Have you ever listened to your favorite song after smoking a joint? People have noticed that you might find a sense of hyper-awareness of the instruments, tones, and words in music. Although this may be true, science is the main culprit to the blending of music and weed. According to Dr. Jörg Fachner, weed changes the way we perceive music. Weed might in fact be a psycho-acoustic enhancer.
Affects on Boston, Massachusetts Residents
Some local Boston residents told me about how cannabis influenced their relationship with music. One young woman told me,
‘It enhances my senses and hearing capability. When I don’t consume cannabis I don’t always hear everything in the song. I’m mainly just hearing the beat. But, when I do have cannabis I’m able to hear the lyrcis and instruments clearly. Parts that I didn’t know exsisted before, become audible and I can enjoy the songs more. Music and weed is also a theraputic experience for me.”
-Anonymous
This young woman told me she has a better listening experience after consuming cannabis. Despite her not being a musician, she says she can still break apart more components of the music after she partakes in marijuana. Later on, I spoke with a former Bostonian that wanted to share their connection with music and weed.
“It’s a calming affect. I feel like I can hear every instrument thats played. Theres a feeling of comfort, relaxation and it makes me think of positive things. I also feel more focused and able to commit to what I want to do.”
-Stephanie Cosby
Musicians’ Interactions With Music And Weed
The interactions between musicians on weed compared to your average listener might be very similar. However, musicians might be able to tap into another realm which can help their creativity and ability to produce more music. A recent Berklee College of Music graduate expressed how she felt when listening to music after smoking.
“I feel like weed really helps me feel the music on a physical level. It makes the listening experience so in depth and moving like in the 3D movies.”
-Hazel Broussard
Overall, cannabis has shown a strong potential to positively enhance the lives of music consumers. If you love music and weed, take notice next time you blend them both together. Acknowledge how you feel and let your mind, body, and soul take you on a journey.
If you’re looking for a chill playlist to vibe out to, check out this dope Spotify playlist below: