The Ultimate 4/20 Playlist: R&B and Hip-Hop Tracks to Vibe To
Written by h.campbell216 on April 19, 2025
Cannabis culture has long influenced Black music, particularly within hip-hop and R&B, where artists unapologetically celebrate marijuana’s role in creative inspiration, social commentary and leisurely indulgence. From R&B smoothness to classic hip-hop bangers, these tracks perfectly encapsulate the relaxed, euphoric vibes of 4/20. Dive into these essential songs that continue to soundtrack our collective smoke sessions and reflect cannabis’ cultural resonance.
This curated selection spans eras and genres—from Kid Cudi’s introspective psychedelic rhythms and Rihanna’s sensual smoky interludes to iconic hip-hop anthems by Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa. It also highlights legendary stoner classics from Method Man & Redman, nostalgic grooves from Rick James, and global Afrobeats from Burna Boy, making it a diverse playlist for every cannabis enthusiast.
“Marijuana” – Kid Cudi (2010)
Pretty green bud, all in my blunt, oh, I need it”
Kid Cudi crafts a hypnotic ode that encapsulates marijuana’s past role in his creativity and self-reflection, blending psychedelic melodies with introspective lyricism.
“It Was a Good Day” – Ice Cube (1992)
“I had the brew, she had the chronic”
Ice Cube sets a mellow mood on this laid-back classic, painting an idyllic day that prominently features cannabis as part of life’s simple joys.
“Higher” – Rihanna (2016)
“You light my fire/Let’s stay up late and smoke a J”
Rihanna’s raw, raspy delivery on this short yet impactful ballad brings a smoky sensuality that highlights cannabis’s often pairing with intimacy.
“Smoke Break” – Chance the Rapper ft. Future (2016)
“We just been smokin’ a bowl”
Chance and Future beautifully capture the laid-back necessity of a momentary pause, framing cannabis as the ideal bridge in moments of reflection and escape.
“Smoke” – Victoria Monét & Lucky Daye (2023)
“Little fireworks that light up for me, inhale and exhale”
Victoria Monét and Lucky Daye blend jazzy R&B smoothness with luxurious imagery, seamlessly pairing intimacy and cannabis in a soulful harmony.
“James Joint” – Rihanna (2016)
“I’d rather be smoking weed whenever we breathe”
In this concise and sensual interlude, Rihanna explicitly celebrates marijuana, highlighting its role in her daily rituals and connection to her partner.
“Sativa” – Jhené Aiko ft. Rae Sremmurd (2017)
“You came through with that sativa/Indica be havin’ me stuck“
This sultry, atmospheric jam effortlessly captures cannabis as an enhancer of relaxation, creativity, and deep connections. Jhené softly states that she’s ready for an upbeat time rather than being stuck.
“Young, Wild & Free” – Snoop Dogg & Wiz Khalifa ft. Bruno Mars (2011)
“So what we smoke weed?”
An iconic anthem from hip-hop’s weed ambassadors, capturing the youthful defiance and carefree spirit that epitomizes cannabis culture.
“How High” – Method Man & Redman (1995)
“Excuse me as I kiss the sky”
A defining track in stoner rap, Method Man and Redman’s playful chemistry embodies the otherworldly nature that cannabis can often make partakers feel.
“Pass That Dutch” – Missy Elliott (2003)
“Come on, pass the dutch, baby”
Missy injects her signature high-energy production into cannabis culture, creating an infectious yet comical party anthem.
“Stay High” – Three 6 Mafia (2005)
“I gotta stay fly, I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I-I till I die”
Three 6 Mafia’s hypnotic ode to marijuana encapsulates its enduring role as both inspiration and celebration.
“Mary Jane” – Rick James (1978)
“I’m in love with Mary Jane, she’s my main thing”
Rick James delivers a soulful classic, personifying marijuana as the ultimate companion and muse, foundational in cannabis-inspired music.
“The Next Episode” – Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg & Kurupt (1999)
“Smoke weed everyday”
A cultural milestone that solidified marijuana’s place in pop culture, this iconic line is a community staple that endures beyond generations.
“Let’s Get Blown” – Snoop Dogg ft. Pharrell (2004)
“Can I get my thrills, you know you want some more”
Snoop and Pharrell’s smooth collaboration is a sophisticated soundtrack to relaxed evenings, and the indulgence in the green lettuce.
“Last Last” – Burna Boy (2022)
“I need Igbo and shayo”
Burna Boy’s global hit references “Igbo” (weed), seamlessly integrating cannabis into Afrobeats and highlighting how similar all Black cultures are to one another.
