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Buju Banton, a titan in reggae and dancehall, has shaped Jamaican music for over three decades with his powerful voice and thought-provoking lyrics. The ‘Gargamel’ burst onto the musical scene in the early ‘90s with hits like Bogle and Big It Up. He quickly became a household name, blending gritty dancehall beats with socially conscious themes. His album, ‘Til Shiloh, marked a pivotal turn toward roots reggae, earning him international acclaim and solidifying his status as a musical visionary. Despite facing personal challenges, Buju’s resilience and artistry have remained unwavering. His comeback album, Upside Down 2020, reaffirmed his place at the forefront of global reggae.
As a Grammy Award-winning artiste, philanthropist, and Red Stripe Living Legend awardee, he continues to captivate global audiences. His music is a powerful reflection of struggle, triumph, and the indomitable spirit of Jamaica. His latest ‘Overcomer Tour’ has been hailed as one of the most successful solo reggae tours in North America, according to the 2024 Caribbean Music Report. With the Intimate Concert on the horizon, featuring himself, Beres Hammond, Marcia Griffiths, Wayne Wonder, Romain Virgo, among others, we caught up with Buju for 5 Questions With...
1. Reflecting on the Overcomer Tour, what were the standout moments, and how did the experience deepen your connection with global audiences?
The Overcomer Tour was a powerful journey, and one of the standout moments was seeing how receptive the international community is to our music. It was important for me to deliver the message that reggae isn’t about violence. Our music has the power to uplift people, no matter where they come from. We’ve shown the world that reggae is the voice of the people – a force that brings us together. Although our music isn’t always represented internationally as it should be, this tour proved that when we come together, reggae can touch hearts globally. This experience deepened my connection with audiences, and I look forward to continuing this mission with the Intimate Concert in Jamaica and beyond.
2.The Intimate Concert experience has become a staple for fans. What sets this year’s edition apart, and what can patrons expect?
We aim to make it more epic and entertaining. One thing I pride myself on is presentation. Our music is under-represented globally, and this is about educating the new generation by example, showing them the direction reggae should be going in to enhance their posterity and enable their earning potential. We are presenting the crème of the crop on January 4.
3. Before becoming the ‘Gargamel’, what did you do for a living?
I was a welder at an engineering company. I was responsible for making the rollers at National Bakery to ensure the bread was cut precisely.
4. With decades of musical brilliance behind you, how do you envision your journey in reggae evolving in the years to come?
I am committed to elevating reggae music to the place it deserves to be, where younger artistes can take a page from the musical book. Soon, I will close this chapter, and they will carry the music forward. I don’t plan on being a 70-year-old man still singing.
5. As a cultural icon, what message or lessons do you hope to impart to the younger generation through your legacy?
Before, we were talented; now, we are followers. What it takes is the ability to deliver, have proper production, and a good team behind you to execute. This is what we want to pass on to the younger generation, so they can inculcate this and take the music further.
English (US) ·