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{{Short description|Jamaican dancehall, ragga, and reggae singer (born 1973)}}
{{Distinguish|Burro Banton|Pato Banton}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2020}}
{{Use Jamaican English|date=March 2012}}
{{Infobox musical artist <!-- See Wikipedia:WikiProject Musicians -->
| name = Buju Banton
| image = Buju Banton at Ilosaarirock, Joensuu, July 2006.jpg
| background caption = solo_singerBanton in 2006
| birth_name = Mark Anthony Myrie
| alias = Gargamel
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1973|7|15|df=yes}}
| birth_place = [[Kingston, Jamaica|Kingston]], [[Jamaica]]
| origin =
| genre = {{hlist|[[Dancehall]]|[[roots reggae]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/buju-banton-mn0000939187|title = Buju Banton Songs, Albums, Reviews, Bio & More|website = [[AllMusic]]}}</ref>}}
| death_date =
| occupations = {{hlist|Singer|songwriter}}
| death_place =
| years_active = {{flatlist|
| genre = [[Reggae]], [[dancehall]], [[reggae fusion]], [[roots reggae]], [[negro spiritual]], [[folk music|folk]], [[dub music|dub]]
* 1987–2011
| occupation = Deejay, singer, songwriter, musician
| years_active = 1987–2011,* 2018–present
| label = Gargamel Music<br />[[Mercury Records|Mercury]]/[[PolyGram Records]]<br />Loose Cannon/[[Island Records|Island]]/[[PolyGram Records]]<br />[[Tommy Boy Entertainment]]<br />[[VP Records]]<br />[[Penthouse Records]]<br /> [[Roc Nation]]
| associated_acts =
| current_members =
| past_members =
}}
| label = {{hlist|Techniques|[[Penthouse Records|Penthouse]]|[[Mercury Records|Mercury]]|[[PolyGram]]|Loose Cannon|[[Island Records|Island]]|[[VP Records|VP]]|Gargamel Music|[[Roc Nation]]}}
'''Buju Banton''' (born '''Mark Anthony Myrie'''; 15 July 1973)<ref name="Larkin">Larkin, Colin (1998) "The Virgin Encyclopedia of Reggae", Virgin Books, {{ISBN|0-7535-0242-9}}</ref> is a [[Jamaicans|Jamaican]] [[reggae]] [[dancehall]] recording artist. He is widely considered one of the most significant and well-regarded artists in [[Music of Jamaica|Jamaican music]].<ref name="Guardian">{{cite news|last1=MacLeod |first1=Erin |title='Man is a king': controversial star Buju Banton comes home to Jamaica |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2018/dec/07/buju-banton-return-jamaica-long-walk-to-freedom-tour |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |accessdate=26 February 2019 |date=7 December 2018}}</ref><ref name="CNN">{{cite web |last1=Karmini |first1=Faith |title=Jamaican reggae star Buju Banton released from US prison |url=https://www.cnn.com/2018/12/09/entertainment/buju-banton-released-from-prison/index.html |website=Cnn.com|accessdate=26 February 2019 |date=9 December 2018}}</ref><ref name="MNT">{{cite news|last1=Iannelli |first1=Jerry |title=Reggae star Buju Banton released from prison after Florida drug case |url=https://www.miaminewtimes.com/music/reggae-star-buju-banton-released-from-prison-10945723 |newspaper=[[Miami New Times]] |accessdate=26 February 2019 |date=7 December 2018}}</ref> Banton has collaborated with many international artists, including those in the [[Hip Hop]], [[Latin music|Latin]] and [[punk rock]] genres, as well as the sons of [[Bob Marley]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bujubanton.com/biography/|title=Biography|date=7 May 2018|website=Bujubanton.com|language=en-US|access-date=17 December 2018}}</ref>
| associated_acts = {{hlist|[[Wayne Wonder]]|[[Beres Hammond]]}}
| website =
}}
'''Mark Anthony Myrie''' (born 15 July 1973),<ref name="Larkin">Larkin, Colin (1998) "The Virgin Encyclopedia of Reggae", Virgin Books, {{ISBN|0-7535-0242-9}}</ref> known professionally as '''Buju Banton''', is a Jamaican [[dancehall]], [[ragga]], and [[reggae]] singer. He is one of the most significant and well-regarded artists in [[Music of Jamaica|Jamaican music]].<ref name="Guardian">{{cite news|last1=MacLeod |first1=Erin |title='Man is a king': controversial star Buju Banton comes home to Jamaica |url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2018/dec/07/buju-banton-return-jamaica-long-walk-to-freedom-tour |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |access-date=26 February 2019 |date=7 December 2018}}</ref><ref name="CNN">{{cite web |last1=Karmini |first1=Faith |title=Jamaican reggae star Buju Banton released from US prison |url=https://www.cnn.com/2018/12/09/entertainment/buju-banton-released-from-prison/index.html |website=Cnn.com|access-date=26 February 2019 |date=9 December 2018}}</ref><ref name="MNT">{{cite news|last1=Iannelli |first1=Jerry |title=Reggae star Buju Banton released from prison after Florida drug case |url=https://www.miaminewtimes.com/music/reggae-star-buju-banton-released-from-prison-10945723 |newspaper=[[Miami New Times]] |access-date=26 February 2019 |date=7 December 2018}}</ref> Banton has collaborated with many international artists, including those in the [[Hip hop music|hip hop]], [[Latin music|Latin]] and [[punk rock]] genres, as well as the sons of [[Bob Marley]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bujubanton.com/biography/|title=Biography|date=7 May 2018|website=Bujubanton.com|language=en-US|access-date=17 December 2018|archive-date=26 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180826063804/https://bujubanton.com/biography/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
 
Banton released a number of dancehall singles as early as 1987 but came to prominence in 1992 with two albums, ''[[Stamina Daddy]]'' and ''[[Mr. Mention]]'', the latter which becamebecoming the best-selling album in Jamaican history upon its release.<ref name=billboard>{{cite web |last1=Meschino |first1=Patricia |title=Buju Banton to Return With The Long Walk to Freedom Concert In 2019 |url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/news/8490821/buju-banton-long-walk-to-freedom-concert-2019 |website=Billboard.com |accessdateaccess-date=26 February 2019 |date=18 December 2018}}</ref> That year he also broke the record for #No. 1 singles in [[Jamaica]], previouspreviously held by [[Bob Marley and the Wailers]].<ref name="SFGate">{{cite web |last1=Arnold |first1=Erik K. |title=Reggae star as lightning rod |url=https://www.sfgate.com/entertainment/article/Reggae-star-as-lightning-rod-Anti-gay-lyrics-of-2468707.php |website=SFGate.com |publisher=San Francisco Chronicle |accessdateaccess-date=26 February 2019 |date=6 October 2006}}</ref> He signed with the major label [[Mercury Records]] and released ''[[Voice of Jamaica]]'' in 1993. By the mid-1990s, Banton's music became more influenced by his [[Rastafari]] faith, as heard on the seminal albums ''[['Til Shiloh]]'' and ''[[Inna Heights]]''.
 
