Music, Style, and the Best Rolling Papers: How Zig-Zag Fits In

You probably didn’t grow up thinking a pack of rolling papers would say anything about your personality. But here we are. Music icons flaunt them. Designers reference them. Your favorite vintage tee might’ve even had our logo on it. In this blog, we’re taking a straight look at how music and style shaped what rolling papers represent today, and why Zig-Zag still fits into that picture. 

What’s the Connection Between Music and Rolling Papers?

Rolling papers have always had a low-key presence in music. From album art to lyrics, they’ve slipped into the culture, not as props, but as part of the look, the scene, the lifestyle.

We’ve seen our papers in studio shots, record covers, late-night jam sessions, and throwback music videos where every detail felt intentional. Not to be dramatic, but for some artists, carrying Zig-Zag was as common as wearing Chucks or writing in a beat-up notebook. 

Here’s what helped cement the connection:

• Lyric mentions: Zig-Zag showed up in tracks across hip-hop, reggae, and punk. Not as a brand shoutout, but as a lifestyle cue.

• Visuals: Think gritty album inserts from the ’90s or lo-fi concert zines where a worn pack of papers sat next to cassette tapes.

• Streetwear overlap: When brands started blending street fashion with music merch, we noticed our logo showing up on bootleg tees. We didn’t make them, but people wore them.

How Has Zig-Zag Been Part of Music Culture Over Time?

Zig-Zag has quietly shown up in music culture for over a century. We didn’t set out to become part of music history. But when you’ve been around for over 140 years, some things just stick. Artists picked us up, talked about us, wore our logo, no partnerships needed. They just liked what we stood for.

A few key moments that stand out:

• 1970s rock posters: You’d see a stack of vinyl, a lighter, and our papers sitting next to it like they belonged there.

• 1990s hip-hop visuals: Our packaging made subtle cameos in studio photos and VHS-recorded freestyle sessions.

• Tour life essentials: A lot of crew members and performers kept Zig-Zag in their kits. Didn’t need promo deals. It was just... already in the bag.

Why Zig-Zag clicked with artists:

• Simple, recognizable design

• Unfiltered connection to counterculture without gimmicks

• Built-in respect from peers and fans alike

Iconic Artists and Their Favorite Rolling Papers

Artists from hip-hop, rock, and reggae have name-dropped Zig-Zag or featured it in lyrics, visuals, or merch. You’ll find our name dropped in bars. Our logo flipped on T-shirts. Packs sitting in the background of music videos. 

Dr. Dre (Hip-Hop, 1992)

Dr. Dre paid homage to Zig-Zag on the cover of his 1992 album The Chronic. The album’s artwork famously parodies the design of a Zig-Zag rolling papers pack, replacing the brand’s bearded “Le Zouave” mascot with Dr. Dre’s own portrait. T

his gold-framed, white-background cover instantly evoked Zig-Zag’s classic packaging, effectively tying Dre’s West Coast G-funk legacy to the counterculture iconography of Zig-Zag. The visual tribute was organic (not a paid placement) and cemented Zig-Zag’s place in hip-hop lore.

Snoop Dogg (Hip-Hop, 1993)

Snoop Dogg has explicitly name-dropped Zig-Zag in his lyrics, underscoring its West Coast cred. On the track “Gz and Hustlas” from Doggystyle (1993), young Snoop proclaims: “Cuz Doggy Dogg is all about the zig-zag smoke. See, it’s a West Coast thing, where I’m from.” 

In this line, Snoop uses “zig-zag smoke” as shorthand for rolling joints, making clear that Zig-Zag papers are part of the laid-back California lifestyle. The casual mention serves as a badge of authenticity, a nod to the preferred rolling papers of G-funk-era smokers – and it roots Snoop’s identity in West Coast cannabis culture without needing any explicit product endorsement.

