joints a day. Many artists’ actual consumption levels remain private, and extreme use isn’t necessarily something to celebrate given potential dependency issues.

No, many successful rappers maintain complete sobriety. Tyler, The Creator has “never been drunk” or used cannabis, while Eminem maintains strict sobriety in recovery. Kendrick Lamar stopped using cannabis, explaining it was “never a dependency” for him.

Notable rapper-owned brands include Wiz Khalifa’s Khalifa Kush, Snoop Dogg’s Leafs by Snoop, Method Man’s Tical, and Berner’s Cookies empire. These brands range from premium flower to edibles and concentrates.

Cannabis has profoundly shaped hip-hop, with milestones like Dr. Dre’s “The Chronic” in 1992 cementing its place in mainstream culture. Artists credit cannabis with creative inspiration, stress relief, and authentic self-expression, making it integral to hip-hop’s evolution.