Psychedelics in 2016: An Amazing Year for Research

The year 2016 has had many unexpected events that has left many people shocked and speechless. Amid the chaos that has seemingly engulfed society, an amazing phenomenon has taken place—psychedelic drugs have planted their flag and received the recognition they deserve as powerful mental tools that can truly help people; they’re not just strange drugs for hippies and ravers.

THIS IS YOUR BRAIN ON ACID: SCIENTISTS PEER INTO THE TRIPPING MIND

Perhaps one of the most impressive and groundbreaking pieces of research this year was a study that analyzed the MRI’s of individuals tripping on LSD. Even when their eyes were closed, they observed activity in the visual cortex and connections between different parts of the brain that don’t normally talk to each other.

MUSHROOMS REDUCE THE FEELING OF SOCIAL REJECTION

This study found psilocybin, the active component of hallucinogenic mushrooms, may one day help as a supplementary treatment in low doses for social anxiety.

PSILOCYBIN HELPS SMOKERS QUIT LONG TERM

Researchers found psilocybin helps cigarette smokers stay clean even for 16 months after stopping treatment. Controlled doses of psilocybin during addiction therapy is enough to keep addicted smokers away from their vice.

MDMA APPROVED FOR FINAL STAGE OF CLINICAL TRIALS

This flagship project of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) has advanced considerably over the years, but the news that it was approved for the latest stage of research made headlines all over the world as people realized MDMA isn’t just a party drug anymore.

ONE-TIME MUSHROOM TRIPS IMPROVES DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY IN CANCER PATIENTS

Two back-to-back clinical trials showed that single treatment sessions with psilocybin improved terminal cancer patients outlook on life and helped them with anxiety and depression about their illness.

A LOOK INTO THE BRAIN UNCOVERS HOW PSILOCYBIN MIGHT HELP PSYCHOTHERAPY

This latest research showed how and why psilocybin causes people to take longer to recognize a negative image as being what it is, which implies it may help rid memories of their negative emotions and serve as a tool for psychotherapists.

(Image: Deserts Became Skies by prettypsychedelic via Reddit)

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Finland’s Drug Czar Busted for Hashish Smuggling

On Thursday, Finland’s former drug czar,  Jari Aarnio, was sentenced by a district court in Helsinki to a 10-year prison term on charges of smuggling nearly 800 kilograms of hashish into the country from the Netherlands.

Aarnio stepped down as head of Helsinki’s drug squad—the highest anti-narcotics post in the country—in 2013, when he was charged wth corruption in a case related to his interest in a company that sold surveillance equipment to his own force. The investigation in that case unleashed new revelations, ultimately leading to his indictment along with 12 other defendants in the hashish scheme. The ring is said to have brought in the 800 kilos (1,760 pounds) in barrels between 2011 and 2012.

The court ordered that Aarnio be taken into custody immediately, and he is now locked up in Helsinki’s Vantaa Prison.

The court had harsh words for Aarnio in its judgment, charging that he “obstructed the investigation into the import of hashish barrels in various ways,” and “unscrupulously abused his position” at the Helsinki Police Department, where he served for 30 years.

The Nordic countries generally have pretty conservative drug laws, and Finland’s are the harshest. Mere consumption of illicit drugs is punishable by up to six months’ imprisonment. If the offense is deemed to be “petty” (that is, concerning a small quantity for personal use), the penalty may be waived. But the law does not make any distinction between substances, with cannabis subject to the same penalties as heroin and cocaine.

You can keep up with all of HIGH TIMES’ news right here.

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Pair the Best Country, EDM, and Rock Songs of 2016 with These Strains

In Part 1 of our Best Songs of 2016 recap, we highlighted the chart’s top hip-hop, R&B, and pop songs of the past year and recommended some cannabis strains to pair with them. This time, we’re highlighting the best country, EDM, and rock songs of 2016 and their suggested strain pairings. No matter what genre of music you’re a fan of, we hope you ring in the new year with a playlist of your favorite tunes and some complementary bud. Happy New Year!

