There is an undeniable link forming between hip hop and CBD. It is an extension of the strong bond between musicians and cannabis. However, unlike the THC in marijuana, CBD doesn’t cause an intoxicating high. You can extract the cannabinoid from the cannabis plant, but a growing number of companies prefer to use hemp instead. Bear this in mind when you look to buy CBD topicals online, as extracts from the marijuana plant may not be permitted in your state.

One of the main reasons is legality. Cannabis isn’t federally legal, even though it is now available to MMJ cardholders in 35 states plus D.C., and recreational users in 15 states and D.C. Please note that not all of these states have a medical marijuana or recreational program in place. It can take years for everything to become ready.

In contrast, industrial hemp is now legal to grow in the United States, as long as it contains a maximum of 0.3% THC. Almost every state has either submitted a program to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or has accepted the USDA’s terms.

Although CBD itself isn’t federally legal, the vast majority of hemp grown is for the cannabidiol market. The cannabinoid is linked with benefits such as reduced anxiety and pain. This is perhaps why CBD for artists is becoming so popular. A huge array of celebrities have begun endorsing it, and hip hop entrepreneurs are looking to hop on board the gravy train.

Why Do Hip Hop Artists Use CBD?

Hip hop is the world’s largest music genre, according to experts. There is a strong link between hip hop and marijuana. Indeed, the genre became synonymous with the plant as the likes of Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre openly admitted using it. In a highly competitive and stressful industry, musicians often turn to cannabis to help calm their nerves.

However, in recent times, hip hop and CBD are becoming more closely linked. Given the relative ease with which musicians can get cannabis, it is highly unlikely that legal issues have resulted in the switch. In reality, CBD for artists is popular because it allows them to take the edge off without succumbing to an intoxicating high. Although many musicians say they have created great works while stoned, some prefer to remain sober.

In 2019, a rapper called Mr. Composition discussed his use of CBD. He said that once he used the cannabinoid, the heaviness in his chest disappeared, and he felt extremely clear-headed. Moreover, he felt happy with life and more at ease with himself. As Mr. Composition pointed out, artists can be extremely depressed individuals. He admitted having mental and physical health challenges and genuinely believed CBD for artists was positive.

When you consider the rising number of opioid overdoses in the United States, it is easy to see why hip hop and CBD is a more compelling combo.

Research Agrees with Mr. Composition

Health experts believe that there is a strong connection between depression and low serotonin levels. CBD’s possible benefit could relate to its impact on the brain’s serotonin receptors. While it doesn’t specifically boost serotonin levels, CBD could affect how the chemical receptors in the brain respond to serotonin in the system.

This review of studies, published in Frontiers in Immunology in 2018, looked at the therapeutic potential of CBD. It found that the cannabinoid had antipsychotic, anxiolytic, and neuroprotective properties. The researchers concluded that CBD offered anti-stress effects. As a result, it could reduce stress-related depression.

In an industry filled with anxious and stressed-out individuals, the combination of hip hop and CBD makes sense. The growth of the market means it is also sensible for wealthy artists to consider investing, and many have already made the leap.

Hip Hop & CBD – There’s Money to Be Made

In 2020, the global market for CBD exceeded the $1 billion mark. However, its growth has only begun. Estimates vary, but it is likely to exceed $5 billion within five years. In 2019, an article in Forbes was even more optimistic, with some market researchers claiming the CBD industry could surpass $20 billion by 2024!

Regardless of which estimate is more accurate, both indicate an industry with an incredible expansion level ahead of it. Already, hip hop stars such as Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Kurupt, and B-Real are investing money in CBD for artists. Many of them are already heavily involved in the marijuana market.

If you are looking to purchase CBD from one of these artists, don’t get lured in by name recognition alone. Please make sure the products are tested by third-party labs and have the reports to prove it. It would help if you also shopped around. The growing level of competition means prices are falling rapidly. Then again, it is worth paying a little extra to ensure you are using high-quality CBD.