Eminem (Hip-Hop, 2000)

In the early 2000s, Eminem referenced Zig-Zag in a lyric illustrating his creative process and mindset. On “The Way I Am” (2000), he opens with the line: “I sit back with this pack of Zig-Zags and this bag of this weed, it gives me the shit needed to be the most meanest MC on this Earth…”

Here Eminem vividly sets a scene of himself with a pack of Zig-Zag papers as he self-medicates to unleash his raw lyrical aggression. The mention is matter-of-fact; Zig-Zags are simply part of his ritual. This casual but specific reference resonated with listeners, reinforcing Em’s image as a no-holds-barred MC fueled by angst and a little smoke (all rolled in Zig-Zag, of course). It’s a metaphorical prop that grounds his controversial artistry in a tangible piece of smoker culture.

Afroman (Hip-Hop, 2001)

When it comes to outright anthems, Afroman’s 2001 hit “Crazy Rap” (better known for its opening line “Colt 45 and 2 Zig-Zags”) is a prime example. In the song’s famous hook, Afroman cheerily declares: “Colt 45 and 2 Zig-Zags, baby that’s all we need.”

This sing-song lyric (which became a pop culture meme of its own) pairs a cheap malt liquor with two Zig-Zag-rolled joints as the recipe for a good time. The era is the early 2000s, and Afroman’s comedic stoner-rap style turned the Zig-Zag reference into a universally recognized catchphrase. 

Eazy-E (Hip-Hop, 1988)

Going back to hip-hop’s earlier days, Eazy-E of N.W.A dropped a Zig-Zag reference on his 1988 track “No More ?’s.” In a tongue-in-cheek narrative verse, Eazy details a robbery and adds a quirky demand: “Fill the bag, homeboy, don’t lag – I want money, beer, and a pack of Zig-Zags.”

Dropping Zig-Zag into this list of loot (money and beer, plus rolling papers) was both gritty and humorous, reflective of Eazy-E’s persona. The late ’80s era lyric shows that even then, a “pack of Zig-Zags” was shorthand in rap for being a real smoker

Cypress Hill (Hip-Hop/Latin Hip-Hop, 1990s)

Latino hip-hop pioneers Cypress Hill made no secret of their affinity for rolling papers. On their track “Roll It Up, Light It Up, Smoke It Up” (mid-1990s), they pointedly rap: “Where the f** are my zig-zags and my lighters? So I can roll it and set it on fire.” This blunt (no pun intended) line is basically a checklist for a smoke session, with Zig-Zag papers front and center. 

The mention is factual and free of any endorsement; it’s just what any smoker would naturally reach for. In concerts and videos, Cypress Hill often showed paraphernalia; a Zig-Zag pack in this lyric serves as an audio prop that every fan could instantly picture, reinforcing the group’s image as the ultimate smoke-out soundtrack.

Wiz Khalifa (Hip-Hop, 2010s)

Wiz Khalifa, a contemporary flag-bearer of weed-centric rap, has given Zig-Zag its due in the 2010s. Notably, on the track “You Can Put It in a Zag, I’mma Put It in a Blunt,” Wiz raps: “Uhh, zig-zag how I roll mine, you could tell I be a G how I hold mine.” 

In this lyric, Wiz contrasts Zig-Zag papers (“a Zag”) with blunts, ultimately repping his preference for papers. The line “zig-zag how I roll mine” is a proud statement that he sticks to the classic rolling paper method, using it as a mark of expertise and OG status.

Big Brother & The Holding Company / Stanley Mouse Poster (Psychedelic Rock, 1966)

In the rock realm, Zig-Zag’s most famous appearance is arguably in an iconic 1960s psychedelic concert poster rather than a lyric. In June 1966, artists Stanley Mouse and Alton Kelley designed the “Zig-Zag Man” poster for a Big Brother & the Holding Company and Quicksilver Messenger Service show at the Avalon Ballroom. They boldly appropriated the Zig-Zag rolling papers logo, the bearded man and the logo script, as the centerpiece of the poster. 

This visual reference was immediately understood and loved by the hippie audience, since “most every hippie was familiar with the product logo of the Zig-Zag man”. The overt reference to rolling papers symbolized the era’s marijuana-friendly counterculture, and fans “just loved this poster” for its clever use of a counterculture staple.

