Introduction
Willie Nelson’s “Roll Me Up” isn’t your typical somber ballad about death. Released in 2012 on his album “Heroes,” the song takes a surprisingly lighthearted, even humorous approach to mortality.
The origins of the song trace back to Nelson himself. The title directly references his 2010 book “Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die: Musings from the Road,” a collection of his thoughts and experiences on life on tour. The book’s title, both blunt and cheeky, reflects Nelson’s characteristically direct and independent spirit.
The song itself is a short, two-verse, one-chorus declaration. Nelson sings about his wishes for a post-mortem send-off, opting to be rolled up “and smoked” rather than a traditional burial. The lyrics challenge anyone who might disapprove, urging them to “just look ’em in the eye.” It’s a darkly comedic but ultimately life-affirming message – a reminder to embrace life’s impermanence with a touch of good humor.
“Roll Me Up” wasn’t a solo effort for Nelson. The album version features guest appearances by country stars Kris Kristofferson and Jamey Johnson, along with rapper Snoop Dogg. This unexpected collaboration between country music legends and a hip-hop icon adds another layer of intrigue to the song.
Whether you take the lyrics literally or interpret them more metaphorically, “Roll Me Up” is a classic Willie Nelson tune. It’s a folksy, laid-back song that tackles a serious subject with a wink and a smile.