I have never smoked ‘ganja’ in my life, though I’m a Rastafarian – Gramps Morgan

Jamaican-American singer-songwriter Gramps Morgan has revealed he has never smoked cannabis, known as ganja, despite being a Rastafarian. This stance challenges the common belief that cannabis use is a fundamental aspect of the Rastafari faith or reggae music. Born in Jamaica, Morgan is a member of the Grammy Award-winning reggae group Morgan Heritage.

He explained his decision not to partake in cannabis use in an interview on 3Music, emphasizing the importance of his commitment to music and the desire to safeguard his voice.

Morgan clarified that being a Rastafarian does not mandate the consumption of ganja. He underscored that Rastafari represents a spiritual and religious movement, with varying interpretations and practices among its followers. Morgan also dismissed the notion that musicians need to smoke ganja to excel in reggae or dancehall music, insisting that artists should not feel compelled to conform to stereotypes linked with these genres.

He argued that reggae and dancehall should not be primarily defined by references to ganja, violence, vulgarity, or other negative themes.

Gramps Morgan called for a greater focus on positive messages and music that could positively influence young people. For him, music and spirituality are distinct from the decision to consume ganja. His connection to music is deeply rooted in his voice, beliefs, and the messages he aims to convey to his audience.