Buju Banton Brings Soul To Reggae Despite Protests

Buju Banton is easily reggae's most controversial artist this decade, most of it surrounding (1st song he ever wrote?) "Boom Bye Bye" written when he was 15. The Jamaican singer has since released a bounty of albums, singles, remixes and anthologies ranging from rasta reggae to soundclash anthems, but only 1 song causes continuous trouble every time he visits the United States and England. (More info about Buju and controversy here if interested...)

I witnessed the 4x Grammy winner/dancehall sensation Buju Banton perform live last night for the 1st time and it was simply magical! He put on a soulful, heartfelt performance in Berkeley to an adoring and appreciative audience. It was clear though, that this show was pulled off in the face of many hardships and obstacles. Originally scheduled to take place at the Regency Ballroom in SF, the show lost it's venue and was changed to TBA for a few weeks. Finally, the Shattuck Down Low in Berkeley agreed to host the event (promising those opposed a space to represent) and it went off beautifully. Banton thanked his fans multiple times during his set and pointed out that the show only went on because of the reggae fans in this room who supported his music and demanded to see him live.

I thought maybe this issue was mostly limited to NYC and the Bay Area, where lgbt groups have strong communities and quite a bit of influence. But I found this article, published in today's Jamaica Observer, commenting on the complications Buju has experienced throughout this tour (+ excerpts from a concert review of his show in Philly):

"Buju Banton's Reggae Got Soul Tour Triumphs" on Jamaica Observer site

I'll follow up soon with a full review of the Berkeley show - it was *fabulous*. I finally heard some fave songs performed live & direct and was close enough to Buju to wipe the sweat from his brow (had I dared!) Opening acts included the one and only Gramps Heritage (from the Morgan Heritage family & who held my hand during 1 song!) as well as mini-solo sets by 2 of Buju's back-up singers, Nikki Burt and Angel Shalome. Pix and video to come!

Maximum Respect to the Bay Area Reggae Massive!! Big UP to Buju and Angel Magik for making it happen!

Buju, Til Shiloh Band, Gramps & fams also play in SF this Tuesday @ the RockIt Room.