Buju Banton, born Mark Anthony Myrie in Kingston, Jamaica, is a reggae and dancehall artist known for his powerful voice and socially conscious lyrics. He began recording music in the late 1980s, and quickly rose to fame with hits like “Bogle” and “Man fi Dead”. His 1992 album “Mr. Mention” was a commercial success, and cemented his status as one of Jamaica’s most popular and influential artists.
Banton’s music is known for its powerful messages of social justice and cultural pride. His lyrics often address issues such as poverty, inequality, and police brutality, and he has been a vocal advocate for the legalization of marijuana. His music is also heavily influenced by his Rastafarian faith, with themes of spiritual enlightenment and the power of nature featuring prominently in his songs.
In 2010, Banton was arrested on drug charges in the United States, and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Despite this setback, he continued to record music while incarcerated, and his fans rallied around him in support. He was released in 2018, and has since resumed his career as a musician.
Banton’s impact on Jamaican music and culture cannot be overstated. He has won numerous awards throughout his career, including a Grammy for Best Reggae Album in 2011. His music continues to inspire and empower listeners around the world, and he remains a beloved figure in the reggae and dancehall communities.
1. Batty Rider
“Batty Rider” is a classic dancehall reggae track by Jamaican artist Buju Banton, released in 1992. The song features a catchy, upbeat rhythm, with Buju Banton’s distinctive vocals and fast-paced toasting creating an infectious party atmosphere. The lyrics celebrate the beauty and sensuality of women, with a particular focus on their curves and physical features. The chorus, “All pretty girls, let’s get together and wine, wine, wine,” is an invitation to dance and enjoy the moment. “Batty Rider” showcases Buju Banton’s charismatic style and his ability to create music that is both fun and uplifting, making it a beloved track among reggae fans.
2. Champion
“Champion” is a reggae classic by Jamaican artist Buju Banton. The song’s driving beat and infectious melody create a sense of excitement and celebration, while Banton’s powerful vocals deliver a message of perseverance and triumph. The lyrics are full of uplifting and motivational phrases, encouraging the listener to be strong and to never give up. The chorus is anthemic and memorable, with its catchy hook and sing-along lyrics. “Champion” is a standout track in Banton’s discography, and a testament to his ability to create powerful and inspiring reggae music that resonates with listeners around the world.
3. Who Say
“Who Say” is a powerful roots reggae track by Buju Banton, released in 1995. The song features a heavy, driving rhythm, with Buju Banton’s forceful vocals and potent lyrics conveying a sense of urgency and protest. The lyrics challenge the status quo and call for a revolution, with lines such as “Who say the struggle is not real, I know it is, I know it is.” “Who Say” showcases Buju Banton’s ability to use music as a platform for social and political commentary, making it a standout track in his extensive discography and a testament to the enduring power of roots reggae.
4. Wanna Be Loved
“Wanna Be Loved” is a soulful reggae ballad by Buju Banton that showcases the artist’s versatility and emotional depth. The song’s gentle rhythm and acoustic guitar create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, while Banton’s smooth vocals deliver a heartfelt message about the desire for love and connection. The lyrics are introspective and contemplative, exploring the complexities of relationships and the search for fulfillment. The chorus is haunting and memorable, with its poignant lyrics and soaring harmonies. “Wanna Be Loved” is a standout track in Banton’s discography, and a testament to his ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
5. A Little More Time
“A Little More Time” is a poignant ballad by Buju Banton, released in 1995. The song features a gentle, soulful melody, with Buju Banton’s emotive vocals and heartfelt lyrics expressing a sense of vulnerability and longing. The lyrics express regret over a lost love and a desire to turn back the clock, with lines such as “If I could relive those days again, I’d hold you tight and never let you go.” “A Little More Time” showcases Buju Banton’s ability to convey raw emotion through his music, making it a standout track in his discography and a beloved ballad among reggae fans.
6. Up Close and Personal
“Up Close and Personal” is a dancehall classic by Jamaican artist Buju Banton. The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy hook create a sense of excitement and energy, while Banton’s playful and flirtatious lyrics add a touch of romance and sensuality. The chorus is memorable and instantly recognizable, with its sing-along lyrics and memorable melody. “Up Close and Personal” is a standout track in Banton’s discography, and a testament to his ability to create music that is both fun and provocative. The song has become a staple of dancehall parties and clubs around the world, and remains a fan favorite to this day.
7. Only Man
“Only Man” is a classic dancehall reggae track by Buju Banton, released in 1995. The song features a catchy, upbeat rhythm, with Buju Banton’s confident toasting and smooth vocals creating an irresistible groove. The lyrics celebrate Buju Banton’s status as a ladies’ man, with lines such as “Woman a cry, say dem want a man like me, rude boy style and me smooth, you see.” “Only Man” showcases Buju Banton’s charismatic style and his ability to create music that is both fun and uplifting, making it a beloved track among reggae fans and a testament to Buju Banton’s enduring legacy as a dancehall icon.
8. Bogle Dance
“Bogle Dance” is a high-energy dancehall track by Buju Banton that pays tribute to the legendary Jamaican dancer Bogle. The song’s uptempo rhythm and catchy hook create a sense of excitement and celebration, while Banton’s lyrics encourage listeners to get up and dance. The chorus is memorable and infectious, with its playful lyrics and energetic beat. “Bogle Dance” is a standout track in Banton’s discography, and a testament to his ability to create music that is both fun and culturally relevant. The song has become a popular dancehall anthem, and continues to inspire fans around the world to move their bodies to the rhythm of the music.
9. Big It Up
“Big It Up” is a classic dancehall track by Buju Banton, released in 1992. The song features a catchy, uptempo rhythm, with Buju Banton’s commanding vocals and fast-paced toasting creating an infectious party vibe. The lyrics celebrate success and achievement, with lines such as “Big it up, me large and me in charge, yes me have nuff style and me have nuff fashion.” “Big It Up” showcases Buju Banton’s ability to create music that is both fun and empowering, making it a beloved track among reggae fans and a testament to his enduring popularity as a dancehall icon.
10. Destiny
“Destiny” is a powerful and uplifting reggae track by Buju Banton that speaks to the artist’s spiritual and philosophical beliefs. The song’s hypnotic rhythm and soaring harmonies create a sense of transcendence and enlightenment, while Banton’s lyrics reflect on the meaning of life and the search for purpose. The chorus is anthemic and memorable, with its powerful message of hope and resilience. “Destiny” is a standout track in Banton’s discography, and a testament to his ability to create music that is both spiritually and socially conscious. The song has become a fan favorite, and continues to inspire listeners to reflect on their own journey through life.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
