Over the years, a number of entertainers have recorded pro-marijuana songs, some to critical acclaim.

Among them are Leave the Trees by Chezidek, Come Around by Collie Buddz, Legalize It by Bushman, The Plane Land by Richie Spice and Herbman Hustling by Sugar Minott.

Grammy winner singer Mykal Rose is the latest to pay tribute to the marijuana plant with the release of the song Marijuana on Monday, April 17.

The song, which is produced by Producer Ajal, highlights the medicinal benefits of using marijuana.

April 20, dubbed 4/20 is international counterculture holiday based on the celebration and consumption of cannabis. Locally, there are events held to highlight the significance of the day.

“As a Rastafarian the use of marijuana, or herb as we rastas call it, is an essential part of our philosophy. Therefore, we as Rastafari often express ourselves with songs about that, just as I have, to heighten awareness and share the feeling of community that it brings us,” Rose explained.

Scientists have often highlighted the medicinal value of the marijuana plant. Several countries have followed suit in decriminalising and legalising its use.

Rose, who has topped charts with hit songs as recent as last year, shared his thoughts about the medicinal benefits of marijuana.

“Well, it is an herb and plants are good for everything. At times it is used to distance my thoughts from the world around me and to re-direct that energy into life itself. It is a practice of meditation into an elevated state of being for me and each time I consume the herb a revelatory thought is reached so that is the beauty and healing of it for me personally,” said Rose.

He also made mention of working with Producer Ajal.

“Working with Producer Ajal was smooth and easy. He has put together a team which feels more like a family to work with. The positive energy helps the process along and the outcome is always the greatest. The relationship has been organic and vibes naturally with Ajal. Nice clean work is getting done and you can definitely expect more projects to follow with him.”

Rose, who sang lead on Black Uhuru’s Grammy-award winning 1984 album Anthem, is known for songs such as Shoot Out, Shine Eye Gal, Party Next Door, General Penitentiary, Solidarity and Short Temper.