Marijuana and Music: Examining the Relationship
June 03, 2021
Many people know that a good song and marijuana can be a match made in heaven. Learn why that may be, and a brief, yet rich history of music and weed. We also suggest some cannabis strains to try with different music genres to help you find some bliss.
Cannabis and music go together
You may be gearing up to finally go to a live music concert with friends, make music, DJ, or enjoy listening to music while partaking in high-quality cannabis. If so, you probably know that weed and music go very nicely together.
Many songs about weed and their lyrics pay homage to this fruitful relationship. For example, “Soothe me with your caress, sweet marijuana” was sung by Gertrude Michael in 1934. Or “I’m in love with Mary Jane” from Rick James, “I Wanna Get High”, a song by Cypress Hill, and “Smoke Two Joints”, a classic stoner tune by Sublime. There are so many songs inspired by cannabis!
Cannabis and music history
Marijuana and music go way back in U.S. history perhaps starting prominently in the 1920s with the birth of Jazz music in New Orleans. You can say that smoking weed helped the jazz scene flourish, especially in the black community, by giving creativity to music production and performance. Musicians would refer to cannabis in slang terms such as 'grass', or 'reefer' such as in Cab Calloway's famous song "Reefer Man".
Louis Armstrong, a jazz musician known for his gravelly voice and distinct trumpet style also had a slang word for marijuana - 'the gage'. He used marijuana throughout his career and once said, "We always looked at pot as a sort of medicine."
Another movement in which cannabis has been a central part of their philosophy was the Beat Poets in the 1950 and '60s. Weed was definitely central to their written experiences and musical style. The Beatles were also influenced by marijuana in the 1960s. In fact, it's known that Bob Dylan introduced them to smoking cannabis in 1964.
Cannabis was also a cornerstone of the Hip Hop music movement in the 1970s and '80s but not really talked about as frequently in songs until the 1990s. Hip Hop pioneers and moguls Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg released their 1992 album 'The Chronic' as a nod to high-grade cannabis and as a reflection of the plant's popularity in L.A. Other hip-hop artists such as Method Man, Wiz Khalifa, and Kid Cudi are other high-profile proponents of marijuana as reflected in their music and business ventures.
Cannabis and music brain studies
Although many claims are anecdotal, there have been studies that help us understand why weed and music together create feelings of euphoria and connectedness.
Music sounds have been known to activate and enhance our mesolimbic dopamine system, which is the nervous system’s reward pathway where the brain releases dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in feelings of pleasure.
Marijuana activates the mesolimbic dopamine system as well. So it makes sense that the brain is rewarding us when we use weed and listen to music and associates them together over time. This also includes associating people and environments who are present at your weed and music listening experience. It may help explain why you can't stop smiling or the goosebumps on your arms when you light up and hear a beautiful song.
Cannabis also influences our perception of music. One study found that users who smoked cannabis and listened to music activated brain areas associated with increased attention to the sound but with less mental energy. This could result in being more in the present moment with music while high and with a more compressed and vivid memory of the experience.
Cannabis strains to pair with music genres
If you’re wondering whether an indica or sativa dominant cannabis strain is better while listening to music, it depends. Things like the terpenes of the strain, what you are doing, and the type of music matter. So while we know that the experience is personal to each individual, here are five of our favorite in-house strains and different music genres to try together for some good vibes.
1. Tres Kush with Trip-Hop or Lo-Fi
Tres Kush is a result of crossbreeding the heavy-hitting Pure Kush strain with the fragrant hybrid Tres Dawg strain. It touts citrus orange and sweet gassy tastes and smells combined with body relaxing effects but with a clear-headed high. Therefore, this indica dominant hybrid strain may be good to zone out, relax and listen to Trip-Hop or Lo-Fi music. It may help you feel the soothing dreamy sounds, mesmerizing instrumentals, trippy vocals, and heady beats of these genres.
2. Jack Flash with Dub, Reggae or Ska
Jack Flash may be a good sativa dominant strain to enjoy while jamming out to Dub, Reggae, or Ska music for some sunny daytime vibes. Bred originally by Sensi Seeds who have grown Jamaican strains, Jack Flash is a cross between Jack Herer, Super Skunk, and Haze. With mentally invigorating effects and floral and spicy aroma, it may greatly complement the positive energy and skank dancing these genres and artists, like Bob Marley, inspire.
3. Red Headed Stranger with Country or Rock
Red Headed Stranger is a sativa dominant strain named after the 1975 Willie Nelson album. Its effects can be energizing and uplifting and so it may be a good experience to smoke this strain while listening to the imaginative soulful songs of the album. It’s also described as great for socializing or focus, which may help you get into tantalizing guitar hooks and the energizing nature of a rock concert.