Top Country Songs of 2016

“H.O.L.Y.” by Florida Georgia Line

“H.O.L.Y.” is Florida Georgia Line’s lead single from their third studio album Dig Your Roots. “H.O.L.Y.” (an acronym for “High on lovin’ you”) reached the top spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, making it one of country lovers’ favorite songs of 2016.

Strain Pairing: Holy Grail Kush

Holy Grail Kush is a hybrid strain best known for its potency and high THC content. It’s perfect to pair with a song about falling so madly in love that you feel like you’re high.

“Blue Ain’t Your Color” by Keith Urban

Keith Urban is no stranger on the music charts. His song “Blue Ain’t Your Color” is about a lonely woman at the bar who’s saddened by her relationship issues. Keith Urban sings “You don’t need that guy / It’s so black and white / He’s stealin’ your thunder / Baby, blue ain’t your color.” This country music veteran proves he knows just what to say to cheer a girl up when she’s feeling blue.

Strain Pairing: Blue Sky

The indica-dominant hybrid Blue Sky pairs with the song “Blue Ain’t Your Color” with its balanced properties, producing a mellow, uplifting high. Blue Sky is the type of strain you smoke and it immediately melts your stress away, leaving you grinning from ear to ear.

“Sleep Without You” by Brett Young

Country music’s newest heartthrob Brett Young hails from Orange County, California. He released his self-titled EP in 2016 and the lead single, “Sleep Without You,” immediately climbed the country music charts. Young’s single peaked at the No.3 spot on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs Chart.

Strain Pairing: Kryptonite

While Brett Young may sing about having a hard time falling asleep without his lady by his side, this powerful indica-dominant strain might just be his “kryptonite” when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep. With THC levels known to reach around 25% potency, I bet this strain could help the heartthrob fall into a deep slumber.

“My Church” by Maren Morris

Maren Morris’ debut single “My Church” was one of the most talked about country songs of 2016. This new country artist is nominated for four Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist and Best Country Song. “My Church” became a favorite among country music enthusiasts because of the song’s authentic feel and Maren’s amazing vocal performance on the song, showcasing just how talented she truly is.

Strain Pairing: Church OG

Church OG is an indica strain best known for its powerful effects on the body and long-lasting cerebral effects. It goes well with the powerful song and message Maren delivers in “My Church.”

“Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw

Country music superstar Tim McGraw’s song “Humble and Kind” won this year’s award for Song of the Year at the 2016 Country Music Association Awards. The song is a beautiful reminder of one of the most important lessons you can learn in this lifetime: Be humble and kind to everyone you come across.

Strain Pairing: Mr. Nice

This strain will creep up on you and deliver a feel-good sensation throughout your body. You’ll be humble and kind to everyone around you while high on Mr. Nice.

Top EDM Songs of 2016

“Closer” by The Chainsmokers

2016 was a great year for The Chainsmokers. “Closer” is the duo’s third top 10 single on the Billboard Chart in 2016 alone. The single, about getting cozy with a crush, is also this year’s longest-running No.1 single on the Hot 100 chart. “Closer” was a smash hit, reminding us all of our last summer romance and the indescribable feeling you get when the two of you heat things up and get a little closer.

Strain Pairing: Sunset Haze

A combination of Tangerine Haze and Rocky Mountain Blueberry, Sunset Haze is a delightful hybrid strain with bright colorful buds that remind you of the summer sunset. It produces an uplifting buzz that pairs nicely with this up-tempo summer dance track.

“Let Me Love You” by DJ Snake feat. Justin Bieber

DJ Snake is a French producer who has worked with many artists, from Lady GaGa and Diplo to Mr. Hudson and Young Thug. “Let Me Love You” is DJ Snake’s third single from his album Encore, and it features vocals from none other than Justin Bieber as he sings about not giving up on love.

Strain Pairing: Black Mamba

Black Mamba is a strong indica strain, with people reporting feeling relaxed and in a good mood after consuming it. It’s a great option to try while listening to “Let Me Love You” because it makes you feel extremely relaxed and mellow.