Kottonmouth Kings (Rap Rock/Punk, 2000s)

Blending punk attitude with hip-hop, the California group Kottonmouth Kings consistently reference weed and rolling papers in their 1990s–2000s catalog. On the track “Frontline” (circa 2004), they rap in rapid-fire: “Fly rhymes, high times… gotta be on the frontline. Zig Zags, chronic sacks, tell the girls they been riding with some big macs.” 

The era is the late ’90s to early ’00s punk/rap crossover scene, where Kottonmouth Kings were proudly underground. The context of the Zig-Zag reference is casual and boastful. They’re basically saying we’ve got the Zig-Zags and the weed, and we’re living large. This line underscores how ingrained Zig-Zag was in youth subculture: even in a genre blending punk rock and hip-hop, the go-to reference for rolling one up is Zig-Zag. 

Captain Beefheart (Psychedelic/Indie Rock, 1967)

Even in the more avant-garde corners of rock, Zig-Zag made its mark. Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band, known for surreal psychedelic blues, released a song in 1967 titled “Zig Zag Wanderer”. While the lyrics themselves are abstract, the very title Zig Zag Wanderer is widely interpreted as a nod to a free-spirited stoner. 

The phrase would immediately evoke Zig-Zag papers to the 1967 listener, linking the song’s imagery to the act of smoking joints. In the context of that late-’60s psychedelic scene, naming a song “Zig Zag” anything was a countercultural wink. It casually baked the rolling paper reference into the art without needing an explicit lyric about smoking. 

What Are the Best Rolling Papers?

The best rolling papers match your style, routine, and preferences. Things like paper type, size, texture, and fold make all the difference. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to look for:

Paper Material

Different paper types burn differently, feel different, and fold differently. No one-size-fits-all.

• Wood Pulp: The classic. What most people start with. It’s durable and easy to handle.

• Rice: Thinner, cleaner look. Burns a little slower but takes practice.

• Hemp: Unrefined, sturdy, with a natural finish. Ideal for folks who want something minimal.

Want to see how we’ve worked across all three? You can check out our full paper collection.

Size & Format

There’s a reason we’ve always offered a range, not everyone rolls the same.

• Single Wide: Old-school. Compact. No frills.

• 1 ¼ Size: Arguably the most popular. Enough room, not too much.

• King Size: Longer format for longer sessions. Also great for sharing.

• Kutcorners: A little cheat code if you’re rolling by hand. The angled edges make it quicker to tuck.

A lot of folks who started with standard sizes eventually try Zig-Zag Kutcorners just to see if it makes rolling smoother. Most don’t go back.

Gum Line Quality

You might not think about the adhesive strip, but once you get a bad one, you’ll never forget it. Cheap glue means your roll comes undone halfway through. A solid gum line means you’re not redoing your work every few minutes. 

Thickness & Texture

• Ultra Thin: Feels barely there. Some folks love that. Others find it tricky.

• Classic Thickness: Easier to grip, less fragile.

• Embossed vs. smooth: Texture isn’t just about looks—it affects how it burns and folds.

If you’re into lighter papers, try our Ultra Thin line for something that’s barely noticeable in hand.

Pack Design

We won’t lie, pack design plays a part. It’s in your pocket. It’s on your table. It says something. Our Vintage Collection was made for people who like their essentials to look like something worth keeping.

Who Are the Top Rolling Paper Brands Right Now?

Several brands have earned recognition for their paper quality, design, and history. Each has its niche, but few carry the legacy and cultural weight of Zig-Zag.

People have opinions. Hardcore loyalists. Newcomers trying what’s trending. And then there's that one friend who swears by whatever comes in a metallic pouch and costs under $2. We've met all of them. Here's what we've noticed from real conversations and a few festival parking lot debates.

1. Zig-Zag

Let’s start here. We’ve been around since 1879. That’s not a flex. That’s a fact. We’ve seen music styles, rolling styles, even slang change, and we’re still in the mix.

Why people reach for us:

• You know what you're getting. Our original papers haven't changed just to follow trends.

• Real history in music, streetwear, and skate culture.