In 2009, he was arrested onfor drug-relatedcocaine trafficking charges in the [[United States]] and, his first trial resultedresulting in a hung jury. His 2010 album ''[[Before the Dawn (Buju Banton album)|Before the Dawn]]'' won a [[Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album]] at the [[2011 Grammy Awards|53rd annualAnnual Grammy Awards]]. In 2011, he was convicted on the sameaforementioned criminal charge and was [[Imprisonment|imprisoned]] in the U.S. until December 2018, whereupon he was released, and deported<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://caribbeantoday.com/caribbean-news/local-news/item/21148-buju-banton-to-be-deported-back-to-jamaica-in-2019.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150523034522/http://caribbeantoday.com/caribbean-news/local-news/item/21148-buju-banton-to-be-deported-back-to-jamaica-in-2019.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=23 May 2015|title=Buju Banton To Be Deported Back To Jamaica In 2019|first=News|last=Americas|website=Caribbeantoday.com}}</ref> home to [[Jamaica]].
 
==Biography==
===Background===
Buju Banton was born in [[Kingston, Jamaica|Kingston]], Jamaica, in aan poor neighbourhoodarea known as SaltBarbican Road, Kingston Lane8. Buju is a nickname given to him by his mother as a child. ''Banton'' is a Jamaican word that refers to someone who is a respected storyteller, and it was adopted by Myrie in tribute to the [[Deejay (Jamaican)|deejay]] [[Burro Banton]], whom Bujuhe admired as a child.<ref name="Thompson">Thompson, Dave (2002) "Reggae & Caribbean Music", Backbeat Books, {{ISBN|0-87930-655-6}}</ref> Buju emulated Burro's rough vocals and forceful delivery, developing his own distinctive style. Buju's mother was a [[higgler]], or [[street vendor]], while his father worked as a labourer at a [[tile]] factory. He was the youngest of fifteen children born into a family that was directly descended from the [[maroon (people)|Maroons]] of Jamaica. In August 2024, Banton said he had traced his origin to the [[Igbo people in Jamaica|Igbo people]] according to his bloodline. Igbo is an ethnic group predominantly found in [[Igbo people|Nigeria]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Itodo |first=Sunny Green |date=2024-08-18 |title='I am an Igbo man' - Jamaican reggae legend, Buju Banton reveals |url=https://dailypost.ng/2024/08/18/i-am-an-igbo-man-jamaican-reggae-legend-buju-banton-reveals/ |access-date=2024-08-18 |website=Daily Post Nigeria |language=en-US}}</ref> Singer Sean Kingston allege that Banton is his uncle, but that story is yet to be proven true.
 
Banton has homes in [[Jamaica]] and [[Tamarac, Florida]] (United States).<ref>"[http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/960784/buju-banton-pleads-not-guilty-to-drug-charge Buju Banton Pleads Not Guilty To Drug Charge]", billboard.com, 8 January 2010. Retrieved 31 August 2013</ref><ref>Walker, Karyl (2010) "[http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Buju-stands-alone_7967273 'Buju' stands alone] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131219021757/http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Buju-stands-alone_7967273 |date=19 December 2013 }}", ''[[Jamaica Observer]]'', 16 September 2010. Retrieved 31 August 2013</ref> He also has 1517 children.<ref>Henry, Paul (2011) "[httphttps://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Emotionaljamaica-pleas-for-Buju_8995518 'Please spare our dad' — Buju's kids appeal to judge] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130811150228/http://www.jamaicaobservergleaner.com/newsarticle/Emotional-pleas-for-Buju_8995518 |date=11 August 2013 }}", ''[[Jamaica Observer]]'', 12 June 2011. Retrieved 31 August 2013<entertainment/ref><ref>Stacy, Motch (2011) "[http:20181211//usatoday30.usatoday.com/life/people/2011buju-06banton-23father-Bujuand-Banton-cocaine-prison_n.htm Reggae starcomedian Buju Banton, getsFather 10& years in drug caseComedian]", [[USA Today]], 23 June 2011. Retrieved 31 August 2013</ref>
 
===Early career===
As a youngster, BujuBanton would often watch his favourite artists perform at outdoor shows and local dancehalls in [[Denham Town]]. At the age of 12, he picked up the [[microphone]] for himself and began [[Deejay (Jamaican)|toasting]] under the moniker of [[Gargamel]], working with the Sweet Love and [[Rambo Mango]] [[Sound system (Jamaican)|sound systems]].<ref name="Thompson" /> In 1986, he was introduced to producer [[Robert Ffrench]] by fellow deejay [[Clement Irie]], and his first single, "The Ruler" was released not long afterward in 1987.<ref name="Thompson" /> This led to recording sessions with producers such as Patrick Roberts, [[Bunny Lee]], [[Winston Riley]], and [[Digital B]].{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}
 
===1990s===
In 1991, BujuBanton joined [[Donovan Germain]]'s [[Penthouse Records]] label and began a fruitful partnership with producer [[Dave Kelly (producer)|Dave Kelly]] who later launched his own "[[Madhouse Records (Jamaican record label)|Madhouse Records]]" label.<ref name="Thompson" /> BujuBanton is one of the most popular musicians in [[History of Jamaica|Jamaican history]], having major chart success in 1992, with "Bogle" and "Love me [[Jamaican Patois|Browning]]", both massive hits in Jamaica. Controversy erupted over "Love Me Browning" which spoke of Banton's [[sexual orientation|penchant]] for brownlighter-skinned black women: "Mi love my car mi love my bike mi love mi money and ting, but most of all mi love mi browning." Some accused Banton of denigrating the beauty of darker -skinned black women. In response, he released "Love Black Woman,", which spoke of his love for dark-skinned beauties: "Mi nuh Stop cry, fi all black women, respect all the girls dem with dark [[complexion]]".<ref name="Barrow">Barrow, Steve & Dalton, Peter (2004) "The Rough Guide to Reggae, 3rd edn.", Rough Guides, {{ISBN|1-84353-329-4}}</ref> 1992 was an explosive year for BujuBanton as he broke [[Bob Marley]]'s record for the greatest number of #1 singles in a year. BujuBanton's gruff voice dominated the Jamaican airwaves for the duration of the year. Banton'sHis debut album, ''[[Mr. Mention]]'', includes many of his greatest hits from that year including "Bonafide Love" featuring Wayne Wonder, the singer who first brought BujuBanton out as a guest star on the annual Jamaican stage show Sting.{{Citation 1992 also saw the unsanctioned re-release of "Boom Bye Bye," a controversial song recorded several years earlier when the artist was 15 years old, which resulted in a backlash that threatened to destroy his career.<ref nameneeded|date="Thompson"December /> several years later, the song would later become the subject of outrage in the United States and Europe, leading to Banton being dropped from the line-up of the [[WOMAD]] festival as well as numerous other scheduled performances.<ref name="Thompson" /> Banton subsequently issued a public apology.<ref name="Thompson" />2023}}
 
