High Times: 420 References in Popular Culture Through the Decades
As 4/20 approaches, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the influence of marijuana culture on popular media. From music to movies, TV shows, and even fashion, the impact of the plant has been undeniable. The trend has been ongoing for decades, with references and nods to cannabis culture appearing in mainstream media long before the widespread legalization efforts of today. Let’s look at how 420 has been referenced in popular culture throughout the years.
The 70s: The Birth of 420 Culture in America
The 1970s were a defining moment for marijuana culture in America as the movement to legalize cannabis began to gain momentum. The term “420” started as a discreet way for a group of high school students to communicate the time and location of their daily cannabis consumption, without alerting potential eavesdroppers.
As the movement continued to grow, references to 420 culture began appearing in music, television, and movies. One of the most notable references was in Bob Dylan’s 1975 song “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35,” which includes the chorus “Everybody must get stoned.” This line became a popular catchphrase for the counterculture movement and helped inject marijuana culture into the public eye.
The 80s: The Golden Age of Cannabis in Pop Culture
The 80s was the golden age of marijuana culture in pop culture, and the plant’s rising popularity was reflected in the media. One of the most iconic references was in the 1982 movie “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” where Sean Penn’s character, Jeff Spicoli, famously orders a pizza and answers the door with a joint in his hand. Another classic moment was the fictional duo Cheech and Chong, who became cultural icons of the era thanks to their drug-fueled comedy routines and movies.
The 90s: A Time of Transition and Emerging Trends
The 90s saw marijuana-themed content start to evolve with the changing cultural landscape. The consumption of cannabis was no longer relegated to the fringes of society, and as the taboo surrounding it started to diminish, so did the use of blatant marijuana references in pop culture. The drug started being presented as more of a casual social activity rather than an overt political statement.
One of the most iconic moments of 90s cannabis culture was in the movie “Half Baked,” which was released in 1998. The movie starred Dave Chappelle and followed the antics of a group of friends who sell marijuana to raise bail for their incarcerated friend. The movie became a cult classic and is still referenced today by 420 enthusiasts.
The 2000s: The Rise of the Internet and New Media
The new millennium brought with it a rise in internet culture and new media, and cannabis culture found a new home online. Social media and blogs helped to spread the message of marijuana advocacy and brought together like-minded individuals from around the world.
In terms of popular media, marijuana references started appearing in more mainstream TV shows, most notably in Showtime’s “Weeds.” The show followed the life of a suburban mom-turned-drug dealer and became a huge hit, running for eight seasons. The show’s success proved that references to cannabis culture could still be both entertaining and commercially successful.
The 2010s: The Legalization Movement Goes Mainstream
The 2010s were the decade that saw the legalization of cannabis go mainstream, with several states and countries legalizing or decriminalizing cannabis use. As public opinion shifted, so did the media, and marijuana culture started to become more normalized.
The plant’s presence in popular culture continued to evolve, with new 420-themed products, celebrities, and events becoming increasingly popular. The music industry saw a resurgence of marijuana references, with artists such as Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa becoming synonymous with the plant.
Conclusion: The Staying Power of 420 Culture in Popular Media
As we approach another 4/20, it’s clear that marijuana culture is not going anywhere. Its influences can be seen in everything from music and movies to even fashion trends. What started as a discreet way for a group of high school students to communicate the time and location of their daily cannabis consumption has grown into a cultural phenomenon with worldwide impact. Despite ongoing debates surrounding legalization and regulation, it’s safe to say we’ll continue to see nods and references to 420 culture in popular media for years to come.