4. Mountain Thunder with Jazz or Hip Hop
Mountain Thunder is an earthy sativa dominant strain with terpinolene as a top terpene which can have sedating effects. It’s an uplifting strain but without the racy effects of some sativas so you can fully saturate into dope beats, scratches and follow invigorating raps or soulful lyrics of a Hip Hop song. Or it may help to fully absorb and feel the improvisational flow of piano notes, playful horns or smooth drums of a Jazz song.
5. Afgooey with Ambient or Acoustic Music
Afgooey is a classic indica dominant strain with piney skunky aromas that promote creativity but with calming effects. Myrcene is a top terpene in the strain that can help with muscle relaxation. So it may be good while doing some gentle yin yoga poses or before bed while you zone out to the lush electronic soundscapes or delicate drums of ambient music or soothing acoustic guitars.
We hope this history and knowledge of why weed and music go together and cannabis strains and music pairings help you find lots of happiness!
This content is not intended as medical advice. The information provided is meant to encourage cannabis education, not replace direct patient-healthcare professional relationships. Always consult your primary care physician or other healthcare provider prior to using cannabis products for treatment of a medical condition. Any statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products referenced are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Products are only available where consumption of cannabis is legal.
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You're sitting in a circle with friends, passing around a cannabis flower joint, but wait—is there a right way to do this? Welcome to the world of cannabis etiquette, where the unspoken rules of smoking marijuana can make or break your smoking experience. Let's delve into what cannabis etiquette is all about and why it's more than just "puff puff pass."
What is Cannabis Etiquette?
Cannabis etiquette encompasses the unwritten rules and social norms that govern the consumption and sharing of cannabis. It's about respect, consideration, and ensuring that everyone in the smoking circle has an enjoyable experience. Whether you're a seasoned smoker or a newbie, understanding these etiquettes can elevate your cannabis sessions to a whole new level.
Marijuana Etiquette 101
If you’ve been invited to or included in a smoke session with friends, chances are good that everyone knows you’re a chill person, so don’t stress too much. At the end of the day, not knowing all the details isn’t going to get you kicked out, especially if you approach the session like any good person would. Still, you don’t want to go into it without a clue, and that’s where knowing the rules for marijuana etiquette can really help:
Be Welcoming
When inviting others to join your smoke session, make them feel welcome and comfortable. Offer hospitality and create a warm, inclusive atmosphere. That said, nobody likes feeling pressured, especially when it comes to consuming cannabis. Respect everyone's boundaries and never force anyone to partake if they're not interested.
Don’t Pressure Anyone
This goes for all things in life—if someone isn’t interested in trying something, don’t pressure or force them. Blowing smoke in someone’s face might seem funny at the time, but it can quickly turn a session sour and get you uninvited to any future events.
Sharing is Caring
Sharing is a fundamental aspect of cannabis culture. If you're part of a group smoke session, contribute something to the mix—whether it's cannabis, snacks, or even good vibes.
Be Transparent
Honesty is key when it comes to sharing cannabis. If you’re leading the session, always inform your fellow cannabis enthusiasts about what strain they're smoking or the edibles they’re eating. Transparency builds trust and ensures that everyone knows what they're getting into. If you’re joining the session, make sure you ask questions if you’re concerned a strain might not be right for you.
Respect Roller’s Rights
If someone takes the time to roll a joint or pack a bowl, show respect for their effort. Avoid criticizing their rolling skills or messing with the joint without permission. The person who rolls the joint should always be the first one to spark it. Always.
Puff, Puff, Pass
The age-old mantra of "puff, puff, pass" is a golden rule in cannabis circles. Take two hits before passing the joint to the next person on your left to ensure everyone gets a fair share. Keep the rotation flowing smoothly to maintain a harmonious smoking experience for all.
Keep It Clean
There are two ways to keep a session clean: don’t smoke when you’re sick, and respect the smoking environment by keeping it clean and tidy. Cleanliness contributes to a pleasant atmosphere and shows consideration for your surroundings and the people in it.
Light the Right Way
When lighting a bowl, "cornering" the bowl—only lighting a portion of the cannabis—allows everyone to enjoy fresh greens. Avoid "canoeing," where one side of the bowl burns faster than the other, resulting in uneven hits.
Respect the Space
Whether you're smoking indoors or outdoors, respect the space and property of others. Avoid smoking in prohibited areas and be mindful of noise levels.
Know Your Limit
Cannabis affects everyone differently, so know your limits and consume responsibly. Pace yourself and avoid overindulging to prevent unpleasant experiences. If you notice someone overindulging, encourage them to take a break.
