The Cool Kids Reflect on Cannabis, Music, and Their Latest Album 'Hi Top Fade'

In the late 1990s, Chuck Inglish of The Cool Kids had his first encounter with cannabis at a middle school friend's birthday party. Surrounded by classmates and the sounds of No Limit Records, he was introduced to a makeshift smoking device fashioned from a Miller Lite can. This moment marked the beginning of what would become a decades-long relationship with cannabis, influencing both his personal life and his music career. The experience was transformative, leading Chuck to promise himself that he would continue to explore the effects of marijuana

Sir Michael Rocks, Chuck's long-time collaborator and friend, had his first cannabis experience a few years later during his sophomore year of high school. The setting was a joyride in a friend's old Oldsmobile, accompanied by Lil Wayne mixtapes and a Philly blunt. The night was filled with laughter and munchies, culminating in a memorable trip to Burger King. This initial encounter with cannabis left a lasting impression, prompting Mikey to seek out more the following day

As The Cool Kids, Chuck and Mikey have woven their personal experiences with cannabis into their music, becoming hip-hop trailblazers known for their unique sound. Their latest album, 'Hi Top Fade,' released under A-Trak's Fool's Gold Records, continues this tradition. The album follows their 2022 project, a three-part series titled 'Before Shit Got Weird.' Despite the challenges both artists faced in recent years, including personal losses and financial struggles, their bond and shared love for music and cannabis helped them persevere

Cannabis has played a nuanced role in The Cool Kids' creative process. While Chuck has attempted to quit in the past, he found that his creativity flourished when he returned to smoking. He experimented with quitting during a move to Miami, only to discover that his best work came when he embraced cannabis again. This realization reinforced the idea that marijuana was an integral part of his artistic expression, enhancing his ability to push creative boundaries

Looking ahead, Chuck and Mikey remain open to incorporating more cannabis references in their music. They believe that the right environment, such as a vacation setting, could inspire them to explore the effects of cannabis in their lyrics further. Although 'Hi Top Fade' doesn't heavily feature weed references, the duo acknowledges the influence of cannabis on their sound and the potential for future exploration in their music

The Cool Kids' journey with cannabis reflects broader societal shifts in attitudes towards marijuana. Chuck notes that smoking in public spaces, like a Detroit Tigers game, is no longer as taboo as it once was. Their experiences highlight the evolving cultural acceptance of cannabis and its integration into everyday life. As they continue to navigate their careers, Chuck and Mikey's relationship with cannabis remains a testament to its impact on their lives and art