Cannabis has been a source of inspiration for artists and musicians for decades. From jazz musicians in the 1920s to contemporary painters and writers, cannabis has played a significant role in creative expression. Canada, in particular, has a rich history of artists and musicians who have used cannabis to enhance their creative process.
Joni Mitchell and Cannabis for Inspiration
Joni Mitchell is a legendary singer-songwriter known for her poetic lyrics and unique musical style. She has been an influential figure in the music industry for over five decades and is often associated with the 1960s counterculture movement. Mitchell has openly discussed her use of cannabis as a source of inspiration for her music:
- Cannabis and creativity: Many artists, musicians, and writers have used cannabis as a tool to enhance their creativity and explore new perspectives. Joni Mitchell has spoken about how cannabis helped her access different parts of her mind and expand her creativity. She said, “I would smoke a joint and then stare at a blank page, and I would just go into this trance, and music would pour out of me.”
- Impact on songwriting: Mitchell’s use of cannabis is evident in many of her songs, with references to the drug appearing in lyrics and titles. For example, “Rainy Night House,” “Carey,” and “Blue” are all songs that some speculate were influenced by her cannabis use. Her ability to convey complex emotions and create vivid imagery in her lyrics is often attributed to her altered state of mind while writing.
- Reflection on life: Mitchell has also spoken about how cannabis helped her reflect on her life and gain a deeper understanding of herself and the world around her. She once said, “Marijuana has always been a gateway drug for me. As a result of using it, I’ve gone deeper into myself and my own experiences.”
- Connection to spirituality: Mitchell has also described her use of cannabis as a spiritual experience. She said it helped her feel connected to nature and the universe and opened her up to new ideas and perspectives.
- Impact on health: It’s worth noting that while Mitchell has praised cannabis for its creative and spiritual benefits, she has also spoken about the negative impact it had on her health. In an interview with Rolling Stone, she discussed how smoking cannabis led to respiratory problems and prompted her to quit smoking altogether.
The Tragically Hip and Cannabis for Inspiration
The Tragically Hip, one of Canada’s most beloved rock bands, has also openly discussed their cannabis use. Lead singer Gord Downie has mentioned in interviews that he used cannabis to help with his songwriting process. He even wrote a song titled “Weed Kings,” which talks about the history of cannabis in Canada.
Emily Carr and Cannabis for Inspiration
Emily Carr was a celebrated Canadian artist, writer, and naturalist who lived from 1871 to 1945. She is renowned for her unique and captivating artwork that often features scenes from the Pacific Northwest region of Canada.
Throughout her career, Carr sought to capture the beauty of the natural world and its many wonders. Her love for nature was so great that she became an outspoken advocate for its conservation and preservation.
In her memoir titled “Growing Pains,” Carr writes about her personal experiences with cannabis and how it helped her connect with the natural world around her.
She describes the experience as a “magic carpet ride through the forest,” where she felt a deep and profound connection with the plants, trees, and animals surrounding her. Carr writes that cannabis allowed her to see the world in a new and different way, opening up her mind to new possibilities and perspectives.
Carr’s use of cannabis was not uncommon during her time, as many artists and writers of the early 20th century experimented with drugs to expand their creativity and consciousness. For Carr, cannabis was not just a recreational drug but a tool for spiritual and artistic exploration. She believed it allowed her to tap into a deeper level of consciousness and connect with the natural world more profoundly.
Despite the controversy surrounding her use of cannabis, Carr remained a steadfast advocate for nature and its preservation. She believed that the natural world was a source of inspiration and wonder that all should protect and cherish. Carr left a lasting legacy that inspires artists and nature lovers through her artwork, writing, and activism.
Leonard Cohen and Cannabis for Inspiration
Leonard Cohen, the iconic singer-songwriter, was celebrated for his introspective and poetic lyrics. In interviews, he frequently discussed how smoking cannabis aided him in connecting with his emotions and finding inspiration for his music. As a matter of fact, he attributed some of his creative success to the drug.
Furthermore, he wrote a song titled “Everybody Knows,” widely considered one of his most well-known and acclaimed works. The song features the lyrics, “Everybody knows that you love me, baby, everybody knows that you really do, everybody knows that you’ve been faithful, ah, give or take a night or two.” The song’s lyrics are classic Cohen, with their trademark mix of dark humor, cynicism, and introspection.
Cohen’s use of cannabis was not uncommon among artists and musicians during his time. Many used drugs as a tool for creativity, and Cohen was no exception. He often discussed how smoking cannabis helped him access a deeper level of emotion and find inspiration for his music. He was also known for experimenting with other drugs, including LSD and amphetamines.
However, it’s important to note that Cohen did not advocate for drug use. He was open about his experiences but recognized the dangers of substance abuse and addiction. He once said in an interview, “I think drugs are terrible. I think they ruin people’s lives. But, on the other hand, I think they’re sometimes necessary to get through certain things.”
