About the song
Few artists embody the spirit of American outlaw country quite like **Willie Nelson**, and few songs capture his singular voice—both literal and philosophical—as distinctly as **”Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die.”** Released in 2012 as part of his album *Heroes*, this song is not only a wry anthem of defiance and humor but also a warm, twinkling reflection on mortality, legacy, and the simple joys that mark a life well-lived.
**Willie Nelson** has long been known for his refusal to conform—whether to the polished Nashville sound of the 1970s or to society’s more conventional views on aging, politics, or recreational marijuana. At the time of this song’s release, **Willie Nelson** was approaching 80 years old, and yet his voice still carried that familiar blend of weathered tenderness and sly mischief. In **”Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die,”** he leans fully into his identity, addressing death not with solemnity but with a wink and a smile.
Musically, the track feels like a lazy afternoon on a Texas porch. It’s got that easy shuffle rhythm, brushed drums, and a backing band that moves with laid-back confidence. But what elevates it is the camaraderie: **Willie** is joined by **Snoop Dogg**, **Kris Kristofferson**, and **Jamey Johnson**, forming a cross-generational and cross-genre celebration of freedom and friendship. Each artist brings their own texture to the song, but it’s **Willie’s** presence that anchors the message—a reminder that life is fleeting, and we might as well enjoy the ride.
Lyrically, the song is both playful and poignant. Beneath the humor lies a gentle acceptance of life’s impermanence. Rather than fearing the end, **Willie Nelson** embraces it with a shrug and a laugh, encouraging his listeners to do the same. In a culture that often shies away from frank discussions of death, **”Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die”** stands out as a refreshingly honest—and oddly comforting—piece of musical philosophy.
For fans of **Willie Nelson**, this song is quintessential: bold, wise, irreverent, and full of heart. It’s not just a novelty tune—it’s a testament to a man who’s always danced to the beat of his own guitar, and who, even in his later years, continues to live—and sing—on his own terms.
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
