Buju Banton is once again addressing the allegations surrounding his past, firmly denying any involvement in drug trafficking. This comes fifteen years after his release from prison, where he served time for a conviction related to drug trafficking. The legendary Jamaican dancehall artist is now focusing on his upcoming “Intimate 2025” concert, set for January 4, 2025, where he will perform alongside fellow icons Beres Hammond, Marcia Griffiths, Romain Virgo, and Wayne Wonder.
At the concert’s launch event in Kingston on November 7, Buju spoke candidly about the challenges he faced following his release from prison in December 2018. Although he was welcomed back to Jamaica with open arms, Buju faced criticism from some corners of the music world due to his past conviction. The artist was quick to set the record straight, saying, “I smoke the world of marijuana, but I never sold an ounce of drugs in my life.”
Buju reflected on his time in prison, acknowledging the negative judgment he encountered from some people. “After being cast into prison for eight and a half years, I was disdained by a lot of people,” he shared. “But let me make it clear, I never sold drugs.”
Since his release, Buju has proven that his place in music is unshaken. His recent sold-out performances in Toronto and New York this summer have only solidified his standing as one of the most influential and sought-after figures in Jamaican music.
In an interview with Winford Williams of OnStage, Buju emphasized the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. “When we started out, some negative folks tried to say I bit off more than I could chew. But my energy is positive, and I’ve risen above all that,” Buju stated, reflecting on his journey.
Buju encouraged young artists to take inspiration from his career. “Every Jamaican should be proud of what we’re doing. Every young artist should take note,” he said. “If you can’t take a page, take the whole damn book, because I’ll soon close my chapter and yours will begin. And you’re going to close your chapter? Absolutely. You think I’ll be a 70-year-old man singing?”