1992 also saw the unsanctioned re-release of "Boom Bye Bye", a controversial song recorded several years earlier in 1988 when the artist was 15 years old, which resulted in a backlash that threatened to destroy his career.<ref name="Thompson" /> Several years later, the song would later become the subject of outrage in the United States and Europe, leading to Banton being dropped from the line-up of the [[World of Music, Arts and Dance|WOMAD]] festival as well as numerous other scheduled performances.<ref name="Thompson" /> Banton subsequently issued a public apology.<ref name="Thompson" />
Now on the major [[Mercury Records|Mercury]]/[[PolyGram Records]] label, Banton released the hard-hitting ''[[Voice of Jamaica]]'' in 1993. The album included a number of conscious tracks. These tracks included "Deportees", a song which criticises those Jamaicans who went abroad but never sent money home; "Tribal War" a collaboration with Tony Rebel, Brian & Tony Gold, and Terry Ganzie, a sharp condemnation of political violence that interpolates [[Little Roy]]'s classic reggae song of the same name; and "Willy, Don't Be Silly", which promotes [[safe sex]] and the use of [[contraceptives]], particularly the [[condom]], profits from which were donated to a charity supporting children with [[AIDS]].<ref name="Thompson" /> Banton was invited to meet Jamaican Prime Minister [[P. J. Patterson]], and won several awards that year at the [[Caribbean Music Awards]] and the [[Canadian Music Awards]].<ref name="Thompson" />
 
Now on the major [[Mercury Records|Mercury]]/[[PolyGram]] label, Banton released the hard-hitting ''[[Voice of Jamaica]]'' in 1993. The album included a number of conscious tracks. These tracks included "Deportees", a song which criticises those Jamaicans who went abroad but never sent money home; "Tribal War" a collaboration with [[Tony Rebel]], [[Brian and Tony Gold|Brian & Tony Gold]], and Terry Ganzie, a sharp condemnation of political violence that interpolates [[Little Roy]]'s classic reggae song of the same name; and "Willy, Don't Be Silly", which promotes [[safe sex]] and the use of contraceptives, particularly the condom, profits from which were donated to a charity supporting children with [[HIV/AIDS|AIDS]].<ref name="Thompson" /> Banton was invited to meet Jamaican Prime Minister [[P. J. Patterson]], and won several awards that year at the Caribbean Music Awards and the Canadian Music Awards.<ref name="Thompson" />
Some of Banton's lyrics dealt with violent themes, which he explained as reflecting the images that young Jamaicans were presented with by the news media. The reality of Kingston's violence was brought home in 1993 by the murders in separate incidents of three of his friends and fellow recording artists, the deejays [[Pan Head]] and Dirtsman and singer Mickey Simpson.<ref name="Thompson" /> His response was the single "Murderer", which condemned gun violence, going against the flow of the prevailing lyrical content in dancehall. The song inspired several clubs to stop playing songs with the excessively violent subject matter. Late in 1994, Buju was also affected by the death of his friend [[Garnett Silk]]. Buju's transformation continued, as he embraced the [[Rastafari movement]] and began growing [[dreadlocks]]. His performances and musical releases took on a [http://www.boomshots.com/index.php/2014/07/reasoning-with-buju-banton-my-life-is-an-open-book/ more spiritual tone]. Banton toured Europe and Japan, playing sold-out shows.
 
Some of Banton's lyrics dealt with violent themes, which he explained as reflecting the images that young Jamaicans were presented with by the news media. The reality of Kingston's violence was brought home in 1993 by the murders in separate incidents of three of his friends and fellow recording artists, the deejays [[Pan Head]] and Dirtsman and singer Mickey Simpson.<ref name="Thompson" /> His response was the single "Murderer", which condemned gun violence, going against the flow of the prevailing lyrical content in dancehall. The song inspired several clubs to stop playing songs with the excessively violent subject matter. Late in 1994, Banton was also affected by the death of his friend [[Garnett Silk]]. Banton's transformation continued, as he embraced the [[Rastafari movement]] and began growing dreadlocks. His performances and musical releases took on a more spiritual tone. Banton toured Europe and Japan, playing sold-out shows.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}
''[['Til Shiloh]]'' (1995) was a very influential album, incorporating live instrumentation as well as digital rhythms, and incorporating the sounds of [[roots reggae]] along with the harder-edged dancehall sounds that first made Banton famous. The artist was embracing his Rastafari faith and his new album reflected these beliefs. ''Til Shiloh'' successfully blended conscious lyrics with a hard-hitting dancehall vibe. The album included earlier singles such as "Murderer" along with instant classics like "Wanna Be Loved" and "[[Untold Stories (Buju Banton song)|Untold Stories]]". "Untold Stories" revealed an entirely different side of Buju Banton from the one that had stormed to dancehall stardom. It is regarded by many as one of his best works and has become a staple in the Banton performance repertoire. Reminiscent in mood and delivery to "[[Redemption Song]]" by [[Bob Marley]], "Untold Stories" won Buju Banton many favorable comparisons to the late singer. This album had a profound impact on dancehall music and proved that dancehall audiences had not forgotten the message that Roots Reggae expounded with the use of "conscious lyrics". Dancehall artists did not abandon slack and violent lyrics altogether, but the album did pave the way for a greater spirituality within the music. In the wake of Buju's transformation to [[Rastafari]], many artists, such as [[Capleton]], embraced the faith and began to denounce violence in their music.
 
''[['Til Shiloh]]'' (1995) was a very influential album, incorporating live instrumentation as well as digital rhythms, and incorporating the sounds of roots reggae along with the harder-edged dancehall sounds that first made Banton famous. The artist was embracing his Rastafari faith and his new album reflected these beliefs. ''Til Shiloh'' successfully blended conscious lyrics with a hard-hitting dancehall vibe. The album included earlier singles such as "Murderer" along with "Wanna Be Loved" and "[[Untold Stories (Buju Banton song)|Untold Stories]]". In 1996, BujuBanton contributed "Wanna Be Loved (Desea ser Amado)" along with [[Los Pericos]] to the [[Red Hot Organization]]'s album ''[[Silencio=Muerte: Red Hot + Latin]]'' for the [[Red Hot Benefit Series]]. This series raises money to increase AIDS awareness.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}
 
That same year Buju, Banton took control of his business by establishing his own Gargamel Music label, releasing the popular single "Love Sponge" on vinyl in Jamaica and overseas. In years to come, Gargamel would expand into an outlet for BujuBanton's own productions.{{Citation andneeded|date=December providing an outlet for fresh new talent.2023}}
 
''[[Inna Heights]]'' (1997) substantially increased Banton's international audience as Bujuhe explored his singing ability and recorded a number of [[roots reggae|roots]]-tinged tracks, including the hugely popular "Destiny" and "Hills and Valleys". The album also included collaborations with artists such as [[Beres Hammond]] and the legendary [[Toots Hibbert]]. The album was well- received by fans at the time and critics praised BujuBanton's soaring vocals. The album has aged well and remains a highly regarded work over 20 years after its release. In 1998, Banton met the [[Punk rock|punk]] band [[Rancid (band)|Rancid]] and recorded three tracks with them: "No More Misty Days", "Hooligans" and "Life Won't Wait". The latter became the title track of Rancid's 1998 album ''[[Life Won't Wait]]''.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}
 
In 1998, Buju met the [[Punk rock|punk]] band [[Rancid (band)|Rancid]] and recorded three tracks with them: "No More Misty Days", "Hooligans" and "[[Life Won't Wait]]". The latter became the title track of Rancid's 1998 album, ''[[Life Won't Wait]]''.
 
