Few singer-songwriters have known such commercial success as Melissa Etheridge. Her decades-spanning career earned numerous awards and accolades while building a cult-like following of fans. She topped the charts with hits like I’m the Only One and Come to My Window, while staying true to her unique style and powerhouse vocals. Etheridge’s activism on behalf of gay rights, breast cancer awareness, and medical marijuana have further cemented her status as an icon and innovator.

Now, she’s continuing her legacy of activism with the Etheridge Foundation. The non-profit was established in honor of her son Beckett Cypher, who passed away in early 2020 as a result of an opioid addiction. The foundation aims to find new ways to understand and treat underlying mental health issues associated with addiction and to help those suffering find relief.

Cannabis & Tech Today Managing Editor Patricia Miller spoke with Etheridge via video conference, in traditional 2020 style, to learn how she stayed connected with fans while touring was on hold. In this exclusive interview, she shares her thoughts on technology, cannabis, and creativity — both as outlets for her grief and her passion. She joins us from her home studio in Los Angeles, California.