• We offer rice, hemp, and wood pulp in everything from slim to Kutcorners. It’s not one-size-fits-all, and it never was.

2. RAW

New-school king. If you’ve got a friend into organic everything, there’s a good chance they’re pulling out RAWs.

Where they shine:

• Known for unrefined, minimal-process hemp papers.

• Edgy branding that leans into loud social presence.

• Loyal online following, especially with younger rollers.

3. Elements

Smooth burners. You’ll see them mentioned in forums by those who care about even burns and clean finishes.

What they're about:

• Rice-based papers that leave minimal ash.

• Slim, no-frills packaging.

• More niche but solid reputation in the scene.

4. OCB

A European staple. Usually shows up in smoke shops with heritage branding.

Why people like it:

• Thinner papers, clean aesthetic.

• Often preferred by veteran rollers or folks with French ties.

• Not flashy, but dependable.

5. Randy’s

Okay, not for everyone, but that built-in wire? Yeah, it’s a thing.

Use-case:

• Great if you want that roach holder built in.

• Some swear by it. Others never touch it. It’s a love-it-or-leave-it type deal.

Why Is Zig-Zag Still a Classic Choice for Rollers?

Zig-Zag’s been around for over 140 years because it works. Rollers stick with it for the consistency, options, and the cultural weight it quietly carries.

We’re not the trendy new brand with loud packaging or a million influencer posts. That’s never been our thing. What we’ve done instead is make paper that works. Day in, day out. Whether you’re in your first apartment or back in your hometown for the weekend, a Zig-Zag pack feels like it belongs.

Balance of Tradition and Updates

Some brands get stuck in the past. Others ditch their roots to chase trends. We’ve tried not to do either. We’ve kept the look you recognize while updating what needed to evolve, like sourcing, paper finish, and even packaging feel.

That means if you picked up a pack 10 years ago or yesterday, it’ll feel familiar. And if it’s your first time trying Zig-Zag? You’re getting a product with a real story behind it.

What Are the Best Flavored Rolling Papers for an Enhanced Experience?

Flavored rolling papers offer a twist on tradition. But for many, unflavored papers, like those from Zig-Zag, remain the go-to for consistency and control.

Here’s why people keep flavored papers in rotation:

• They switch things up: Not every roll needs to feel the same. Flavored papers offer something different without changing your whole process.

• They’re easier to spot and grab: Ever lose your papers in a cluttered bag? A bold, flavored pack stands out.

• They match the mood: Think berry tones for late-night hangs or classic vanilla for a quieter weekend.

Where Zig-Zag Fits In

Currently, we don’t make flavored papers. We get asked about it sometimes. And the short answer is, we’re not chasing trends. We focus on the classics: clean papers, consistent burn, no gimmicks. That’s what we’re known for, and we’re fine with that.

We’ve seen flavored paper fads come and go. Some burn too fast. Some taste... weird. Others just feel overdone. Let’s be honest, you probably don’t want your rolling papers to taste like birthday cake. You just want them to do their job, maybe with a little extra character.

We’re not here to reinvent what works. Just to keep delivering the kind of paper that doesn’t need extra bells and whistles to stand out.

How Does Flavor Actually Affect the Rolling Experience?

Flavored papers can change how a roll smells, burns, and even feels, but not always in ways people expect. Sometimes it's worth it, sometimes it's not.

What Flavor Changes (and What It Doesn’t):

• Smell hits first: The scent from flavored papers usually comes through the second you open the pack. That’s not always a win.

• Burn rate can be off: Depending on how the flavor’s added, papers may burn unevenly or a bit faster than expected.

• Rolling feel may vary: Some flavored papers are a little thicker or stiffer, which can throw off your usual technique.

• Taste? Kind of hit or miss: The flavor might show up slightly—or not at all once the paper’s lit.

What Doesn’t Change:

• The actual rolling technique (you’re still doing the same thing)

• The end result of the roll

Some users love flavored papers. They’re fun, novelty-driven, and make for a decent change of pace. But most experienced rollers circle back to unflavored classics once the novelty fades. There’s something about that simplicity, rolling with something you trust, no extra surprises.

