: The song earned Afroman a nomination for Best Rap Solo Performance in 2002. Legacy and Modern Context
In later years, the song’s legacy evolved alongside shifting marijuana laws.
In 2002, Afroman released "Because I Got High" as a single, and it reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song's music video, featuring Afroman rapping and smoking marijuana, became a viral sensation. The song was certified platinum, and Afroman's debut album, "Because I Got High", sold millions of copies.
Afroman’s early sound combined Southern hip‑hop beats with comedic storytelling. He drew inspiration from acts like 2 Live Crew, Ice‑Cube, and the G‑Funk era of Dr. Dre, while also embracing the “party rap” tradition of the late ’90s.
The song reached #13 on the Billboard Hot 100, topped charts in the UK and New Zealand, and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Solo Performance in 2002.