“Purple Lamborghini” by Skrillex feat. Rick Ross

Featured on the soundtrack from 2016’s blockbuster hit, Suicide Squad, “Purple Lamborghini” is the electrifying single that gives you everything you could expect from a Skrillex production and more. Plus, Rick Ross’ feature on the track makes it even more deserving to be among the list of the best songs of 2016 because how often do you hear Miami’s biggest boss on an electronic/dance record?

Strain Pairing: Lamborghini

Like the song “Purple Lamborghini,” Lamborghini is an upbeat, high energy strain that will take you on the ride of your life.

“Never Be Like You” by Flume feat. Kai

“Never Be Like You” is Flume’s first chart-topping single. The Australian artist is a triple-threat, being that he’s a musician, producer, and DJ. “Never Be Like You” features vocals from Canadian singer Kai. She sings about an ex-lover and how “he’ll never be like you,” referring to her current boyfriend. All she wants is her one true love.

Strain Pairing: The One

The One and “Never Be Like You” pair well together because this strain is a balanced hybrid with euphoric and happy effects. It works nicely with the mild tempo of Flume’s hit song.

“I Took a Pill in Ibiza (SEEB Remix)” by Mike Posner

Mike takes listeners on a wild trip as he sings on a bass-filled track about being completely over the Hollywood scene, coming to the realization that everything that comes with the glitz and glamour of a chart-topping single isn’t exactly what it’s all cracked up to be. He sings, “I’m living out in LA / I drive a sports car just to prove / I’m a real big baller because I made a million dollars and I spend it on girls and shoes.”

Strain Pairing: Hollywood OG

Hollywood OG would be the perfect strain to pair with Mike Posner’s latest hit single because it can help alleviate some of the issues he sings about in the song. Originating from none other than southern California, Hollywood OG is an indica-dominant hybrid strain used to treat severe pain and stress.

Top Rock Songs of 2016

“The Sound of Silence” by Disturbed

Disturbed is a heavy metal band that’s been around since the early ’90s. Their song “The Sound of Silence” honors the classic song of the same name made popular by Simon and Garfunkel in 1964. Lead singer of Disturbed David Draiman’s amazing vocals make this rendition the band’s very owm while still paying homage to the iconic original version.

Strain Pairing: Dark Star

A strain like Dark Star, a true indica with strong cerebral and body effects, pairs nicely with Disturbed’s somber rendition of a classic song.

“Heathens” by Twenty-one Pilots

Twenty-one pilots were behind yet another hit song in 2016, “Heathens.” It’s another chart-topping single off the successful soundtrack to the film Suicide Squad. The song lives up to its title as it’s basically about how Twenty-one Pilots and their friends are a bunch of hellraisers, just like members of the Suicide Squad.

Strain Pairing: Hell Raiser OG

A cross between Fire OG and Face Off OG, Hell Raiser OG is an indica-dominant hybrid known for its heavy effects. This strain could definitely tame heathens with its euphoric effects and wild head high.

“Get High” by Rob Zombie

The song “Get High” gives you everything you would expect from Rob Zombie, the founding member of the heavy metal band White Zombie as well as a horror filmmaker. “Get High” is actually the shortened version of its full title, “In the Age of the Consecrated Vampire We All Get High,” from his 2016 album The Electric Warlock Acid Witch Satanic Orgy Celebration Dispenser. The song has a classic metal feel, with an added twist that only Zombie himself could be responsible for.

Strain Pairing: Zombie OG

A powerful cross between OG Kush and Blackberry, Zombie OG may be one of the few strains able to stand a chance against Rob Zombie and his song “Get High.” Zombie OG is a total knockout, and its strong sedative effects make it a great strain to smoke at night when you can’t sleep or find yourself listening to some good ‘ol Rob Zombie.

“My Name is Human” by Highly Suspect

Highly Suspect earned their first-ever Billboard No. 1 hit with their song “My Name is Human,” off their sophomore album The Boy Who Died Wolf. The group is no stranger to success. Last year, their single “Lydia” took the rock industry by storm, peaking at the No.4 spot on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Chart. “My Name is Human” is nominated for a Grammy Award for 2016’s Best Rock Song.