While Zig-Zag doesn’t offer flavored papers, we do get why some people try them. If you're into switching it up sometimes, no judgment.

Best Organic Rolling Papers: Eco-Friendly Choices

Organic rolling papers are made from natural, minimally processed materials like unrefined hemp or plant fibers. They're chosen by people who prefer fewer additives and a more straightforward roll.

What Goes Into Organic Rolling Papers

• Unrefined Hemp: Probably the most common base. It's durable and doesn’t overprocess the fibers.

• Plant-based Gum: Usually natural gum arabic or acacia sap. Keeps it sealed without added flavoring or synthetic glue.

• No Coloring or Bleaching: That soft brown tint? Totally normal. It’s not supposed to be snow white.

• Minimal Processing: Less heat, less chemical treatment, fewer added steps. It’s as close to the raw plant as it gets (without being, well, raw).

Why People Make the Switch

Not everyone needs to go full organic. But some people do it because:

• They’re trying to avoid unnecessary additives.

• They want a paper that feels more natural in hand.

• They like that slight texture that helps with grip.

• Or they just like how it looks, yeah, that counts too.

What to Try If You’re Curious

If you're thinking about giving organic a shot, there’s a lot out there. But if you want to keep it simple, we’ve got something solid in the lineup: 

Try our Organic Hemp Papers. No extra stuff. Just well-made hemp, rolled into a clean, unbleached pack. It’s a solid switch for anyone looking to change things up without overthinking it.

You’ll notice the feel before you even open the pack.

Which Brands Make the Best Organic Rolling Papers?

A few brands stand out when it comes to organic rolling papers. Each one offers something a little different.

Zig-Zag Organic Hemp

• What it is: Unbleached hemp rolling paper. No dyes. No over-processing.

• Why it works: It’s easy to roll with, has a smooth finish, and doesn’t try too hard to be “eco.”

• What people say: “It felt like a regular Zig-Zag, but more natural. Familiar without being boring.”

We made this line for folks who want the same Zig-Zag feel, just with less going on. 

RAW Organic Hemp

• What it is: Possibly the most name-dropped paper in the organic space. Unrefined hemp, no additives.

• Why it works: Their branding leans loud, but their papers are reliable. They burn slow and come in lots of sizes.

• What to expect: A drier paper feel, slightly crisper texture. Some folks love it. Others find it a little too stiff for casual rolls.

OCB Organic Hemp

• What it is: A French-made paper brand with a subtle, no-flash approach. Light brown, ultra-thin.

• Why it works: Smooth draw, minimal aftertaste. The feel is less fibrous than others.

• Good to know: OCB’s papers are a go-to for those who’ve been rolling for years and just want something understated.

Elements (Rice + Other Variants)

• Wait, rice? Yes, but some of their newer offerings include organic-friendly materials.

• Why it’s included: Elements isn’t just rice anymore. Their hybrid papers are starting to show up more in eco-conscious lineups.

• Texture-wise: Think slicker, almost waxy. You’ll notice a huge difference if you’re switching from hemp.

Choosing One? Here’s What Matters:

• Feel in hand: If it feels too delicate or too thick, you're not gonna enjoy the process.

• Stick line quality: Some organic papers have spotty glue strips. Test one before rolling five.

• Burn control: It’s not always about slow burn. It’s about consistent burn.

Conclusion: Finding Your Style with Zig-Zag Rolling Papers

If you’ve made it this far, you already know: rolling papers are about more than just paper. They’re part of your setup. Your routine. 

Some people lean into culture. Others are here for the function. Maybe it’s the legacy that matters to you. Or maybe you’re just looking for something that won’t fold up or tear halfway through.

We get that.

We’ve seen our packs in jam sessions, green rooms, rooftop parties, road trips, and shoebox drawers. There’s no one “right” way to roll. But there is something satisfying about finding your go-to pack.

Whatever you pick, you’re not just choosing a paper. You’re picking a part of your process. And that should feel good, without being complicated.