About the song
“Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die.” Released in 2012 on his album Heroes, this song, co-written by Willie Nelson, Buddy Cannon, Rich Alves, and John Colgin, immediately captured attention not just for its catchy melody, but for its bold and characteristic lyrical content. It’s far more than just a novelty track; it’s a playful yet profound statement on mortality, a nod to his lifelong advocacy, and a final, good-humored wish from a man who has always lived by his own rules.
The lyrics of “Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die” are, in true Willie Nelson fashion, direct, humorous, and unapologetically him. The central conceit is a man’s dying wish to his loved ones: instead of a traditional burial, he’d prefer to be rolled into a joint and smoked, ensuring he’s always “right there” with his friends and family. This premise, delivered with a twinkle in his eye, cleverly combines his well-known appreciation for marijuana with a unique, laid-back approach to death. Phrases like “Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die / And if anybody asks you why / Just tell ’em it’s my last request” showcase his characteristic wit and his desire to lighten the heavy subject of passing on. It’s a celebration of life lived on one’s own terms, even in death, reflecting a philosophy of freedom and a rejection of conventional solemnity.
Willie Nelson’s vocal performance on “Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die” is delivered with a relaxed, almost conversational ease that is utterly charming. His voice, weathered and distinctive, carries the whimsical lyrics with a knowing smile. He’s joined on the track by an eclectic group of friends, including his son Lukas Nelson, Snoop Dogg, Kris Kristofferson, and Jamey Johnson, each adding their own flavor to the chorus and backing vocals. This collaborative spirit further enhances the song’s convivial, laid-back atmosphere, making it feel like a jam session among friends sharing a laugh about life’s ultimate certainty. Nelson’s delivery, though lighthearted, still carries the underlying wisdom of a man who has seen a lot and come to terms with it all.
The musical arrangement of “Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die” is pure Willie Nelson: a relaxed, acoustic-driven country-folk sound that feels like a comfortable gathering around a campfire. It features his iconic guitar “Trigger,” along with a steady, uncluttered rhythm section, and occasional contributions from the guest artists that blend seamlessly into the mix. The production is clean and organic, designed to highlight the song’s simple melody and its humorous, philosophical lyrics. It’s the kind of tune that invites you to tap your foot, smile, and maybe even reflect on life’s grander questions in a thoroughly unpretentious way.
“Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die” resonated deeply with Nelson’s vast and diverse fanbase because it was so unmistakably him. It embraced his public persona, his advocacy, and his unique worldview with humor and grace. It became an instant cult classic and a beloved addition to his canon, proving that even in his later years, Willie Nelson continued to push boundaries and entertain, leaving no doubt that he’d continue to do so, in spirit, long after he’s gone.
Video
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 leaving, 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 ’em 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
I didn’t come here and I ain’t leaving, so don’t sit around and cry
But just roll me up and smoke me when I die
And I’d go, I’ve been here long enough
So sing and tell more jokes and dance stuff
Just keep the music playing, that will be a good 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 leaving, 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
Roll me in the flames for about an hour
And 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 leaving, 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