Answering Cannabis Etiquette FAQs
If you’re looking to join or host your first smoke session, don’t worry. We’ve got answers to questions you may have:
Do you pass a pre-roll to the left or right?
According to tradition, joints are typically passed to the left. There are a variety of possible places this tradition started, from old naval traditions to religious experiences. Wherever the first left pass originated, today, passing to the left is a simple rule that keeps the rotation consistent and prevents confusion.
What should I bring to a smoke session?
It's always appreciated when guests contribute to the session. You can offer to bring cannabis, snacks if people get the munchies, drinks, or even music to enhance the experience. If you didn’t know you were going to be joining a session, or you don’t have anything handy, just offer money. Some cash or a quick Venmo can ensure you are invited back the next time.
How many times should I hit a pre-roll before passing it?
As the saying goes, "puff, puff, pass." The first hit to try, the second hit to enjoy. Take two hits before passing the pre-roll to ensure everyone gets a turn without bogarting the joint.
Understanding Cannabis Etiquette
Good cannabis etiquette is about fostering a sense of community, respect, and camaraderie among marijuana enthusiasts. By following these unwritten rules, you can ensure that everyone has a positive and enjoyable experience during smoke sessions, and most importantly, you’ll ensure you get an invite back for next time.
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Colorado, renowned for its progressive approach to cannabis legalization, offers numerous opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy their favorite strain of green. That said, there are still rules to follow and places where you can and cannot partake in your favorite cannabis products. In this guide, we'll delve into the various spaces where you can legally consume cannabis in Colorado, helping you make the most of your experience while staying on the right side of the law.
Colorado Marijuana Laws: The Basics
To fully grasp where you can and cannot consume cannabis in Colorado, you need to be familiar with the state's marijuana laws. Breaking those rules can result in fines, community service, and worse. To make sure you’re able to keep your record clean, we'll outline some essential basics of Colorado's cannabis regulations:
Where Can You Smoke Marijuana in Colorado?
When it comes to enjoying cannabis in Colorado, your options extend far beyond your own home. The Centennial State offers several cannabis-friendly spaces for residents and tourists alike. They include:
Personal Private Property
If you're a Colorado resident, your private property is generally a safe space to consume cannabis—provided you’re not being a nuisance to your neighbors (and local laws don’t prohibit certain areas of your residence). Keeping your marijuana enjoyment within the confines of your home or property and out of the prying eyes of neighbors is perfectly acceptable.
420-Friendly Lodgings & Campgrounds
Tourists and campers can find accommodations that are cannabis-friendly. Certain lodgings and campgrounds permit cannabis consumption, creating a relaxed atmosphere for cannabis enthusiasts. Before booking your accommodations, make sure that they explicitly allow cannabis use.
Cannabis Events & Tours
In Colorado, various events and tours cater to cannabis enthusiasts, including those new to the scene. From educational cannabis tours to immersive experiences, these events provide a legal space to consume while learning more about the plant's history and culture. They also are a great way to meet other green-minded individuals who share your passion.
Consumption Lounges
Consumption lounges have been on the rise in Colorado, offering a social setting for cannabis enthusiasts. Whether you prefer to vape, smoke, or consume cannabis edibles, these lounges provide a controlled and legalized environment for enjoying your favorite products. If you’re planning on visiting one of these places, double check if you can get cannabis there, or nearby, or if you have to bring your own.
Members-Only Clubs
Members-only clubs are also emerging as safe spaces for cannabis consumption. These private clubs require membership for entry and typically provide a secure environment for enjoying your cannabis products. This is a great way to meet a dedicated group of cannabis enthusiasts who are there to have as good of a time as you are, regularly.
Where Are Consumers NOT Allowed to Enjoy Marijuana in Colorado?
While there are several cannabis-friendly spaces in Colorado, it's equally important to recognize where cannabis consumption remains prohibited. These places include:
Public Property
Consuming cannabis in public spaces, such as parks or sidewalks, is illegal—and for good reason. In public spaces, you’re around a whole variety of different people, including kids. Be sure to keep your marijuana under wraps when out in public.
National Parks & Federal Land
National parks and federal lands within Colorado are subject to federal law, which still classifies cannabis as illegal. This means that cannabis consumption in these areas is against the law, so you should definitely keep your cannabis safely stored at home for any hiking trips in national parks or on federal land.
Hotels, Cabins, Rentals
Most hotels, cabins, and rentals maintain a no-smoking policy, which applies to cannabis as well. However, some establishments offer 420-friendly accommodations, so be sure to check the rules before you book your stay. If you end up somewhere that doesn’t allow cannabis consumption, you can always ask a front desk attendant if there are places nearby where cannabis can be enjoyed.
