“People shouldn’t be in jail in Louisiana for selling what we smoke legally in California. It makes no sense. This is a drug for many people and it should be legal and accessible; Period,” says musician big Freedia, born Freddie Ross Jr., in an exclusive interview with Benzinga cannabis.

The artist whose collaboration with hit #1 on the Billboard charts this year beyonceBreak My Soul, recently released their own brand of cannabis, Royal bud.

“I’ve been thinking for a long time; it was a natural next deal for me. It was about finding the time and the right people for a partnership,” explains Freedia. “Cannabis plays a big part in my everyday life and I wanted Royal Bud to be inclusive and enjoyed by all.”

And she adds, “Anyone can be royal.”

‘grass’ a purpose

Big Freedia who has collaborated with big names like LizzoKesha, New Kids on the Block, Naughty by Nature, Boyz II Men and drake, has, among other things, a long track record as a cannabis connoisseur.

“I love hemp. My relationship with it has changed over the years based on what’s happening with my work and personal life, but overall it’s a part of my life,” she says. “It stimulates my creativity in the studio, relieves muscle tension, helps me sleep when I’m on the road… It’s beneficial in so many ways.”

Such a close relationship with the herb meant Royal Bud couldn’t be just another celebrity cannabis Brand. It had to be unique.

That’s why Royal Bud was founded with a clear goal: to empower the growing community of black, brown, queer and women-owned brands writing a new chapter cannabis Story. It therefore made sense to cooperate with Green Qween -a queer-owned and social justice-licensed pharmacy in downtown Los Angeles- for launch.

“I want to work with and support LGBTQ+ shops, social justice licensed companies and individuals in this space who have historically been marginalized in the industry Cannabis…