About the song
Willie Nelson, a name synonymous with country music’s golden era, has gifted us with a vast catalog of songs that resonate deeply with listeners of all ages. Among his most iconic tracks is the thought-provoking and often misunderstood ballad, “Roll Me Up And Smoke Me When I Die.” Released in 1972 on his album Shotgun Willie, this song has ignited countless discussions about life, death, and the human condition.
At first glance, the title alone might seem morbid or even macabre. However, a deeper dive into the lyrics reveals a far more nuanced and philosophical perspective. Nelson, ever the poet, doesn’t present death as a fearful or tragic event, but rather as a natural part of the human experience. The image of being “rolled up and smoked” is a striking metaphor that encapsulates the cyclical nature of life and death. It suggests a sense of acceptance, even celebration, of one’s mortality.
The song’s gentle melody and Nelson’s signature raspy vocals create a soothing ambiance that belies the gravity of the subject matter. The lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and folksy wisdom, painting a picture of a simple, contented life. When Nelson sings, “I’ve lived and loved and laughed and cried,” he’s acknowledging the full spectrum of human emotions and experiences. The song’s refrain, “Roll me up and smoke me when I die,” serves as a kind of morbid humor, a way of confronting death head-on and finding solace in the absurdity of it all.
It’s important to note that while the song’s title and central metaphor might seem unconventional, the underlying message is universal. The fear of death is a fundamental part of the human condition, and Nelson’s song offers a unique perspective on this timeless theme. By inviting listeners to contemplate their own mortality, “Roll Me Up And Smoke Me When I Die” encourages us to live life to the fullest and appreciate every moment.
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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.