Ski Resorts
Technically, ski resorts are either public property or on federal land. As such, these resorts in Colorado do not permit cannabis consumption on their premises. You may find private property where you can ski and enjoy your cannabis, but just remember that skiing can be dangerous, and coupling that with the effects marijuana can have on your endocannabinoid system may result in injury.
Restaurants, Cafes, Bars
Although Colorado has made significant strides in cannabis legalization, you cannot consume cannabis in most restaurants, cafes, or bars. There are some places, however, that offer patios and outdoor designated areas for consumption. If you’re interested in bringing your cannabis with you, be sure to call ahead and ask first.
Other Colorado Consumption Rules to Consider
Besides recognizing where you can and cannot consume cannabis, you should be aware of other essential rules and regulations to ensure you don’t have any unfortunate run-ins with the law. Here are a few important things to know:
Cannabis Products Cannot Leave the State
Because marijuana is still federally illegal, cannabis products, including flower, edibles, and concentrates, cannot cross state lines. It's essential to consume or dispose of any remaining products before leaving Colorado.
Understand Possession Limits
The state imposes specific possession limits for cannabis (two ounces), but there are also purchase limits. You can purchase an ounce of marijuana, eight grams of concentrates, or 800 mg of THC in one day. This is more than enough cannabis for most enthusiasts.
Check Hyper Local Laws
Whether you're smoking in Denver or Pueblo, Colorado allows individual counties and municipalities to establish their own cannabis regulations. For instance, in some places, you can’t enjoy cannabis outside, even if you’re on your own property, if your property isn’t hidden by a fence. Knowing these rules is going to be crucial to staying compliant.
Understanding Where You Can Smoke in Colorado
Navigating cannabis-friendly spaces in Colorado is fairly easy because businesses want you to be able to enjoy yourself. That said, everyone—from cannabis newbies to seasoned connoisseurs—needs to know that there are some spots you simply can’t spark up. By following state laws and respecting private property rights, you can embrace the unique cannabis culture that Colorado has to offer without getting in trouble.
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
The holidays can be one of the most stressful times of the year, but there’s one thing you don’t need to stress about—finding the perfect holiday strains for all your celebrations. Whether you’re snuggling down on a cold winter night or looking to liven up the festivities for eight fun-filled nights, we’ve got a strain for you to make this a merry marijuana Christmas and holiday season.
Winter Cannabis Terpenes
Terpenes are an often-overlooked crucial part of the things we love about cannabis strains of all varieties. They give flower its flavors and aromas, and they may also contribute to the entourage effect—the idea that all compounds in the marijuana plant come together to create the high you feel when you consume cannabis. Of course, certain terpenes are more popular than others during different seasons, so these are just a few of our favorite winter terpenes:
Pine: Candle companies are just one of the many industries that capitalize on the pine scent during the holidays. That winter forest aroma comes from pinene, a terpene found in rosemary, dill, pine trees, and yes, marijuana.
Mint: The minty flavor is everywhere in the holiday season. Where some scents are because of a single terpene, mint is a combination of minor terpenes, like thymol and methyl chavicol. Though they’re only found in small amounts in certain marijuana strains, there’s enough in there to ensure you get a minty puff with every inhale.
Cinnamon and cloves: If it has a spicy taste or aroma to it, chances are good that the caryophyllene is in there somewhere. Caryophyllene is the terpene that gives black pepper and basil its tongue-tingling taste. It’s also what gives strains like Girl Scout Cookies and Sour Diesel its peppery spark.
12 Strains for the Holidays
Forget the five golden rings and partridges in pear trees. It's time to update that classic gift list with something a little more green—these 12 strains. In no particular order, here are just some of our favorite strains that are sure to put the fa-la-la into your holiday.
Christmas Tree
For many cannabis enthusiasts, it just doesn’t feel like Christmas until you’ve got your Christmas tree up and decorated. The indica-dominant Christmas Tree strain might be our favorite take on that old tradition. It brings the sweet pine scent we love about fresh-cut trees, and it has a woodsy flavor with just a little bit of a punch to remind you this is a canna-Christmas treat. Best of all, just like Christmas is on the 25th of December, Christmas Tree packs 25% THC.
Candy Cane
Whether you’re hanging them on your tree’s boughs or munching on them after a big family dinner, candy canes are undeniably the most well-known holiday candy out there. The Candy Cane strain comes from a few of the most well-known cannabis cultivars out there: AK-47, Mango, and White Widow. Once you spark this bud, there’s no question why it’s earned its name. The flavors are sweet and minty with just a hint of berry on the back end, and the aroma smells just like you’d expect a marijuana nug named Candy Cane should. This indica-dominant strain offers THC levels ranging from 15-20%.
