The Tragically Hip believes it’s high time they got into the medical marijuana business.
The Canadian rockers announced Tuesday they are partnering with Newstrike, a soon-to-be-licensed producer of medical marijuana.
“After much discussion and assessment on our part, we’ve decided that this company – and the many creative people in it – are a perfect fit for The Hip,” reads a statement from the band.
“We are excited about our involvement with Newstrike and are looking forward to the prospect of contributing creatively to their efforts.”
Newstrike is a subsidiary of Hemisphere Pharmaceuticals based in Brantford, Ont. and its advisory board includes The Hip’s manager Bernie Breen and agent Jeff Craib.
The company described The Hip’s members as “significant investors in Newstrike and active stakeholders in the evolution of the company.” It said the musicians will be involved in "brand development."
Medicinal marijuana is legal in Canada and the government plans to legalize recreational use of the drug next year.
“With good reason,” said The Hip. “The harm wrought by the prohibition of marijuana has been thoroughly researched and documented.
“This is a common-sense-policy and, in our opinion, is a change for the best.”
On social media, fans are already coming up with possible names for Hip weed, including “Budcaygeon,” “Tragically Hemp” and “Chronically Hip.”