All right, before you grab your playlist and start cueing up Bob Marley, let’s get one thing straight: This theme is not for everyone. You’ve really got to know your audience, your club’s vibe, and maybe even double-check with management before rolling (pun intended) with it.
That said…if your crowd has a sense of humor and you feel comfortable with it, why not have a little fun with some tunes that wink at 4/20?
I wouldn’t recommend an entire ride dedicated to the theme (unless you’re teaching in Jamaica or some parts of Colorado, where people might just nod and chuckle), but slipping in a song or two? Totally doable! At my old club, this would’ve been a hit. At my current one? Let’s just say I’d probably get a look from some of my riders, or maybe even management.
So, if you’re game, here are a few tracks to sprinkle in—just enough to make your riders laugh without, you know, making anyone call HR. And if you want more, scroll down for our massive playlist with over 110 songs!
🚴 Song Suggestions 🚴
🎶 Got to Get You Into My Life, The Beatles, 2:29, 136 bpm
Surprise! This isn’t about a person—it’s about McCartney’s first experience with pot. Use it as a recovery song and watch the realization dawn on your class.
🎶 You Don’t Know How It Feels, Tom Petty, 4:49, 144 bpm
“Let’s get to the point, let’s roll another joint…” Oh, Tom, you smooth troublemaker. Perfect for a steady climb.
🎶 It’s All Going to Pot, Willie Nelson & Merle Haggard, 2:56, 82 bpm
Did you really think a 4/20 playlist wouldn’t have Willie Nelson? Please. This lighthearted number is great for a warm-up or recovery—bonus points if you give your class a knowing grin when it comes on.
🎶 Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?, Arctic Monkeys, 2:41, 92 bpm
Short, snarky, and fun. Use this as a moderate bridge between climbs or an easy recovery.
🎶 Roll Up, Fitz and the Tantrums, 3:38, 93 bpm
Not actually about weed, but the name alone earns it a spot here! Plus, it’s a killer track for fast-paced intervals.
🎶 Rainy Day Women #12 & 35, Bob Dylan, 4:34, 95 bpm
A.K.A. the “Everybody must get stoned” song. Play it as a cool-down and wait to see who is the first to belt out those lyrics. Or, keep it rolling as a post-ride track.
🔥 Mary Jane’s Last Dance, Tom Petty, 4:31, 85 bpm
Is it about a girl? Is it about something else? Tom Petty never really said, but we all have our suspicions. This classic track rolls along at 85 rpm, making it perfect for an endurance effort, sub-threshold flat, or even a warm-up. Either way, it’s a smooth ride! 🚴♂️🔥
🔥 Legalize It, Peter Tosh, 4:39, 145 bpm
Let’s be honest—if you’re going to dabble in a 4/20 playlist, reggae is basically de rigueur. And no one was more vocal about the subject than Peter Tosh. This laid-back groove works well as a warm-up, climb, or post-ride track, giving your class a moment to channel some island vibes. Just don’t be surprised if a few riders start swaying like they’re at a beach bar in Negril. 🌴😆 FYI, it’s already “legalized” in 24 states (39 states if you count medical use).
So, what do you think? Would you sneak one of these tracks into your class, or is this a hard pass? Either way, I bet at least one of these songs has likely made it onto your playlist before—maybe even unintentionally. 😆
And before anyone asks—no, I don’t partake. (Okay, maaaybe I dabbled a bit back in my youth, but that was decades ago!) These days, I just get high on endorphins. But hey, I live in Colorado, where weed has been legal for ages, so honestly…no one around here really bats an eye anymore! 😆
👉 Now, check out our full bucket playlist with 110+ songs below! (For ICA members.)