20 Musicians Who Dropped Weed References in Their Biggest Hits

Music and marijuana have shared a harmonious relationship for decades, with numerous artists weaving cannabis references into their chart-topping hits. Here's a curated list of 20 musicians who have subtly (and not-so-subtly) paid homage to the green muse in their most celebrated tracks:

Rick James – "Mary Jane" 

In this 1978 funk classic, Rick James personifies his affection for marijuana, referring to it as "Mary Jane." The song became one of his signature hits, reaching the top five on the R&B charts.

Luniz – "I Got 5 on It"

This 1995 anthem revolves around pooling money to purchase marijuana. Its catchy hook and relatable theme propelled it to number eight on the U.S. charts.

Afroman – "Because I Got High"

Afroman humorously narrates the consequences of his marijuana use in this 2000 track, which became a cultural phenomenon and earned him a Grammy nomination.

Kid Cudi – "Marijuana"

In this 2010 song, Kid Cudi openly expresses his love for cannabis, with the track's length cleverly timed at 4 minutes and 20 seconds—a nod to 420 culture.

Cypress Hill – "Hits from the Bong"

This track is a direct homage to cannabis culture, showcasing the group's unabashed celebration of marijuana use.

Bob Marley – "Kaya"

The reggae legend's 1978 song "Kaya" is a straightforward ode to marijuana, reflecting his Rastafarian beliefs and the herb's spiritual significance.

Black Sabbath – "Sweet Leaf"

This 1971 track is one of the earliest heavy metal songs to openly reference marijuana, with its title and lyrics celebrating the band's affection for the "sweet leaf."

The Beatles – "Got to Get You into My Life"

While it sounds like a love song, Paul McCartney later revealed that this 1966 track was an ode to marijuana, marking the band's exploration of cannabis.

Bob Dylan – "Rainy Day Women # 12 & 35"

With its chorus proclaiming, "Everybody must get stoned," this 1966 song became an anthem for cannabis enthusiasts despite its ambiguous lyrics.

Willie Nelson – "Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die"

The country icon's 2012 song is a candid declaration of his lifelong relationship with marijuana, blending humor with his signature storytelling.

Method Man & Redman – "How High"

This 1995 collaboration between the two rappers is a celebration of cannabis culture, with the title itself being a direct reference to getting high.

Snoop Dogg – "Gin and Juice"

While primarily about partying, Snoop's 1994 hit includes references to smoking "indo," showcasing his long-standing association with cannabis.

OutKast – "Crumblin' Erb"

This 1994 track discusses the struggles of life and how some turn to marijuana ("erb") as a coping mechanism, highlighting its role in their community.

Tom Petty – "You Don't Know How It Feels"

In this 1994 song, Petty sings about wanting to "roll another joint," subtly nodding to his marijuana use amidst themes of freedom and rebellion.

The Game ft. 50 Cent – "How We Do"

This 2004 track features lines about smoking "weed all day," reflecting the artists' embrace of cannabis culture within their lifestyles.

Kacey Musgraves – "High Time"

In this 2015 song, Kacey Musgraves cleverly plays with the double entendre of "high," referencing both taking it easy and indulging in marijuana.

Zac Brown Band – "Toes"

This 2008 track mentions having "weed in the water," subtly incorporating a marijuana reference into its laid-back, beachy vibe.

Eric Church – "Smoke a Little Smoke"

Released in 2010, this country song is a candid invitation to relax and indulge, with clear references to smoking marijuana.

Rihanna – "James Joint" 

In this 2016 interlude, Rihanna openly expresses her love for marijuana with lyrics like "I'd rather be smoking weed whenever we breathe."

Lady Gaga – "Mary Jane Holland"

This 2013 track sees Lady Gaga adopting the persona of "Mary Jane Holland," a playful alias referencing her affection for marijuana.

These songs not only highlight the artists' personal experiences with cannabis but also reflect their influence across diverse musical genres and eras.