===2000s===
[[File:Buju Banton (Apollo theater, 2007).jpg|thumb|right|150px|Buju Banton performing in 2007.]]
BujuBanton signed with [[Anti- (record label)|Anti- Records]], a subsidiary of [[Brett Gurewitz]]'s [[Epitaph Records]] records, and released ''[[Unchained Spirit]]'' in 2000.<ref name="Moskowitz">Moskowitz, David V. (2006) ''Caribbean Popular Music: an Encyclopedia of Reggae, Mento, Ska, Rock Steady, and Dancehall'', Greenwood Press, {{ISBN|0-313-33158-8}}, p.20</ref> The album showcased diverse musical styles, and featured guest appearances by [[Luciano (singer)|Luciano]], [[Morgan Heritage]], [[Stephen Marley (musician)|Stephen Marley]], and [[Rancid (band)|Rancid]]. It carried little of the roots feel heard on ''Til Shiloh'' and virtually none of the hardcore dancehall sound which had brought him to public acclaim early in his career.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}
 
Several singles followed in the start of the new decade, which was perceived as more mellow and introspective, as opposed to the dancehall approach of his early career. In March 2003, Banton released ''[[Friends for Life (Buju Banton album)|Friends for Life]]'', which featured more sharply political songs, including "Mr. Nine", an anti-gun song that was a hit in Jamaica's dancehalls as well as internationally.<ref>Spaulding, Gary. [http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20091213/lead/lead2.html Buju's colourful career] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110225135619/http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20091213/lead/lead2.html |date=25 February 2011 }}. ''Jamaica Gleaner''. 13 December 2009. Retrieved 28 February 2011.</ref> The album focused on political messages regarding the [[African diaspora]], featuring excerpts from a speech made by [[Marcus Garvey]]. "Paid Not Played", also featured on the album, displayed a gradual return to the themes more popular in dancehall. The album also featured some [[Hip hop music|hip hop]] influence with the inclusion of rapper [[Fat Joe]].{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}
 
2006 saw the release of the ''[[Too Bad (album)|Too Bad]]'', an album that was more dancehall-oriented in style. One of the slower tracks from the album, "[[Driver A]]", went on to become a major hit, while at the same time reviving [[Sly and Robbie]]'s "[[Taxi" (Buju[[riddim]]. Banton songperformed at the [[2007 Cricket World Cup]] Opening Ceremony with [[Third World (band)|TaxiThird World]]" riddimand [[Beres Hammond]]. The album ''Rasta Got Soul'' was released in 2009. Produced by Banton, with contributions from longtime collaborators [[Donovan Germain]], Stephen Marsden and [[Wyclef Jean]], ''Rasta Got Soul'' was a 100% roots reggae album recorded over a seven-year period before its release. It went on to earn Banton his fourth Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album in 2010.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}
 
[[File:Buju Banton mug shot.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Mug shot of Banton taken shortly after his arrest]]
Banton performed at the [[Cricket World Cup 2007]] [[Cricket World Cup 2007 Opening Ceremony|Opening Ceremony]] with [[Third World (band)|Third World]] and [[Beres Hammond]].
In December 2009, [[Drug Enforcement Administration]] agents remanded Banton to custody in Miami, where the U.S. Attorney charged him with conspiracy to distribute and possession of more than five kilograms of [[cocaine]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/reggae-star-buju-banton-arrested-for-5-kilo-cocaine-buy-say-feds/ |title=Reggae Star Buju Banton Arrested for 5-Kilo Cocaine Buy, Say Feds |author=Katz, Neil |date=14 December 2009 |work=CBSNews.com |access-date=9 July 2011}}</ref> Banton was then moved to the [[Pinellas County Sheriff's Office|Pinellas County Jail]] where he remained until trial.
A six-day trial in [[Tampa, Florida]] was declared a [[mistrial]] on 27 September 2010, after the jury was unable to reach a unanimous decision.<ref name=Hutcheson>{{cite web |url=http://www.tampabay.com/news/courts/article1124448.ece |title=Mistrial declared in drug conspiracy case against reggae star Buju Banton |author=Hutcheson, Nicole |date=28 September 2010 |work=St. Petersburg Times |publisher=TampaBay.com |access-date=9 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101001193544/http://www.tampabay.com/news/courts/article1124448.ece |archive-date=1 October 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> During the trial, audio recordings were presented of Banton and a drug-dealer-turned-[[informant|government-informant]] discussing drugs, drug prices and smuggling. Banton was also seen on a video recording meeting the informant in a police-controlled warehouse tasting cocaine from a kilogram bag.<ref name=Hutcheson /> The informant was reportedly paid $50,000 for his work on the case.<ref name=Hutcheson />
The singer was released that November on bond.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.jamaicanewsbulletin.com/arts-a-living-mainmenu-78/62-entertainment/2664-buju-banton-released-from-jail.html/ |title=Buju Banton Released From Jail |access-date=22 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924145150/http://www.jamaicanewsbulletin.com/arts-a-living-mainmenu-78/62-entertainment/2664-buju-banton-released-from-jail.html/ |archive-date=24 September 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
 
He was allowed to perform one concert between trials, which was held on 16 January 2011 to a sold-out crowd in Miami.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/crossfade/2011/01/last_night_buju_banton_and_fri.php |title=Buju Banton and Friends Concert at Bayfront Park Amphitheather, January 16 |author=Park, Esther |date=17 January 2011 |work=Miami New Times |access-date=9 July 2011}}</ref> A few weeks after the performance, he was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://bujubanton.com/biography/|title=Biography - Buju Banton|date=7 May 2018|work=Buju Banton|access-date=9 July 2018|language=en-US|archive-date=26 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180826063804/https://bujubanton.com/biography/|url-status=dead}}</ref> but was not allowed to attend the ceremony.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}
The album ''Rasta Got Soul'' was released on 21 April 2009, a date which marked the 43rd anniversary of Emperor [[Haile Selassie]]'s visit to Jamaica in 1966. Produced by Banton, with contributions from longtime collaborators [[Donovan Germain]], [[Stephen Marsden]] and [[Wyclef Jean]], ''Rasta Got Soul'' was a 100% roots reggae album recorded over a seven-year period before its release. It went on to earn Banton his fourth Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album in 2010.
 
