[Music]

Reefer Songs of the 1920s-1940s

Something that isn't discussed a lot, but should be, is the prominent amount of songs involving subjects of drugs, liquor and partying. I'm not talking about modern songs. As we all know most modern, pop songs from these days involve these things constantly, but using these subjects in music is not new!

Since 1910, song subjects steadily became more open to taboo subjects. During the beginning of the Jazz era, main society disapproved of the dancing, clubs, and music heavily. Flappers, Jazz musicians, etc. were discouraged. But, the artists of this time were already being shamed for simply having a part in the lifestyle, so when it came to decisions of subject matter for their music, many taboo subjects were explored. Actually, in my observation the songs of this time involving taboo subjects are more genuine and sincere about the artists' relationships to drugs, alcohol, and nightlife. Modern artists focus on glamor, unrealistic situations around taboo subjects that are inspired from fictional movies and tv shows. Actual experience and expression is put on the side in favor of fame-catching, attention-grabbing subjects.

The songs from the 1920s to 1940s drew inspiration from how the artists were living their lives. The artists of the early 1900s understood the ups and downs of drugs and alcohol, as well as the understanding of how society can suppress random things for illogical reasons.

So, without further ado I present to you some songs from the early 1900s having to do with REEFER.


Gertrude Michael's "Marahuana" came out in 1934. Gertrude was an American tv, film, and stage actress.

Why I LOVE it:

+ the broadway-style ballad rhythm.

+ Gertrude's control over her vocals is impressive as well as her decisions of what notes/words to lengthen.

+ There is a genuine understanding of the helpful benefits of marijuana that comes through in this. Relaxing, easing depression and anxiety, etc. all are implied in the song lyrics and her tone.


Why I press 'Skip' sometimes:

+ It gets very loud (as broadway-type songs often do) towards the middle and I always have to turn down my headphones.


LINK: Gertrude Michael - Marahuana

Rosetta Howard's "If You're A Viper" is a song a friend recommended to me. Apparently, a Viper would be the past version of a Stoner now a-days.

Why I LOVE it:

+ soft, warm jazz instrumentals

+ calming, yet intriguing vocals and lyrics

+ beautiful trumpet work

Why I press 'Skip' sometimes:

+ the quality is very grainy (as is the problem with a lot of older music)

+ There are many other versions of this song, including Fats Wallace 1943 cover which sometimes I prefer since it is in better quality to listen to.


LINK: If You're A Viper - Rosetta Howard


Larry Adler's "Smoking Reefers" from 1938 is a delightful song.

Why I LOVE it:

+ clever, truthful lyrics

+ calm mood

+ the interaction between the vocalist and piano aids to a soothing, classical flow.

Why I press 'Skip' sometimes:

+ again, the quality of this song is extremely grainy.

+ it can be boring when starting out.


LINK: Smoking Reefers - Larry Adler

Harlem Hamfats "Weed Smoker's Dream" from 1936 is a brilliant song! It combines exotic trumpet patterns, great bass and drums beat but doesn't overpower the jazzy vocals.

Why I LOVE It:

+ exotic trumpet and clarinet patterns.

+ steady, consistent bass/drums through the song.

+ Jazzy, smokey male vocals.


Why I sometimes 'Skip' it:

+ If I'm not in the mood for early 1900s music.


LINK: Weed Smoker's Dream - Harlem Hamfats

Don Redman & Orchestra's "Chant of the Weed" from 1931 starts off so sweet but then transforms into a more liberated feel with hints of more haunting/intriguing sounds thrown in here and there.

Why I LOVE it:

+ It clearly comes from personal experience.

+ The story that is told purely from instrumentals.

+ I could see it as a soundtrack piece for a historical movie.

Why I press 'Skip' sometimes:

+ If I'm not in the mood for instrumental music.


LINK: Chant of The Weed - Don Redman & Orchestra

I want to thank, warholsoup100 from youtube. Many of the early 1900 songs about drug use are there thanks to this user. They have many, many more uploaded on the account. If you want to find more music like this, go browse in warhol's uploads.

Lastly, I'll end with the upbeat "Marihuana boogie" by Lalo Guerrero (~1940s). This one is more well known because it ended up in a film soundtrack.