Strain Pairing: Alien OG

Alien OG is a hybrid strain known for producing an intense high, sometimes leading to a psychedelic cerebral buzz that feels amazing when listening to “My Name is Human.” The combination may leave you pondering your very own existence.

“Burn the Witch” by Radiohead

Beloved English rock band Radiohead has been creating timeless music since the ’80s. This year the group released their single “Burn the Witch.” Fans were shocked to hear the single off the group’s ninth studio album, A Moon Shaped Pool, as it brought the group out of hiatus. And what a triumphant return Radiohead made as they were nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rock Song.

Strain Pairing: B-Witched

B-Witched is a strain known for helping consumers ease stress and anxiety, but what makes it a good choice to smoke when listening to “Burn the Witch” is that it will keep you focused and calm as you listen along.

These are our picks for best songs of 2016, but what were some of your favorite tracks of the year? Let us know in the comments section!

Nicolle Callier

Nicolle is an editorial intern at Leafly.

The post Pair the Best Country, EDM, and Rock Songs of 2016 with These Strains appeared first on Leafly.

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Radical Rant: The Dumbest Stoner Moves of 2016, Part 2

Continuing my look back at the 10 most idiotic, thoughtless and ignorant acts committed by cannabis consumers in 2016—catch up with the first part from Tuesday HERE.

Marijuana Smugglers Call 911 On Themselves
These two guys decide they are going to load up 20 pounds of marijuana from Las Vegas, Nevada, to Bozeman, Montana. They were puffing along in the car on their road trip, which took them through Eastern Idaho, a notoriously strict prohibition state.

When they cross into Idaho, they begin feeling paranoid. Convinced that they were being followed by undercover, unmarked police cars, they pulled into the small college town of Rexburg and called 911 on themselves. Really.

Woman Smokes Pot in Cops’ Parking Spot
One day in Chicago, a 21-year-old woman decided to help out her friend who had been busted for a DUI. She drove to the police station to pick up her friend and then take her to get her car out of impound. But while waiting for her friend, she parked her car in a spot marked “police unit parking only.” She rolled down her window and started smoking some pot.

Soon enough, a cop investigating why a civilian car was parked in police parking discovered the woman and the strong odor of marijuana. The police asked if there was marijuana in the vehicle and the woman helpfully answered that there was, as well as two items of paraphernalia. Cops called it “probably the easiest cannabis arrest” they’ve ever made.

Man on Probation Throws Marijuana Football Into Prison
When people try to smuggle contraband into a prison by hiding it inside a non-contraband object, the object is called a “football.” But for this story, the “football” was an actual football.

In Michigan, a 22-year-old man on probation for a 2012 home invasion, who also had a prior charge for cocaine delivery that year, was busted when he tried to throw a football filled with marijuana, heroin and three cell phones over two fences at the G. Robert Cotton Correctional Facility.

The man won’t be getting any tryouts with the Detroit Lions anytime soon, as the throw was well short of clearing the second fence, landing in-between the fences where no inmates have access. The man was sentenced to 17-to-60 months for his terrible quarterbacking skills.

Vacant House Hookup Leads to Pipe in Plain View
A young female real estate agent in Texas decided one dark early morning to do the wild thing with her boyfriend in a vacant home she had just sold. Neighbors in the Houston suburb thought it odd that a couple with flashlights were entering an empty home at five in the morning, and they called the police.

When police arrived, the real estate agent lied and told them she and the boyfriend were a married couple who had just purchased the home. Cops then took them back to their car to retrieve their identification. That’s when they saw a glass pot pipe sitting on the dashboard and smelled the overpowering smell of herb. A subsequent search found more paraphernalia and a baggie of weed, which the real estate agent admitted was hers.

Man Tries Blaming Wendy’s Drive-Thru For His Weed
In April, a young man was pulled over by police in Milton, West Virginia, after leaving a Wendy’s hamburger fast-food drive-thru. An officer claimed he could smell marijuana and brought in a drug-sniffing dog for a subsequent search. The dog discovered a small bag of weed stashed inside a hot-and-juicy Baconator cheeseburger.