===2010s===
On 13 February 2011, one day before the scheduled start of his second court trial in [[Tampa, Florida]], Banton's ''Before the Dawn'' album was announced as the winner of Best Reggae Album at the [[53rd Annual Grammy Awards]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Buju-to-be-re-indicted-before-grand-jury |title=Buju to be re-indicted before grand jury – News |publisher=JamaicaObserver.com |date=29 September 2010 |access-date=19 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110628183549/http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Buju-to-be-re-indicted-before-grand-jury |archive-date=28 June 2011}}</ref>
 
On 22 February 2011, Banton was found guilty of [[Conspiracy (criminal)|conspiracy]] to possess with intent to distribute five or more kilograms of cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offense and using communication wires to facilitate a drug-trafficking offense. He was found not guilty on the charge of attempted possession of five kilograms or more of cocaine.<ref name=guilty>Luton, Daraine. [http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110223/lead/lead1.html Destiny – Buju Banton found guilty – Sentencing date to be determined]. ''Jamaica Gleaner''. Retrieved 23 February 2011.</ref> Four months later, he was sentenced to ten years and one month in a federal prison for the cocaine trafficking conviction.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/06/23/2280320/reggae-star-buju-banton-faces.html |title=Reggae star Buju Banton gets 10 years in drug case |last=Stacy |first=Mitch |date=23 June 2011 |work=Miami Herald |access-date=29 June 2011}}</ref> His sentencing on a related firearms conviction (despite the fact that Banton was never found with a gun) was scheduled for 30 October 2012, and then postponed on his lawyer's request for an investigation of possible juror misconduct.<ref>{{cite web |last=Henry|first=Paul|title=Buju sentencing postponed|url=http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Buju-sentencing-postponed|work=JamaicaObserver.com|access-date=11 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102073548/http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Buju-sentencing-postponed|archive-date=2 November 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> Despite the fact that a juror was found guilty of misconduct,<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.fox13news.com/news/local-news/buju-banton-juror-guilty-of-misconduct|title=Buju Banton juror guilty of misconduct|last=FOX|work=FOX13news|access-date=9 July 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> Banton waived his right to an appeal. On 14 May 2015, federal prosecutors agreed to drop the firearms charge.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Prosecutors-drop-firearms-charge-against-Buju-Banton |title=Prosecutors Drop Firearms Charges Against Buju Banton |date=14 May 2015 |work=Jamaica Observer |access-date=15 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150517231924/http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Prosecutors-drop-firearms-charge-against-Buju-Banton |archive-date=17 May 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
On 13 February 2011, one day before the scheduled start of his second court trial in [[Tampa, Florida]], Buju Banton's ''Before the Dawn'' album was announced as the winner of Best Reggae Album at the [[2011 Grammy Awards|53rd annual Grammy Awards]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Buju-to-be-re-indicted-before-grand-jury |title=Buju to be re-indicted before grand jury – News |publisher=JamaicaObserver.com |date=29 September 2010 |accessdate=19 February 2013 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110628183549/http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Buju-to-be-re-indicted-before-grand-jury |archivedate=28 June 2011}}</ref>
 
Banton was released on 7 December 2018 from [[McRae Correctional Institution]].<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.tampabay.com/breaking-news/reggae-star-buju-banton-convicted-in-tampa-freed-from-prison-20181207/|title=Convicted in Tampa, Reggae star Buju Banton freed from prison|newspaper=[[Tampa Bay Times]]}}</ref>
Upon his release from prison in the United States in December 2018, Banton started The Long Walk To Freedom tour and performed his first concert at [[Independence Park (Jamaica)|National Stadium]] in [[Kingston, Jamaica]] on 16 March 2019, the concert attracted over 30.000 people.<ref name="billboard" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://jamaicans.com/buju-banton-enters-into-partnership-with-jay-zs-firm-roc-nation/|title=Buju Banton Enters into Partnership with Jay-Z‘s Firm Roc Nation|last=Writer|first=Staff|date=12 December 2019|website=Jamaicans.com|language=en-US|access-date=13 December 2019}}</ref> During his tour, he continued putting out new music and new singles including ''Bagga Mouth'', ''False Pretense'', and ''Country for Sale''.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/buju-banton-roc-nation-steppa-video-915302/|title=Buju Banton Unveils 'Steppa' Video Alongside New Roc Nation Partnership|last=Leight|first=Elias|last2=Leight|first2=Elias|date=22 November 2019|website=Rolling Stone|language=en-US|access-date=13 December 2019}}</ref>
 
OnUpon 10his Mayrelease 2019,from Bantonprison released ''Country For Sale'',in the songUnited toppedStates thein iTunesDecember Reggae2018, ChartBanton withinstarted minutesThe afterLong theWalk announcementto ofFreedom itstour release.and Theperformed songhis wasfirst recordedconcert at the[[Independence GargamelPark Music(Jamaica)|National Studio,Stadium]] Donovanin Germain'sKingston, ownJamaica recordingin studioMarch in2019; the Corporateconcert Area.attracted Accordingover to30,000 Donovan Germain,people.<ref name="billboard"since the artiste's release, there have been a number of requests for collaborations with other local and international acts"./><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.jamaicaobserverjamaicans.com/entertainment/buju-albumbanton-enters-into-partnership-with-jay-coming_164564?profile=1606zs-firm-roc-nation/|title=JamaicaBuju ObserverBanton Enters into Partnership with Jay-Z's Firm Roc LimitedNation|websiteauthor=Jamaica<!--Staff Observerwriter(s); no by-line.-->|date=12 December 2019|website=Jamaicans.com|language=en-US|access-date=13 December 2019}}</ref> OnDuring 12 November of the samehis yeartour, he releasedcontinued hisputting firstout officialnew music video entitled “Trust”. The video marked the first anniversary of Banton's release from prison and wasnew producedsingles inincluding collaboration"Bagga withMouth", [[Dave"False Kelly (producer)|Dave Kelly]]Pretense", and directed"Country byfor Kieran Khan. The track peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Reggae Digital Song Sales chartSale".<ref name=":0">{{Cite webmagazine|url=https://www.dancehallmagrollingstone.com/2019/12/06music/music-news/buju-banton-dropsroc-officialnation-steppa-video-for-trust.html915302/|title=Buju Banton DropsUnveils Official'Steppa' Video ForAlongside "Trust"New Roc Nation Partnership|last=Leight|first=Elias|date=622 DecemberNovember 2019|websitemagazine=DancehallMagRolling Stone|language=en-US|access-date=13 December 2019}}</ref>
 
OnIn 22 NovemberMay 2019, Banton announcedreleased his"Country partnershipfor Jay-Z'sSale"; Rocthe Nationsong to becometopped the secondiTunes JamaicanReggae reggaeChart artistwithin tominutes representafter Rocthe Nation,<ref>{{Citeannouncement of web|url=https://hiphopdxits release.com/news/id.53569/title.reggae-legend-buju-banton-partners-with-jay-zs-roc-nation|title=Reggae LegendThe Bujusong Bantonwas Partnersrecorded Withat JAY-Zthe Gargamel Music Studio, Donovan Germain's Rocown Nation|last=https://hiphopdx.com|first=HipHopDX-|date=23recording Novemberstudio 2019|website=HipHopDX|access-date=13in Decemberthe 2019}}</ref>Corporate whichArea. coincidedOn with12 November of the releasesame ofyear, he released his first official music video ''Steppa''entitled “Trust”. HeThe alsovideo announcedmarked thatthe Islandfirst Recordsanniversary willof beBanton's therelease distributorfrom ofprison Bantonand was produced in collaboration with [[Dave Kelly (producer)|Dave Kelly]] and Rocdirected Nation'sby newKieran musicKhan.<ref name=":0"The track peaked at number one on />the ''Billboard'' Reggae Digital Song Sales chart.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.vibedancehallmag.com/2019/1112/06/music/buju-banton-partnersdrops-withofficial-rocvideo-nationfor-releases-steppa-videotrust.html|title=Buju Banton PartnersDrops WithOfficial RocVideo Nation,For Releases 'Steppa' Video"Trust"|date=226 NovemberDecember 2019|website=VibeDancehallMag|language=en-US|access-date=13 December 2019}}</ref>
 
