BUJU IS FREE!
One of reggae most’s controversial and celebrated voices returned to his home soil on Friday December 7th, 2018, to a hero’s welcome, at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston.
Fans across the world, and especially in Jamaica, have been showing the reggae legend sincere jubilation, genuine love and the utmost respect. Banton, born Mark Myrie, served close to a 10 -year sentence at the McRae Correctional Institute in Georgia for drug and conspiracy-related charges. He was released earlier than his previous 2019 date, due to good behavior.
“Judge not, before you judge yourself. Judge not, if you’re not ready for judgement.” – Bob Marley
While in incarcerated, Buju was a model resident, not only earning an early release but also earning his Master’s Degree in Music Business Management from the University of New York, on June 7, 2016. Buju is a teacher – it’s all over his music, in all of his interviews. So it’s easy to assume that he must’ve been living and teaching his Rastafarian way of life to fellow inmates.
Years ago, while pursuing higher education Banton reportedly said, “I am already going to classes. I have passed the acceptance test and I will be studying political science and economics. I hope to get a master’s by the time I am released. I can do anything I put my mind to; you know that. I have balls of steel. People who know me know that I am very determined and will achieve my goals despite hardships. I will not allow the system to conquer me.”
Buju entering the airport in Kingston. Source: IG
As much as global praise is being showered on Buju, there are always those who claim to be so insightful, so wise or just staunch in their beliefs as to why he should not be praised because he is “a convicted felon who tried to sell cocaine to his people.”
Buju was never convicted of selling drugs, and frankly I don’t even want to get into the politics of why he was sentenced and what he was charged with – I too was a disappointed and confused fan when all the drama went down. If Buju was innocent or guilty or entrapped – that time has passed. He served his time and has left that in his past and we should too.
On November 15th, before his release, Buju issued this statement via Instagram: “In light of the adversity I have encountered, I feel the need to stress that my only desire going forward is peace and love. I only want to be associated with my craft. Having survived, I want to share the good news and strength of my music. I just want to continue making music, which I’ve devoted my life to. I look forward to the opportunity to say a personal thanks to my fans and everyone who supported me.”
“I wanna be loved, not for who you think I am nor what you want me to be, could you love me for me?” – Buju Banton
What bothers me most is the high and mighty folks whose intent is to continue to smear his name and character EVEN THOUGH he has already DONE HIS TIME and PAID THE PRICE!
I’m not going to stay long on this topic but I will make my stance very clear.
Had it been you or someone you loved – who paid a lengthy and expensive due for a crime, wrongdoing or shameful act; after serving your time, paying restitution and righting your wrong, would you not want to be allowed the peace to prove you are not defined by the crime you allegedly committed?
REDEMPTION IS AVAILABLE TO ALL.
As prolific and creative a writer as he is, I am sure with his time spent in solitude, he was able to create lyrics, paragraphs and prose to inspire, motivate and empower. But like I always say, talent and character are two different things….
There are some super talented people with some nasty hearts and there are some really kind people whose talent…well…. In my opinion, Buju is one of those rare artists who not only has talent but a conscience – and that factors heavily into the character of a man. Conscience and humility.
Buju in warm embrace with his daughter, Abihail.
Above being an artist and making you feel good with his artistry, Buju is a man first; then a son, a father, a loved one and a beloved member of his community. So to the busy bodies, media and those who feel the need to debate his past – leave that man alone.
GRACE
We all make mistakes.
We have all done something that would bring us shame if people were to know. People don’t even care to ask or understand. We’ve all had some hard lessons to learn. But for most of us, the shame and price paid would never be public knowledge. Neither will they even care.
Did you learn your lesson? Are you going to repeat that mistake?
I’m sure Buju must’ve replayed those moments in his head for years.
“Be strong. Hold a firm mediation. One day tings must get better. Don’t you go down, keep your head above the water, say…one day tings must get better!” – Buju Banton
Buju didn’t commit rape or murder. Yet we have artists, celebrities and influential people guilty of egregious crimes, being celebrated every single day. Vybz Kartel…Jah Cure….R. Kelly!!!!
I never saw Buju sell cocaine but there’s video evidence of R. Kelly pissing on a teen and numerous victim accounts of his sexual, physical, psychological and predatory abuse. Just watch this video from his ex wife HERE.
Let’s not even mention the many who are statutory rapists, closeted sex traffickers, crime and drug lords, including beloved politicians, music stars, athletes and the lists goes on!
EVANGELISM
We know some people can be heartless, bitter and quite judgmental. Unfortunately, the happiness and success of others can seem like a personal grudge to them. So when we come across people like that, extend some grace to them. You never know what trauma they may have endured to forever taint their perspective on life in the most pessimistic and cynical ways.
But back to Buju, how much does someone have to continually pay for a transgression they’ve already suffered for?
If your child or your loved one experienced such disgrace and you know they are better than what they are being accused of or what they’ve done – would you shield them with your vote of confidence, consideration and compassion and hold them accountable to never make that error again?
With Buju’s experience and knowledge, he holds the wisdom and compassion to reach youth all over the world, especially those in Jamaica. As a revered voice of the people, he had to go through his own trials to be the saving grace for others. This was his Destiny. Think about that. His knowledge, his message, his heart for people and his immeasurable gifts are pillars of a solid foundation that can not be shattered. So send that man good energy so he may help liberate our youth with his words of wisdom and life experiences.
In the meantime, Buju is deservingly resting and re-acclimating with his family, his home, his friends and stirring up his musical mojo! His publicist, Ronnie Tomlinson, recently issued this statement:
View this post on Instagram
Shout out to the real Buju fans who will travel anywhere in the world to see his first or any of his upcoming performances. The Long Walk To Freedom Tour is rumored to kick off on April 21st in Trinidad.
Buju paid his price. He did his time. Let him rest.
I look forward to Buju’s victorious rebound and in the meantime I’m sending him and his family good thoughts and good energy.
Blessed love Buju.
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