While celebrating 50 years of Hip hop music we pay homage to its evolving culture and how its reach has extended well beyond just the music itself. From fashion to language, the hip hop movement has left an indelible mark on popular culture. One element that has played a significant role in shaping the image and aesthetics of hip hop is the prominence of cigars. Seen as a symbol of wealth, power, and success, cigars have become synonymous with hip hop, weaving their way into the lyrics, music videos, and lifestyles of many artists and fans. Cigars have become an integral part of the genre and culture.
In hip hop culture, cigars have come to represent success and opulence. Artists often use them as a visual statement, both in their music videos and public appearances, to showcase their achievements and financial status. The act of lighting a cigar and puffing out smoke has become a metaphor for "blowing up" or achieving fame and fortune. This symbolism is reinforced by the association of cigars with luxury, as they are often depicted as accessories of the wealthy and influential.
Hip hop artists have always used their music to express their unique identities and experiences. Cigars have become an additional means of self-expression within the genre. By incorporating cigars into their music videos or referencing them in their lyrics, artists can create a distinct image and aesthetic that reflects their personal style. From the iconic image of Notorious B.I.G. puffing on a cigar to Jay-Z's frequent cigar references, these artists have utilized cigars to enhance their brand and leave a lasting visual impression on their audience.
Notorious B.I.G. - "Big Poppa":
In his iconic track "Big Poppa," the music video features Biggie prominently holding and smoking a cigar, emphasizing his larger-than-life persona and unapologetic swag.
Jay-Z - "Roc Boys (And the Winner Is)":
Jay-Z, known for his business ventures and success, often references cigars in his lyrics. The "Roc Boys (And the Winner Is)," video showcases Jay-Z and his associates enjoying cigars in a luxurious setting, reinforcing his status as a hip hop mogul.
Beyoncé - “Drunk in Love”:
In her hit song "Drunk in Love," Beyoncé, the iconic Hip Hop/R&B and pop artist, includes a memorable lyric that references cigars. In the song, she sings, "Cigars on ice, cigars on ice / Feeling like an animal with these cameras all in my grill." This line has become synonymous with the track, showcasing Beyoncé's confident and unapologetic attitude.The mention of "cigars on ice" in the lyrics adds a touch of luxury and extravagance to the song, further emphasizing Beyoncé's glamorous persona. It serves as a metaphorical expression of indulgence, aligning with the theme of celebration and the carefree nature of the song. Beyoncé's inclusion of cigars in her lyrics demonstrates how hip hop and R&B artists use the imagery and symbolism of cigars to enhance their storytelling and create captivating moments within their music.
Outkast - "So Fresh, So Clean":
Outkast, the innovative duo of Andre 3000 and Big Boi, incorporate cigar references in their hit song "So Fresh, So Clean." In the lyrics, Andre 3000 states, "Ain't nobody dope as me, I'm dressed so fresh, so clean / So fresh and so clean, clean / Don't you think I'm so sexy? I'm dressed so fresh, so clean." The accompanying music video depicts the duo in stylish attire, with Andre 3000 holding and lighting a cigar, exuding confidence and sophistication.
These are just a few examples showcasing how cigars have found their way into the lyrics and visual representations of hip hop music. The inclusion of cigar references by these influential artists further contributes to the narrative of success, self-expression, and luxury that has become synonymous with hip hop culture.
While cigars have played a significant role in hip hop, the reverse is also true. The hip hop community has had a notable impact on cigar culture. Artists, particularly those with entrepreneurial spirits, have ventured into the cigar industry, either by creating their own cigar brands or partnering with existing
manufacturers.
Jay-Z and Cohiba Comador: Jay-Z, a pioneer in both the music and business worlds, partnered with Cohiba, one of the most renowned cigar brands, to launch his own line of cigars called Cohiba Comador. These premium cigars were crafted in the Dominican Republic and featured a luxurious blend of tobacco. The collaboration between Jay-Z and Cohiba exemplifies the fusion of hip hop culture and the world of high-end cigars.
Cam'ron and The Cigar Lounge: Cam'ron, known for his distinctive style and entrepreneurial spirit, ventured into the cigar industry with his own brand called The Cigar Lounge. He introduced a line of flavored cigars, including flavors like Honey, Vanilla, and Chocolate. Cam'ron's foray into cigars reflects his desire to cater to a diverse audience and provide a unique experience within the cigar market.
Jim Jones and Vampire Life Cigars: Jim Jones launched his own cigar line named Vampire Life Cigars. Known for his fashionable image and business ventures, Jones incorporated his brand's logo, inspired by vampire imagery, onto the cigar packaging. The collaboration allowed him to extend his brand identity into the world of cigars, catering to his fan base and capturing their attention with a distinct aesthetic.
Another prominent example of a hip hop artist involvement in the cigar industry is the partnership between Escobar Inc. and Nas.
Nas, known for his poetic lyricism and entrepreneurial ventures, collaborated with Escobar Inc. to introduce his own line of cigars. The partnership between Nas and Escobar Inc. signifies the merging of two influential figures in hip hop culture. Nas's involvement in the creation of Escobar Reserve highlights his appreciation for the cigar craft and his desire to bring his unique touch to the industry.
The cigars are crafted with carefully selected tobacco leaves, representing Nas's commitment to delivering a premium smoking experience to aficionados and fans alike. With Nas's participation, Escobar cigars gained an even broader appeal, capturing the attention of hip hop enthusiasts and cigar connoisseurs who appreciate the fusion of artistry, culture, and luxury.
The collection exemplifies how hip hop artists can expand their influence and leave an indelible mark in industries beyond music, fostering innovation and creativity within the world of cigars.
These examples highlight how hip hop artists have expanded their influence beyond music and into the cigar industry, leveraging their entrepreneurial spirit to create their own cigar brands or collaborate with established manufacturers. By combining their personal brand with the allure of cigars, these artists have further cemented the connection between hip hop culture and the world of luxury cigars. This crossover has also helped introduce cigars to a new audience and break down some of the traditional barriers associated with the cigar world, making it more inclusive and accessible.
Hip hop has always been rooted in the celebration of cultural heritage and the acknowledgment of the artists who came before. Cigars hold historical significance in various cultures, including African, Cuban, and Latin American communities. By incorporating cigars into their music and visuals, hip hop artists pay homage to the rich traditions and legacies associated with cigars, creating a connection between the past and present.
It is important to acknowledge that the association of cigars with hip hop has not been without controversy and criticism. Some argue that the glorification of cigars promotes an unhealthy habit and glamorizes smoking. Others raise concerns about the negative influence on younger audiences who may view cigars as a symbol of success without understanding the potential health risks. These discussions highlight the need for responsible messaging and a broader conversation about the impact of hip hop culture on public health.
Cigars have become an influential element in hip hop music, representing success, self-expression, and cultural heritage. Their presence in music videos, lyrics, and public personas of hip hop artists has solidified their role as symbols of opulence and achievement within the genre. At the same time, the hip hop community has contributed to the evolution of cigar culture, blurring the lines between traditional associations and modern expressions. As the hip hop movement continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the influence of cigars on the genre's aesthetics and messaging develops in the future.
By Sheldon Jackson
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