Snowball
An indica-dominant strain, Snowball gets its name for its frosty-looking buds that are coated with glistening trichomes. Those trichomes should be a pretty good indication of the punch Snowball packs, so you won’t be surprised when we tell you it has a THC range of 26-30%. The flavor and aroma are also high impact—a mix of sour-meets-sweet citrus with a diesel and orange aroma that leans more sour than anything.
Sugar Cookie
There’s something classic about sugar cookies that makes them a must-have for the holidays. Whether you’re decorating them with frosting and sprinkles, or sticking to a traditional recipe, they’re an uncomplicated addition to any holiday spread. The Sugar Cookie strain brings that same energy. It’s a balanced hybrid—50% sativa and 50% indica—with exactly the flavors and aromas you’d expect. Warm, syrupy vanilla and coffee-swirled with sweet cream. Where this Sugar Cookie hits a little harder is its THC levels, ranging from 20-22%.
Blue Frost
This indica-leaning strain is the product of another popular winter strain—Jack Frost—being crossed with Blue Monster. Though it's a little harder to find than others, if you see it, you’ll likely know it by the slightly blue hue of its glittery trichomes. In addition to its ornamental appearance, Blue Frost has a charcuterie flavor—cheese meets fruit with a hint of mint—and a pungent, slightly skunky aroma. Even though Blue Frost nugs are usually fairly small in size, they offer a THC level of 22%.
Permafrost
Though it has “frost” in the name, this sativa-dominant strain has nothing to do with Jack Frost or Blue Frost. Rather, Permafrost comes to us from two wildly popular and potent strains: White Widow and Trainwreck. So if the name doesn’t come from its parents, you can deduce that it’s likely the appearance of the bud that gives the impression of permafrost, and you’d be right. It is covered in crystalline trichomes that have the look of freshly rolled snowballs. Those trichomes are also responsible for the 20-23% THC levels.
Snow Cap
This balanced hybrid will make you climb to snow-covered peaks with its delightful palette and THC levels ranging from 21-24%. It also has about 4% CBD, making it a little friendlier for first-time winter strain smokers than some of the other bud on our list. Snow Cap tickles the senses with holiday-inspired sweet pine and citrus flavors and aromas that encourage you to settle in and enjoy the experience.
Vanilla Kush
You can’t have a list of holiday strains and not include Vanilla Kush. It’s the perfect complement of creamy, sweet French vanilla flavors with the addition of floral notes in its aroma. While it does have a range of 19-20% THC (and 1% CBD), cannabis enthusiasts who enjoy this strain insist on its hard-hitting nature, so if you’re new to Vanilla Kush, start slow and with a lower dose than you may otherwise have enjoyed. Like with holiday treats, it's easy to overindulge in this holiday strain if you aren’t paying attention.
Kush Mints
Bring on the after-dinner Kush Mints, the perfect post-holiday celebration strain to indulge in. This balanced hybrid strain combines mint and coffee flavors with a sweet dash of spice in its aroma to make it as enjoyable while consuming it as after consuming it. Just make sure you indulge responsibly with Kush Mints, as it offers 22-24% THC in its fat buds.
Gingerbread Cookies aka Gingerbread, Ginger Cookies, or Ginger Cookies CBD
While we know Girl Scout Cookies had a hand in making this delicious balanced hybrid strain, that’s about all we know about its history. What we do know is that Gingerbread Cookies has that classic, gingerbread house flavor and aroma. Spicy, nutty, and sweet. We also know that it has a unique THC range of 10-16% and a CBD percentage of 16%. This combination likely makes it one of the most friendly beginner strains on this list that we can almost guarantee you’re going to love.
Jack Herer aka Platinum Jack, Premium Jack, The Jack, or JH
Arguably one of the most popular sativa-dominant strains in the world, Jack Herer needs no introduction. It gets its place on this particular list thanks to its citrus pine aroma, like walking through a wintery forest. Its flavor, however, is similar to a Lemonhead—sour, sweet, and lemony that leaves a candy-like impression on the tongue. Jack Herer has a unique THC range, stretching from a moderate 15% all the way up to a super high 24%. It also has a splash of CBN at 1%.
Stock Up for the Holidays
The best strains for the holidays are the ones you like the most—so pick a few from this list or choose from your own favorite strains. No matter what, your budtender will be able to help you stock up and treat yourself for the holiday season. You may also want to pick up a few gifts for some cannabis-loving friends.
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