Leonard Cohen’s use of cannabis was a part of his creative process, but it did not define him. He was a talented songwriter and musician who used various tools and methods to create his music. His legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and fans, and his unique and poetic lyrics resonate with listeners worldwide.
Sarah McLachlan and Cannabis for Inspiration
Sarah McLachlan, a celebrated singer-songwriter, has won multiple Grammy awards for her music. In interviews, McLachlan has revealed that she uses cannabis to aid her songwriting process. She has even joked that her Grammy-winning song “Building a Mystery” was written while she was high.
Additionally, McLachlan has described how cannabis helps her to relax and clear her mind, allowing her to access her creative energy more freely. She has mentioned that smoking cannabis will let go of her inhibitions and become more open to the ideas and emotions she wants to express in her music.
While some may view her use of cannabis as controversial, McLachlan has been open and honest about her experiences. She recognizes that it’s not for everyone, but for her, it has been an effective tool in her creative process. Moreover, she acknowledges that it’s crucial to use cannabis responsibly and in moderation.
It’s also worth noting that McLachlan is not the only artist who has used cannabis as a tool for creativity. Many famous musicians, from Bob Marley to Snoop Dogg, have discussed their use of cannabis in their music and creative process. While opinions on drug use vary widely, it’s clear that for some, cannabis can be an essential part of their artistic journey.
Sarah McLachlan’s use of cannabis is just one aspect of her creative process. She is a talented musician and songwriter who has won multiple Grammy awards for her music. While her use of cannabis may be controversial to some, she has been open and honest about how it helps her to access her creativity and express herself more freely. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
Michael Snow
Michael Snow is a Canadian artist known for his experimental film and video work. In interviews, he has spoken about how cannabis has helped him with his creative process. He has mentioned that smoking cannabis allows him to see things from a different perspective and find new inspiration for his art.
Neil Young and Cannabis for Inspiration
Neil Young, a Canadian singer-songwriter inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, discussed his cannabis use in several interviews. According to Young, smoking cannabis aids him in his songwriting and creativity. He has even written a song titled “Roll Another Number,” featuring the lyrics, “I’m just aching to see my reflection in the faces of the people who don’t understand the fascination with the weed.”
In addition, Young has frequently advocated for the legalization of cannabis, citing its many benefits and uses. He has stated that cannabis has helped him access his creativity, find inspiration for his music, and deal with the stress and anxiety of life on the road.
Moreover, Young has spoken about the many medicinal benefits of cannabis and how it can be used to treat a wide range of ailments, from chronic pain to anxiety disorders. He has been a vocal supporter of medical cannabis and has advocated for its legalization and regulation.
It’s important to note that while Young is a strong proponent of cannabis, he also recognizes the potential risks and dangers of drug use. He has spoken openly about his struggles with addiction and has cautioned others to use drugs responsibly and in moderation.
Neil Young’s cannabis use is an integral part of his creative process and a deeply personal issue. He has used his platform to advocate for the legalization and regulation of cannabis, and he has spoken out about the many benefits of the drug. While opinions on cannabis use vary widely, it’s clear that for some artists like Young, it can be an essential tool in their creative journey.
Margaret Atwood
Margaret Atwood is a Canadian author who has won multiple literary awards. In interviews, she mentioned that she used cannabis in the past to help with her writing process. She has even joked that some of her writing might not make sense without the use of cannabis.
The Guess Who and Cannabis for Inspiration
The Guess Who, a Canadian rock band known for their hits, such as “American Woman” and “These Eyes,” have spoken about their use of cannabis in interviews. According to band members, cannabis played a significant role in their songwriting process. In fact, they even wrote a song titled “No Sugar Tonight/New Mother Nature,” which features the lyrics, “Lonely feeling deep inside, find a corner where I can hide, silent footsteps crowding me, sudden darkness but I can see.”
Additionally, the band has discussed how cannabis helped them to connect with their emotions and express themselves more freely in their music. They have described the experience of smoking cannabis as a way to break down barriers and tap into their creative energy. For The Guess Who, cannabis was crucial to their artistic process.
Furthermore, the band’s use of cannabis was not just a personal preference but also a reflection of the countercultural movement of the time. In the 1960s and 1970s, cannabis use was closely associated with the anti-establishment, anti-war sentiment of the era. Like many other musicians of the time, the Guess Who used cannabis to rebel against mainstream society’s norms and values.
It’s important to note that while cannabis use has been a controversial topic throughout history, it has also been a part of many cultural and artistic movements; for The Guess Who, cannabis was a way to access their creativity and express themselves more fully in their music.
The Guess Who’s use of cannabis was an essential part of their artistic process and a reflection of the countercultural movements of the time. Their music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans alike, and their legacy serves as a reminder of the power of cannabis as a tool for artistic expression.