According to the police Facebook post that went viral, the man said, “It was in the cheeseburger when I got it. They must have put it on there at the store.” The police, tongue planted firmly in cheek, explained to the public that, “When we checked Wendys.com, we did in fact find out that marijuana is not an ingredient on the Baconator.”

What? Wendy’s doesn’t make a medicated Baconator? Well, they’d be a lot cooler if they did!

Previously in Radical Rant: The Dumbest Stoner Moves of 2016, Part 1

Click here for all of Russ Belville’s columns.

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Massachusetts Governor Signs Bill Delaying Pot Shop Openings

BY MARK PRATT
ASSOCIATED PRESS

BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker signed a bill Friday aimed at delaying by up to six months the opening of marijuana shops in the state until mid-2018.

An aide to the Republican governor said Baker shares the desire of state lawmakers to thoroughly prepare for the launch of a new industry distributing a controlled substance.

Baker is “committed to adhering to the will of the voters by implementing the new law as effectively and responsibly as possible,” the governor’s communications director Lizzy Guyton said.

Baker’s decision to sign the bill came as a small group of marijuana activists protested outside the Statehouse.

Members of the Massachusetts Cannabis Reform Coalition and the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws faulted lawmakers for passing the bill during end-of-year sessions and said the delay “flies in the face of the will of the voters” who approved the ballot question legalizing pot.

The House and Senate passed the bill Wednesday without a public hearing and without debate during informal sessions in both chambers. Only a handful of lawmakers were present.

The ballot initiative that allows adults 21 and over to possess and use limited amounts of recreational marijuana and grow as many as a dozen pot plants in their homes was approved by 53.7 percent of voters on Nov. 8 and took effect Dec. 15.

The action by lawmakers doesn’t change that. But what it’s almost certain to do is push back the timetable for opening retail marijuana stores from the beginning of 2018 until the middle of that year.

Senate President Stan Rosenberg and House Speaker Robert DeLeo, both Democrats, said pushing back the deadlines will give lawmakers more time improve the law by considering issues that were not addressed in the ballot question.

RachelRamone Donlan was among the dozen or so protesters outside the Statehouse. The 45-year-old Braintree resident said she and other cannabis activists are “100 percent outraged” that a small group of lawmakers undid the will of the people. She said she’s even angrier that Baker signed the bill.

Donlan also warned of what she called a legal gray area that will confuse people.

“We are in fear that people are going to get arrested in the next six months because there will be a time frame when it’s legal to possess it but you cannot buy it,” Donlan said. “We’re losing out on tax revenue and we’re fueling the black market.”

Among the key deadlines that would be put off six months include the current March 1 deadline for state Treasurer Deb Goldberg to appoint a cannabis control commission to oversee the recreational marijuana market; a Sept. 15 deadline for the commission to approve detailed regulations; an Oct. 1 deadline for accepting applications for retail marijuana outlets, and the Jan. 1, 2018, deadline for licensing the first pot shops.

For now, it remains illegal in Massachusetts to sell pot except to registered medical marijuana patients.

You can keep up with all of HIGH TIMES’ marijuana news right here.

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Pair the Best Hip-Hop, R&B, and Pop Songs of 2016 with These Strains

From politics to pop culture and everything else in between, it’s been one rollercoaster of a year. As we look back, it’s safe to say music may be the one thing that kept us functioning in 2016.

Here’s a recap of the best songs from 2016, along with our suggested cannabis strain pairing. We’re starting Part 1 off with the best hip-hop, R&B, and pop songs of the year, and we’ll follow up with a list of the top country, EDM, and rock songs. Create your own playlist and strain bar on New Year’s Eve to say a proper adieu to a challenging year. Here’s to 2017!

Top Hip-Hop Songs of 2016

“Black Beatles” by Rae Sremmurd feat. Gucci Mane

After getting released from prison last year, East Atlanta’s Gucci Mane jumps on superstar rap duo Rae Sremmurd’s “Black Beatles.” It’s one of the most popular songs of the year, becoming the go-to track for 2016’s hottest social media challenge, the Mannequin Challenge. The Sremmurd boys even got the A-OK from legendary Beatle Paul McCartney himself. What could possibly top that?

