The Cannabis Connection: Hip-Hop Artists Leading the Green Rush This 4/20
As April 20—an unofficial holiday celebrating cannabis culture—approaches, the intimate link between hip-hop and the evolving cannabis industry comes into sharp focus. For decades, rap artists have played a pivotal role in normalizing marijuana use, embedding it deeply within the cultural identity of the cannabis market.
Prominent figures like Wiz Khalifa, Snoop Dogg, and Xzibit have not only incorporated cannabis references into their music but have also transformed their influence into profitable business ventures. Together, they are helping reshape an industry that has often profited from hip-hop culture while sidelining its pioneers.
Wiz Khalifa: Elevating the Vegas Cannabis Experience
Wiz Khalifa, known for chart-toppers such as “Young, Wild & Free” and “Black and Yellow,” is propelling his cannabis brand, Khalifa Kush, into new realms. Partnering with Planet 13, the world’s largest cannabis dispensary located in Las Vegas, Khalifa has launched a unique “Store in Store” concept. The collaboration highlights premium strains, including KK, Violet Sky, and Khalifa Mints.
Larry Scheffler, Co-CEO of Planet 13, praised Khalifa Kush stating, “Khalifa Kush is known for its world-class quality and highly sought-after products, powered by proprietary genetics. With the renowned genetics from the KK team, it’s a match made in cannabis heaven.”
Wiz emphasized the importance of quality in his products, stating, “The grow team has worked hard to dial in our genetics, and we can’t wait for our customers to enjoy our newest products.” Known as a significant influencer in cannabis culture, Khalifa continues to grow his business and enhance the industry landscape.
Snoop Dogg: The GOAT Building a Global Cannabis Empire
No discussion of cannabis culture is complete without mentioning Snoop Dogg, who encapsulates the ethos of the movement with his brand S.W.E.D. (Smoke Weed Every Day). Following the successful establishment of dispensaries in Los Angeles and an Amsterdam coffee shop, Snoop recently launched SWED.com, an e-commerce platform offering a variety of hemp-derived products, smoking accessories, and exclusive merchandise.
Snoop noted the spirit of sharing inherent to 4/20, stating, “The holidays are all about sharing, and this year, I’m sharing access to S.W.E.D. with the world.” His ventures reflect a commitment to bridging the gap between music and a curated cannabis lifestyle, underscoring his lasting impact on the industry.
Xzibit: Breaking Barriers for Black Entrepreneurs
Among the trendsetters, Xzibit stands out for his candid acknowledgment of the systemic barriers faced by Black entrepreneurs in the cannabis space. Known for his hits like “X” and “Paparazzi,” Xzibit has dedicated over a decade to the cannabis business and is now launching Xzibit West Coast Cannabis, which promises to be Bel-Air’s first cannabis delivery service.
He remarked, “I’ve been in cannabis for over a decade, and retail was always part of the plan. Being a person who has seen the majority of people that look like us be hit the hardest with penalties and incarceration over this plant… if we don’t participate in the business, we do a disservice to everyone involved.”
Xzibit shed light on the difficulty of entering California’s saturated cannabis market, branding it the “hardest state for cannabis business.” Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic, affirming, “I plan on playing the long game.”
Bigger Picture: Hip-Hop’s Fight for Ownership
As hip-hop artists leverage their platforms for financial gain, the notion of true equity in the cannabis industry remains elusive. While corporate entities often capitalize on hip-hop aesthetics, artists like Wiz, Snoop, and Xzibit are dedicated to changing that narrative. They aim to use their success to foster broader access to the cannabis market, preserving the cultural legacy intertwined with the plant.
Xzibit aptly summarized this sentiment, stating, “We are the culture, and cannabis is the cultural thing. Nobody can own or trademark the plant. It’s all about how you represent the culture.”
As millions around the globe prepare to celebrate 4/20, it is essential to acknowledge the contributions of these hip-hop pioneers. They have transformed their affinity for cannabis into significant enterprises, highlighting themes of ownership, opportunity, and legacy—thus proving that the cannabis movement transcends mere consumption.
Happy 4/20, everyone! If you partake, do so responsibly!
