Reggae and Dancehall icon Buju Banton has made a grand re-entry into the United States, five years after his deportation. The Grammy-winning artist, whose real name is Mark Myrie, was deported to Jamaica following his release from prison in 2018. His return to the U.S. soil is not just a personal victory but also a momentous occasion for his fans and the music industry.

Banton’s deportation came after a ten-year sentence for drug-related charges. His absence from the U.S. was deeply felt in the music community, where he has long been revered for his contributions to Reggae and Dancehall music. His first concert post-release, “Long Walk To Freedom,” held at the National Stadium in March 2019, saw a historic turnout, signaling the unwavering support of his fans.

The artist’s return was warmly welcomed by DJ Khaled during an Instagram Live session, where Banton joined him in Miami, Florida. “This is legendary! I haven’t seen my brother, and I don’t think you have seen my brother, and it’s been about 15 years since you have seen him in Miami or what we call the United States. And I just want to say yow Buju Banton welcome back to your second home,” Khaled expressed.

Banton’s journey back to the U.S. is marked by resilience and redemption. His music, which often touches on themes of struggle and perseverance, resonates with his own life story. As he steps back onto U.S. ground, Banton carries with him not just the legacy of his past but the promise of new beginnings.

The return is also a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries. Banton’s influence on the Reggae and Dancehall scenes has been profound, and his presence back in the U.S. is expected to reignite the passion for these genres. With plans to make music during his visit, fans can eagerly anticipate fresh rhythms and beats from the Gargamel himself.

Returning is a beacon of hope for many who have faced adversity. It’s a reminder that after the darkest nights, the sun will rise again. As Banton reunites with friends and fans, the music world watches with anticipation, ready to embrace the next chapter of a legend’s journey.

Banton’s career is filled with memorable moments that have cemented his status as a legend in the reggae and dancehall music scene. Early hits like “Bogle,” “Batty Rider,” “Big It Up,” and “Champion” set him apart in the dancehall scene with their ferocious vocals and vibrant energy.

His first album for a major US label, “Voice of Jamaica,” was released in August 1993, showcasing his versatility and appeal beyond the Caribbean. The 1995 album ‘Til Shiloh is one of reggae/dancehall’s most celebrated and influential releases, marking a shift to more serious themes and the Rastafari way of life. In a testament to his popularity, Buju performed at Jamaica’s Reggae Sunsplash in 1993, and even the Prime Minister at the time, PJ Patterson, expressed a desire to see him live. He won a Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album with “Before the Dawn” in 2011, highlighting his international recognition and success.

His return to the stage with the “Long Walk To Freedom” concert in 2019 at the National Stadium in Jamaica was a historic event, drawing a massive turnout and signaling his enduring legacy. These moments reflect not only the peaks of his musical journey but also the profound impact he has had on his fans and the music industry at large. His career is a story of resilience, redemption, and the unifying power of music.

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