Strain Pairing: Gucci OG

Gucci OG is a potent hybrid that will give you the spark in energy needed to keep up with Rae Sremmurd and Gucci Mane as they perform sold-out shows around the globe and interact with fans.

“No Problem” by Chance the Rapper

2016 was the breakout year for Chance the Rapper. The Chi-Town MC streamed his highly anticipated mixtape, Coloring Book, exclusively through Apple Music. “No Problem” is Chance’s second single off of Coloring Book and he’s joined by hip-hop heavyweights Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz. In this song, Chance raps about being an independent artist (he still hasn’t signed with a label) and not allowing the music industry (or anyone, for that matter) change who he is. Chance is nominated for an outstanding seven Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Song for “No Problem.”

Strain Pairing: Grape Ape

Grape Ape is a great strain to help ease your problems and mind. It pairs well with “No Problem” because of Chance’s carefree attitude and lyrics about no one being able to stop him.

“Broccoli” by D.R.A.M. feat Lil Yachty

D.R.A.M. invites up and coming rapper Lil Yachty to join him on his breakout single, “Broccoli,” off his self-titled debut album. Besides the fact that “Broccoli” is nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Performance (a huge accomplishment in itself), what we here at Leafly find special is that one of the hottest songs of the year references cannabis, likening it to the vegetable broccoli. D.R.A.M. is living in a total green dream as he raps about being in the middle of the party rolling up his “broccoli,” while fantasizing about all the wonderful things he looks forward to now that he’s finally made it.

Strain Pairing: Green Dream

Green Dream, a sativa-dominant hybrid cross of Green Crack and Blue Dream, will leave you with a long-lasting happy high. Just as happy as D.R.A.M. is when he gets to spark a joint of his favorite strain of “broccoli.”

“All the Way Up (Remix)” by Fat Joe feat. Remy Ma, Jay-Z and French Montana

Back in 2004, Terror Squad was in the club leaning all the way back. Fast-forward 12 years later, Fat Joe and Remy Ma prove they can still get the party going with the release of this year’s club banger “All the Way Up (Remix).” It was such a smash-hit, that even the G.O.A.T. Jay-Z decided to join his fellow New Yorkers on the track to represent their city. “All the Way Up (Remix)” is about celebrating your success and accomplishments with the ones you love and started your journey with.

Strain Pairing: NYC Diesel

NYC Diesel is a hybrid strain recommended for social anxiety that pairs great with this song. The effects of this strain are known to make consumers feel like they’re the life of the party, becoming extremely talkative and happy.

“OOOUUU” by Young M.A.

Another rapper to emerge on the music scene this year was Young M.A., hailing from none other than Brooklyn, New York. Young M.A. delivers a sick flow, but what got most listeners’ attention was her “OOOUUUs” throughout the track and unforgettable lines like, “You call her Stephanie, I call her Headphanie.” Young M.A. had a huge impact on hip-hop and pop culture in 2016.

Strain Pairing: Bubba Kush

Bubba Kush is a heavy indica, which pairs well with the hard-hitting bars Young M.A. delivers on “OOOUUU.”

Top R&B Songs of the Year

“Lake by the Ocean” by Maxwell

R&B legend Maxwell returns after a seven-year hiatus with “Lake by the Ocean.” It’s the lead single off of his album BlackSUMMERS’night, the second installation of a trilogy of albums. “Lake by the Ocean” leaves listeners in awe, shocked that singer Maxwell still has it after all these years. It’s just one of the many reasons he’s nominated for a Grammy Award for his vocal performance on “Lake by the Ocean.”

Strain Pairing: Blackwater

With a sweet grape aroma and deep purple buds, Blackwater is known to make you feel happy while easing the body and mind. It’s a great strain to put you in the perfect mood for a night in listening to Maxwell.

“Exchange” by Bryson Tiller

Bryson Tiller put his own twist on R&B with the release of his debut studio album Trapsoul in 2016. Young Tiller’s unique sound, simply characterized as a hybrid of southern trap music and R&B, has generated him a huge fan base in just a short amount of time. “Exchange” is about an ex-lover Bryson would give his all to, if only she would forgive Bryson and give him all her love. (It’s pretty complicated.) The track was certified platinum and has been nominated for a Grammy Award for this year’s Best R&B Song.