Banton announced his partnership with [[Jay-Z]]'s [[Roc Nation]] in November of that year, becoming the second Jamaican reggae artist be represented by the agency, which coincided with the release of his music video "Steppa". He also announced that [[Island Records]] will be the distributor of the collaboration's new music.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.53569/title.reggae-legend-buju-banton-partners-with-jay-zs-roc-nation|title=Reggae Legend Buju Banton Partners With JAY-Z's Roc Nation|date=23 November 2019|website=HipHopDX|access-date=13 December 2019}}</ref><ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.vibe.com/2019/11/buju-banton-partners-with-roc-nation-releases-steppa-video|title=Buju Banton Partners With Roc Nation, Releases 'Steppa' Video|date=22 November 2019|website=Vibe|language=en|access-date=13 December 2019}}</ref>
 
===2020s===
In January 2020, Banton was featured on the [[Bad Boys for Life (soundtrack)|''Bad Boys for Life'' soundtrack]], which was produced by [[DJ Khaled]]. His song titled "Murda She Wrote" was a nod to the 1992 dancehall classic "[[Murder She Wrote (song)|Murder She Wrote]]" by Jamaican reggae duo [[Chaka Demus & Pliers]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dancehallmag.com/2020/01/17/music/buju-banton-releases-murda-she-wrote-featured-on-bad-boys-for-life-soundtrack.html|title=Buju Banton Releases 'Murda She Wrote' Featured On 'Bad Boys For Life' Soundtrack|date=17 January 2020|website=DancehallMag|language=en-US|access-date=18 February 2020}}</ref>
 
On 29 February 2020, Banton produced the "Steppaz Riddim" under this own Gargamel Music label. The [[riddim]], released under [[Roc Nation]], featured 11 tracks and included contributions from Vershon, [[Delly Ranx]], [[Assassin (deejay)|Agent Sasco]], Bling Dawg and General B.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dancehallmag.com/2020/02/29/music/buju-bantons-releases-new-steppaz-riddim.html|title=Buju Banton Releases New 'Steppaz' Riddim|date=29 February 2020|website=DancehallMag|language=en-US|access-date=1 March 2020}}</ref> Banton released his 13th studio album and his first in a decade, ''[[Upside Down 2020]]'' on 26 June 2020. The album includes guest appearances from [[John Legend]], [[Pharrell Williams|Pharrell]], [[Stefflon Don]] and [[Stephen Marley (musician)|Stephen Marley]].<ref>{{cite magazine |last=Kreps |first=Daniel |title=Buju Banton Readies New Album 'Upside Down 2020', First LP in 10 Years |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/buju-banton-new-album-upside-down-2020-1014233/ |magazine=Rolling Stone |access-date=17 June 2020 |date=12 June 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-06-26|title=Buju Banton's New Album 'Upside Down 2020' Is Out Now|url=https://www.dancehallmag.com/2020/06/26/music/buju-bantons-new-album-upside-down-2020-is-out-now.html|access-date=2020-06-26|website=DancehallMag|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=1 May 2020|title=Buju Banton Teases His New Album 'Upside Down 2020'|url=https://www.dancehallmag.com/2020/05/01/news/buju-banton-teases-his-new-album-upside-down-2020.html|access-date=2 May 2020|website=DancehallMag|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=1 May 2020|title=UPSIDE DOWN 2020|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k69P9Ol7Duo&feature=emb_title |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/k69P9Ol7Duo| archive-date=2021-12-11 |url-status=live|access-date=2 May 2020|website=[[YouTube]]|language=en-US}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Banton appeared on the track "Believe What I Say" by [[Kanye West]], off his 2021 album ''[[Donda (album)|Donda]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-08-30|title=Buju Banton Is On Kanye West's Album After All|url=https://www.dancehallmag.com/2021/08/29/music/buju-banton-is-on-kanye-wests-album-after-all.html|access-date=2021-09-05|website=DancehallMag|language=en-US}}</ref>
In January 2020, Buju was featured on the [[Bad Boys for Life (soundtrack)]] which was produced by [[DJ Khaled]]. His song titled 'Murda She Wrote' was a nod to a 1992 dancehall classic called '[[Murder She Wrote (song)|Murder She Wrote]]' by Jamaican reggae duo [[Chaka Demus & Pliers]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dancehallmag.com/2020/01/17/music/buju-banton-releases-murda-she-wrote-featured-on-bad-boys-for-life-soundtrack.html|title=Buju Banton Releases ‘Murda She Wrote’ Featured On ‘Bad Boys For Life’ Soundtrack|date=17 January 2020|website=DancehallMag|language=en-US|access-date=18 February 2020}}</ref>
 
In 2021, Banton began a project releasing [[NFT]]'s. "Banton has teamed up with CrimsonTide Ltd. to create a collection of original [[NFT]] art pieces that will come in digital and autographed canvas pieces".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dancehallmag.com/2021/11/25/news/buju-banton-enters-nft-space-with-pure-love.html|title=Buju Banton Enters NFT Space With "Pure Love"|date=2021-11-25|website=DancehallMag|access-date=2022-11-28|language=en-US}}</ref> Banton became one of the first Jamaican artists to release an NFT. He also appeared on [[DJ Khaled]]'s album ''[[Khaled Khaled]]''. He appeared on the track "WHERE YOU COME FROM" along with [[Capleton]] and [[Bounty Killer]].{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}
==Controversies==
===Homophobia===
Banton has been criticised for the lyrical content of his song "Boom Bye Bye", which was released when he was 19 years old in 1992. The song has been interpreted as supporting the murder of gay men<ref>{{cite web|last=Nelson |first=Leah |url=http://www.splcenter.org/get-informed/intelligence-report/browse-all-issues/2010/winter/harmonies-of-hate |title=Jamaica's Anti-Gay 'Murder Music' Carries Violent Message &#124; Southern Poverty Law Center |publisher=Splcenter.org |date= |accessdate=19 February 2013}}</ref> although others have argued that the song's lyrics should be read as metaphorical, following in a long tradition of exaggerated rhetorical violence in Jamaican dancehall music. In 2009 gay-rights groups appealed to venues around the United States not to host Buju Banton.<ref>GLN MURDER MUSIC NEWS [http://www.gayliberation.net/murdermusic/2009/0830bujubantontour.html "Buju Banton's 2009 U.S.A. tour: Canceled Shows & Current Bookings"]</ref>
 
