Introduction
“Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die” by Willie Nelson is a playful and deeply personal song that encapsulates the legendary artist’s irreverent outlook on life, death, and legacy. Released on April 20, 2012, the song appeared on Nelson’s album Heroes and features contributions from Snoop Dogg, Kris Kristofferson, and Jamey Johnson. Its release date, coinciding with the cannabis counterculture holiday “4/20,” reflects Nelson’s lifelong advocacy for marijuana legalization. The single was also made available in a special green-colored vinyl edition to celebrate Record Store Day.
The song’s lyrics carry a tongue-in-cheek request from Nelson to celebrate his passing with a spirited send-off rather than sorrow. Its humorous tone and vibrant performances elevate it from a simple introspection to a celebratory anthem, embodying Nelson’s “outlaw country” spirit. Despite its humorous premise, the song also conveys a deeper philosophy about living authentically and embracing the inevitability of life’s end with humor and grace.
Nelson first performed the song live during the unveiling of his statue in Austin, Texas, making the occasion both a celebration of his career and a nod to his unshakable individuality. Initially, the album was set to carry the same title as the single, but it was renamed Heroes to broaden its appeal among more conservative audiences. The track remains a favorite among fans, celebrating Nelson’s vibrant personality and unwavering commitment to living life on his own terms.