Strain Pairing: Platinum Girl Scout Cookies

Platinum Girl Scout Cookies is a really uplifting hybrid strain, a perfect option if you start thinking about your ex or relationship issues while listening to this song.

“Kiss it Better” by Rihanna

Next to her summer smash “Needed Me,” Rihanna’s “Kiss It Better” was one of 2016’s most intimate and sexy ballads. She sings about reconciling with a lover after things have hit the fan. Being the seductive superstar she is, Rihanna passionately sings, “What are you willing to do?” She then responds that the only way for the two to make things better is if they “kiss it better.”

Strain pairing: Kiss

Kiss may be a somewhat hard strain to find, but its powerful body effects and mood elevation pair well with Rihanna’s 2016 make-up song of the year.

“Come and See Me” by PartyNextDoor feat. Drake

Drake’s protégé PartyNextDoor released his first single “Come and See Me” from his second studio album, PartyNextDoor3. The track is about an ex-girlfriend who swears their relationship is one-sided because he never travels the distance or has the time for her with his busy schedule.

Strain Pairing: Champagne Kush

Champagne Kush and “Come and See Me” pair well because this indica-dominant hybrid is calming and great for zoning out while listening to music or having a chill night in with friends or your significant other.

“Cranes in the Sky” by Solange

In 2016 Solange released A Seat at the Table. The album quickly shot to the top of the charts, becoming the soundtrack to so many peoples’ lives this year. “Cranes in the Sky” is the debut single off of her latest album. The song touches on all of Solange’s failed attempts to alleviate the pain in her life by sleeping, drinking, and sexing it away, among other things. A Seat at the Table is Solange’s most honest and awe-inspiring work to-date. She was even nominated for a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance for this single.

Strain Pairing: Lavender

The cannabis strain Lavender is known for its flowery and sweet flavor properties upon exhale, but don’t let this strain fool you, as its effects can be just as heavy as the message in “Cranes in the Sky.”

Top Pop Songs of the Year

“Love Yourself” by Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber’s “Love Yourself” was Billboard’s Pop Song of the Year. With an acoustic feel and catchy lyrics like, “My mama don’t like you, and she likes everyone,” what’s there not to love about a song that talks about telling an ex to take a good look in the mirror? “Love Yourself” is an instant pop classic.

Strain Pairing: Love Potion #1

Love Potion #1 is a 70% sativa strain known to make consumers feel happy and all lovey-dovey. Give this strain a try while listening to JB’s “Love Yourself” and see if it doesn’t make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

“24k Magic” by Bruno Mars

“24K Magic” is a pop song by none other than the Dr. Funk himself, Bruno Mars. Immediately upon hearing the radio smash, you’ll want to get up out of your seat and groove to the rhythm of the beat. As we all know, Bruno Mars knows how to keep the party going and he definitely brought the funk in this song.

Strain Pairing: Dr.Funk

Pass around a joint of Dr. Funk and you’re sure to keep the party and laughs going all night long. This indica strain has a sweet berry taste upon exhale and leaves consumers feeling “magical.”

“Starboy” by The Weeknd

The Weeknd has gone from underground Canadian crooner to international pop superstar right before our eyes. He’s a self-proclaimed “starboy” and isn’t shying away from all his recent success and whatever awaits him in the future. The Weeknd knows he’s out of this world and ahead of his time, and he’s embracing every bit of it in “Starboy.”

Strain Pairing: Astroboy

Astroboy is a hybrid strain that, upon exhale, produces a mix of sweet and sour fruit flavors. This strain pairs well with “Starboy” because of The Weeknd’s positive and negative perceptions of fame now that he’s a pop sensation.

“Formation” by Beyonce

Our compilation of the best songs of 2016 just wouldn’t be complete without mention of Beyoncé. To be honest, Beyoncé kind of reigned the entire music industry in 2016 with the release of her most deeply personal and creative body of work yet, Lemonade. “Formation” was the controversial single that started it all.

