About the song
“Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die” is a standout track from Willie Nelson’s 2012 album, *Heroes*. This single, which debuted on April 20, 2012—a date famously known as 420 Day, celebrated within cannabis culture—represents not just a musical release but also a cultural statement. The song, co-written by Nelson along with Buddy Cannon, Rich Alves, John Colgin, and Mike McQuerry, features a unique collaboration with an impressive lineup of guest artists including Snoop Dogg, Kris Kristofferson, and Jamey Johnson.
The release of this song on 420 Day was a nod to its lyrical content and the broader cultural significance of the date. The track was the first single from Nelson’s *Heroes* album and was unveiled in a ceremonious fashion, with Nelson himself performing it during the unveiling of his statue in Austin, Texas. This momentous event added an extra layer of significance to the song’s release, intertwining it with a tribute to Nelson’s own legacy.
Initially, the album was set to be named after the single—*Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die*. However, the album title was later changed to *Heroes* due to concerns that the original name might limit its reception among more conservative sales outlets. This decision reflects Nelson’s thoughtful approach to balancing his artistic expression with commercial considerations.
To mark the special occasion of Record Store Day, the single was also released in a limited-edition green 7″ vinyl format. This version featured two distinct renditions: the album version with its star-studded lineup and a previously unreleased solo version performed solely by Willie Nelson himself. This release not only celebrated the song but also underscored Nelson’s enduring connection to his fans and the vibrant music community.
Overall, “Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die” stands as a testament to Willie Nelson’s innovative spirit and his ability to blend his personal ethos with mainstream appeal. It’s a track that resonates on multiple levels—celebrating a key cultural moment while also spotlighting Nelson’s collaborative spirit and musical legacy.
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Lyrics
Roll me up and smoke me when I die
And if anyone don’t like it, just look ’em in the eye
I didn’t come here, and I ain’t leavin’
So don’t sit around and cry
Just roll me up and smoke me when I die.
Now you won’t see no sad and teary eyes
When I get my wings and it’s my time to fly
Call my friends and tell them
There’s a party, come on by
And just roll me up and smoke me when I die.
Roll me up and smoke me when I die
And if anyone don’t like it, just look them in the eye
Say I didn’t come here, and I ain’t leavin’
So don’t sit around and cry
Just roll me up and smoke me when I die.
When I go out I’ve been here long enough
So sing and tell more jokes and dance and stuff
Just keep the music playing that’ll be as good as goodbye
Roll me up and smoke me when I die
Roll me up and smoke me when I die
And if anyone don’t like it, just look ’em in the eye
I didn’t come here, and I ain’t leavin’
So don’t sit around and cry
Just roll me up and smoke me when I die.
Hey take me out and build a roaring fire
And just roll me in the flames for about an hour
And then take me out and twist me up
And point me towards the sky
And roll me up and smoke me when I die.
Roll me up and smoke me when I die
And if anyone don’t like it, just look ’em in the eye
I didn’t come here, and I ain’t leavin’
So don’t sit around and cry
Just roll me up and smoke me when I die.
Just roll me up and smoke me when I die.