In 2022, Banton was featured on [[DJ Khaled]]'s album ''[[God Did]]''. He appeared on the track "These Streets Know My Name" along with Skilliberg, [[Capleton]], [[Bounty Killer]], and [[Sizzla]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://genius.com/Dj-khaled-these-streets-know-my-name-lyrics | title=DJ Khaled (Ft. Bounty Killer, Buju Banton, Capleton, Sizzla & Skillibeng) – THESE STREETS KNOW MY NAME }}</ref>
In 2007 Banton was allegedly among a number of reggae artists who signed a pledge, called the Reggae Compassionate Act, created by the [[Stop Murder Music]] campaign, to refrain from performing [[homophobic]] songs or making homophobic statements.<ref>Topping, Alexandra. [http://music.guardian.co.uk/news/story/0,,2132464,00.html#article_continue "Victory for gay rights campaign as reggae star agrees to ditch homophobic lyrics"], ''The Guardian'', 23 July 2007.</ref> The Act stated that the signers "do not encourage nor minister to HATE but rather uphold a philosophy of LOVE, RESPECT, and UNDERSTANDING towards all human beings as the cornerstone of reggae music" and promised that the artists involved no longer believed in sexism, homophobia, or violence and that they would not perform music that went against these beliefs on stage.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.soulrebels.org/dancehall/w_compassionate_001.htm|title=The Reggae Compassionate Act|website=Soulrebels.org|access-date=16 September 2019}}</ref> Banton later denied that he had made any such commitment, although he did refrain from performing "Boom Bye Bye" and other offensive songs at the 2007 Reggae Carifest concert.<ref>[http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-9251.html "Immigration minister criticised for letting homophobic artist into Canada"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110102014318/http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-9251.html/ |date=2 January 2011 }}, [[Pink News]], 9 October 2008.</ref>
 
==Anti-gay lyrics==
On 20 March 2019, Buju Banton and his team officially removed "Boom Bye Bye" from his catalog. Banton's team pulled the song from streaming platforms such as Apple Music and Spotify, and Banton announced his intention to never perform the song again.<ref>[https://urbanislandz.com/2019/03/20/buju-banton-permanently-ban-boom-bye-bye/ "Buju Banton Permanently Ban 'Boom Bye Bye' From His Catalog"], UrbanIslandz.com, 20 March 2019.</ref> Banton issued a statement in which he clarified the importance of tolerance and love, saying, "In recent days there has been a great deal of press coverage about the song ‘Boom Bye Bye’ from my past which I long ago stopped performing and removed from any platform that I control or have influence over. I recognize that the song has caused much pain to listeners, as well as to my fans, my family and myself. After all the adversity we’ve been through I am determined to put this song in the past and continue moving forward as an artist and as a man. I affirm once and for all that everyone has the right to live as they so choose. In the words of the great Dennis Brown, ‘Love and hate can never be friends.’ I welcome everyone to my shows in a spirit of peace and love. Please come join me in that same spirit."<ref>[https://genius.com/a/buju-banton-has-permanently-removed-the-infamously-homophobic-boom-bye-bye-from-his-catalog "Buju Banton Has Permanently Removed The Infamously Homophobic 'Boom Bye Bye' From His Catalog"], [[Genius (website)|Genius]], 22 March 2019.</ref>
{{See also|LGBT rights in Jamaica}}
His song "Boom Bye Bye", which was originally recorded when he was 15 years old and later re-released in 1992 at the age of 19 contains lyrics depicting the murder of [[gay men]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Nelson |first=Leah |url=http://www.splcenter.org/get-informed/intelligence-report/browse-all-issues/2010/winter/harmonies-of-hate |title=Jamaica's Anti-Gay 'Murder Music' Carries Violent Message &#124; Southern Poverty Law Center |publisher=Splcenter.org |access-date=19 February 2013}}</ref> After the re-release in 1992, Banton issued a public apology after receiving public backlash internationally.<ref name="Thompson"/> In 2009, gay-rights groups appealed to venues around the United States not to host Buju Banton.<ref>GLN MURDER MUSIC NEWS [http://www.gayliberation.net/murdermusic/2009/0830bujubantontour.html "Buju Banton's 2009 U.S.A. tour: Canceled Shows & Current Bookings"]</ref>
 
In 2007, Banton was allegedly among a number of reggae artists who signed a pledge, called the Reggae Compassionate Act, created by the [[Stop Murder Music]] campaign, to refrain from performing homophobic songs or making homophobic statements.<ref>Topping, Alexandra. [http://music.guardian.co.uk/news/story/0,,2132464,00.html#article_continue "Victory for gay rights campaign as reggae star agrees to ditch homophobic lyrics"], ''The Guardian'', 23 July 2007.</ref> The Act stated that the signers "do not encourage nor minister to HATE but rather uphold a philosophy of LOVE, RESPECT, and UNDERSTANDING towards all human beings as the cornerstone of reggae music" and promised that the artists involved no longer believed in sexism, homophobia, or violence and that they would not perform music that went against these beliefs on stage.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.soulrebels.org/dancehall/w_compassionate_001.htm|title=The Reggae Compassionate Act|website=Soulrebels.org|access-date=16 September 2019|archive-date=22 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190622140502/http://www.soulrebels.org/dancehall/w_compassionate_001.htm|url-status=dead}}</ref> Banton later denied that he had made any such commitment, although he did refrain from performing "Boom Bye Bye" and other offensive songs at the 2007 Reggae Carifest concert.<ref>[http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-9251.html "Immigration minister criticised for letting homophobic artist into Canada"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110102014318/http://www.pinknews.co.uk/news/articles/2005-9251.html/ |date=2 January 2011 }}, [[Pink News]], 9 October 2008.</ref>
===U.S. drug charges===
[[File:Buju Banton mug shot.jpg|thumb|right|125px|Mug shot of Banton taken shortly after his arrest.]]
In December 2009 [[Drug Enforcement Administration]] agents remanded Banton to custody in Miami, where the U.S. Attorney charged him with conspiracy to distribute and possession of more than five kilograms of [[cocaine]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-5978338-504083.html |title=Reggae Star Buju Banton Arrested for 5-Kilo Cocaine Buy, Say Feds |author=Katz, Neil |date=14 December 2009 |work=CBSNews.com |publisher= |accessdate=9 July 2011}}</ref> Banton was then moved to the [[Pinellas County Sheriff's Office|Pinellas County Jail]] where he remained until trial.
A six-day trial in [[Tampa, Florida]] was declared a mistrial on 27 September 2010, after the jury was unable to reach a unanimous decision.<ref name=Hutcheson>{{cite web |url=http://www.tampabay.com/news/courts/article1124448.ece |title=Mistrial declared in drug conspiracy case against reggae star Buju Banton |author=Hutcheson, Nicole |date=28 September 2010 |work=St. Petersburg Times |publisher=TampaBay.com |accessdate=9 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101001193544/http://www.tampabay.com/news/courts/article1124448.ece |archive-date=1 October 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> During the trial, audio recordings were presented of Banton and a drug-dealer-turned-[[informant|government-informant]] discussing drugs, drug prices and smuggling. Banton was also seen on a video recording meeting the informant in a police-controlled warehouse tasting cocaine from a kilogram bag.<ref name=Hutcheson /> The informant was reportedly paid $50,000 for his work on the case.<ref name=Hutcheson />
The singer was released that November on bond.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.jamaicanewsbulletin.com/arts-a-living-mainmenu-78/62-entertainment/2664-buju-banton-released-from-jail.html/ |title=Archived copy |access-date=22 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924145150/http://www.jamaicanewsbulletin.com/arts-a-living-mainmenu-78/62-entertainment/2664-buju-banton-released-from-jail.html/ |archive-date=24 September 2018 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
 
