I’m in a bus on the Thika Super Highway, headed to Juja. It’s dark outside, but I leave my window open, loving how the wind feels against my face. My brother and I had a quick sesh before I left for home, and the THC is just now kicking in.
Gengetone music is blasting from the speakers, and as I nod my head along to the bassline, something my brother once said to me comes to mind.
“Why do artists feel the need to mention the fact that they smoke weed in every single song they write? Like, do they run out of subject matter, or what?”
I’m a musician who makes rap music, and I have mentioned weed in my songs from time to time, so I get a little defensive. I argue that it’s all about normalizing the use of cannabis.
When we spread awareness, we help people understand what cannabis is and what it isn’t, which goes a long way in reducing the stigma associated with it.
“Because otherwise, people look at us like we’re smokin’ crack!” I proclaim, passionately.
He’s not convinced.
“I can live with that. My problem is that young, influential artists are making catchy songs about ‘how great weed is’ and ten-year-old kids are dancing and singing along to them.”
I concede, saying that I see how that can be an issue, pass the joint back to him, and change the subject.
But as I sit in this matatu, vibing to the music, his point is proven. Pretty much every song alludes to smoking weed or mentions it outright.
I look around me. A group of young campus kids, drunk as sailors, are having a great time, singing along to every lyric.
But besides them, and …
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Author: Martin Mahanda / High Times
