Dear music lovers, today I’m shining the spotlight on one of the true greats of dancehall reggae – the legendary Buju Banton. This gravelly voice started commanding the mic as a young pup in the late ’80s, I’m a die hard fan. Come take a musical journey with me through this Kingston native’s storied career.
Can you believe Buju also known as Gargamel first started performing on Jamaica’s soundsystems while barely even a teenager, wowing crowds with precocious early hits like “Love Me Browning”? But it was his boundary-pushing work in the 1990s that solidified his icon status in the books many.
When his fifth studio album ‘Til Shiloh dropped in ’95, conscious anthems like “Untold Stories” and “Not An Easy Road” became instant classics. Yet dancehall bangers like “Champion” proved Buju could also spit bars with the best of ’em. His craft and versatility shone.
Read also: Spreading Truth and Rights Through Reggae: The Legacy Of Joseph Hill
Bob Marley: Still Banking Records From Beyond the Grave
After years away from music, Buju came back stronger than ever in the 2010s, with his freedom-themed Long Walk to Freedom tour electrifying adoring crowds worldwide. Now in his 50s, he’s still crafting new musical gems that make me nostalgic for 90s Kingston.
Nearly 30 years deep, Buju’s catalog overflows with iconic reggae joints that take me back. And his resilience through tough times remains inspiring. Big up to a true OG!
Do check out his latest album “Born for Greatness” on all platforms
Circumstances made me who I am… I don't really know the title. That tune is barrd