On 20 March 2019, Banton and his team officially removed "Boom Bye Bye" from his catalog. Banton's team pulled the song from streaming platforms such as Apple Music and Spotify, and Banton announced his intention to never perform the song again.<ref>[https://urbanislandz.com/2019/03/20/buju-banton-permanently-ban-boom-bye-bye/ "Buju Banton Permanently Ban 'Boom Bye Bye' From His Catalog"], UrbanIslandz.com, 20 March 2019.</ref> Banton issued a statement in which he clarified the importance of tolerance and love, saying, "In recent days there has been a great deal of press coverage about the song ‘Boom Bye Bye’ from my past which I long ago stopped performing and removed from any platform that I control or have influence over. I recognize that the song has caused much pain to listeners, as well as to my fans, my family and myself. After all the adversity we've been through I am determined to put this song in the past and continue moving forward as an artist and as a man. I affirm once and for all that everyone has the right to live as they so choose. In the words of the great Dennis Brown, 'Love and hate can never be friends.' I welcome everyone to my shows in a spirit of peace and love. Please come join me in that same spirit."<ref>[https://genius.com/a/buju-banton-has-permanently-removed-the-infamously-homophobic-boom-bye-bye-from-his-catalog "Buju Banton Has Permanently Removed The Infamously Homophobic 'Boom Bye Bye' From His Catalog"], [[Genius (website)|Genius]], 22 March 2019.</ref>
He was allowed to perform one concert between trials, which was held on 16 January 2011 to a sold-out crowd in Miami.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/crossfade/2011/01/last_night_buju_banton_and_fri.php |title=Buju Banton and Friends Concert at Bayfront Park Amphitheather, January 16 |author=Park, Esther |date=17 January 2011 |work=Miami New Times |accessdate=9 July 2011}}</ref> A few weeks after the performance he won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://bujubanton.com/biography/|title=Biography - Buju Banton|date=7 May 2018|work=Buju Banton|access-date=9 July 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> but was not allowed to attend the ceremony.
 
On 22 February 2011, Banton was found guilty of [[Conspiracy (criminal)|conspiracy]] to possess with intent to distribute five or more kilograms of cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offense and using communication wires to facilitate a drug-trafficking offense. He was found not guilty on the charge of attempted possession of five kilograms or more of cocaine.<ref name=guilty>Luton, Daraine. [http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110223/lead/lead1.html Destiny – Buju Banton found guilty – Sentencing date to be determined]. ''Jamaica Gleaner''. Retrieved 23 February 2011.</ref> Four months later, he was sentenced to ten years and one month in a federal prison for the cocaine trafficking conviction.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/06/23/2280320/reggae-star-buju-banton-faces.html |title=Reggae star Buju Banton gets 10 years in drug case |last=Stacy |first=Mitch |date=23 June 2011 |work=Miami Herald |publisher= |accessdate=29 June 2011}}</ref> His sentencing on a related firearms conviction (despite the fact that Banton was never found with a gun) was scheduled for 30 October 2012, and then postponed on his lawyer's request for an investigation of possible juror misconduct.<ref>{{cite web|last=Henry|first=Paul|title=Buju sentencing postponed|url=http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Buju-sentencing-postponed|work=JamaicaObserver.com|accessdate=11 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102073548/http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Buju-sentencing-postponed|archive-date=2 November 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> Despite the fact that a juror was found guilty of misconduct,<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.fox13news.com/news/local-news/buju-banton-juror-guilty-of-misconduct|title=Buju Banton juror guilty of misconduct|last=FOX|work=FOX13news|access-date=9 July 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> Buju Banton waived his right to an appeal. On 14 May 2015 federal prosecutors agreed to drop the firearms charge.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Prosecutors-drop-firearms-charge-against-Buju-Banton |title=Prosecutors Drop Firearms Charges Against Buju Banton |date=14 May 2015 |work=Jamaica Observer |accessdate=15 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150517231924/http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/latestnews/Prosecutors-drop-firearms-charge-against-Buju-Banton |archive-date=17 May 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
 
Banton was released on 7 December 2018 from [[McRae Correctional Institution]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://tampabay.com/breaking-news/reggae-star-buju-banton-convicted-in-tampa-freed-from-prison-20181207/|title=Convicted in Tampa, Reggae star Buju Banton freed from prison|newspaper=[[Tampa Bay Times]]}}</ref>
 
==Discography==
{{Main|Buju Banton discography}}
* 1992: ''[[Stamina Daddy]]'' (1992) – later repackaged as ''Quick'')
* 1992: ''[[Mr. Mention]]'' (1992)
* 1993: ''[[Voice of Jamaica]]'' (1993)
* 1995: ''[['Til Shiloh]]'' (1995)
* 1997: ''[[Inna Heights]]'' (1997)
* 2000: ''[[Unchained Spirit]]'' (2000)
* 2003: ''[[Friends for Life (Buju Banton album)|Friends for Life]]'' (2003)
* 2006: ''[[Too Bad (album)|Too Bad]]'' (2006)
* 2009: ''[[Rasta Got Soul]]'' (2009)
* 2010: ''[[Before the Dawn (Buju Banton album)|Before the Dawn]]'' (2010)
* ''[[Upside Down 2020]]'' (2020)
* ''[[Born for Greatness (album)|Born for Greatness]]'' (2023)
 
==Awards and nominations==
{{awards table}}
!{{Abbr|Ref.|References}}
|-
|align=center|[[41st Annual Grammy Awards|1998]]
|''[[Inna Heights]]''
|rowspan="6"| [[Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album]]
|{{nom}}
|rowspan="6"| <ref name="grammy">{{cite web|url=https://www.grammy.com/grammys/artists/buju-banton/1292|title=GRAMMY Award Results for Buju Banton|date=September 13, 2020|website=GRAMMY.com}}</ref>
|-
|align=center|[[46th Annual Grammy Awards|2003]]
|''[[Friends for Life (Buju Banton album)|Friends For Life]]''
|{{nom}}
|-
|align=center|[[49th Annual Grammy Awards|2006]]
|''[[Too Bad (album)|Too Bad]]''
|{{nom}}
|-
|align=center|[[52nd Annual Grammy Awards|2009]]
|''[[Rasta Got Soul]]''
|{{nom}}
|-
|align=center|[[53rd Annual Grammy Awards|2010]]
|''[[Before the Dawn (Buju Banton album)|Before The Dawn]]''
|{{won}}
|-
|align=center|[[63rd Annual Grammy Awards|2020]]
|''[[Upside Down 2020 (Buju Banton album)|Upside Down 2020]]''
|{{nom}}
{{end}}
 
==References==
{{Reflist|2}}
 
==External links==
*{{AllMusic|id=buju-banton-mn0000939187|title=Buju Banton}}
*{{BillboardURLbyName|artist=Buju Banton}}
*{{Discogs artist}}
 
{{Buju Banton}}
 
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