Strain Pairing: Pink Lemonade

Pink Lemonade pairs with “Formation” because of the strain’s amazing lemon scent and flavor. But besides that, the strain Pink Lemonade also has calming properties to help ease the emotional rollercoaster of a ride Bey takes us on with Lemonade.

“Side to Side” by Ariana Grande feat. Nicki Minaj

Ariana Grande is finally coming into her own, transitioning from Disney princess to superstar diva. On her album Dangerous Woman, she unapologetically sings about love, relationships, and overall just having a good time. Ariana is letting everyone know that she’s not a little girl anymore. And who better than Nicki Minaj to join her on her breakout hit single?

Strain Pairing: Supergirl

Only a strain like Supergirl would be able to tame the fieriness that is Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj when they team up on a track. Although this indica strain has a relatively low THC content, don’t let that fool you. Supergirl is a fast, hard-hitting strain perfect to pair with this song and dynamic duo.

Check out Part 2 of Leafly’s Best Songs of 2016 to see which country, EDM, and rock songs made our list along with our suggested strain pairing for each!

Nicolle Callier

Nicolle is an editorial intern at Leafly.

The post Pair the Best Hip-Hop, R&B, and Pop Songs of 2016 with These Strains appeared first on Leafly.

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Cannabis Industry Gets Image Boost from Celebrities in 2016

As we close in on the end of the year, it’s good to look at some of the bright spots from 2016, especially in the cannabis industry. Let’s face it, the growing legalization movement was one of the few bright spots of the year because if we’re keeping it totally 100, 2016 totally sucked ass.

There were many wins worth celebrating this past year, but one of the bigger milestones that should be recognized is the number of famous people jumping headfirst into the cannabis industry, with several celebrities debuting brands this year in an effort to bring cannabis products into the mainstream.

Country music legend Willie Nelson, one of the industry’s most decorated cannabis advocates, now has an adult-use cannabis company to serve those in legal states throughout the country. Willie’s Reserve is a higher-end cannabis company that offers a number of different products ranging from flowers, to pre-rolls, vape cartridges, and disposable vaporizers. Nelson has always been one to light up a joint and pass it to his left, as Willie’s Reserve’s tag line is, “My stash is your stash.”

A close friend of Nelson, Snoop Dogg has also jumped into the cannabis industry. This year, he debuted Leafs by Snoop, a cannabis product company selling its line in Colorado and Canada only. Snoop’s line includes flower products, wax and oil products, and an edibles line called Dogg Treats.

Tommy Chong also has a cannabis brand titled Chong’s Choice. The Cheech & Chong legend has been a loud voice for the advocacy movement, working tirelessly to destigmatize the plant, so it’s only fitting that you can now get some of his hand-selected products. Chong’s Choice is available now in Arizona, California, Colorado, Montana, Oregon, and Washington.

Musicians and comedians alike weren’t the only celebrities to dabble with the cannabis industry in 2016, as the Cannathlete movement started to get traction as well. A number of former professional athletes came out in support of cannabis legalization during the year, with former NFL All-Pro running back Ricky Williams being one of the most noteworthy to do so.

Williams, along with a few business partners, opened the world’s first cannabis-friendly gym in San Francisco called Power Plant Fitness. The gym’s goal is to incorporate cannabis with someone’s workout, whether that means consuming prior to exercising or post-workout to aid in recovery.

We would be remiss to not mention the legend himself, Bob Marley, as the Marley family has brought Marley Natural to the market. (Note: Marley Natural is owned by Privateer Holdings, the parent company of Leafly.) The cannabis brand incorporates a lot of Bob’s favorite strains and cannabis-related items combined with today’s technology and growing techniques. Marley Natural is currently available for purchase in Oregon, with future stores opening in Washington State and California in 2017.

What were some of your favorite brands that debuted this year, and which celebrities are you hoping will throw their hat into the ring in 2017?

Gage Peake

Gage Peake is a staff writer who specializes in breaking news coverage, politics, and sports.

The post Cannabis Industry Gets Image Boost from Celebrities in 2016 appeared first on Leafly.

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