Grammy-winning reggae legend Buju Banton has unveiled his latest masterpiece, Born For Greatness. This remarkable album, released September 8 under the Gargamel Music/ Roc Nation Records / Def Jam Recordings umbrella, marks a significant moment in the artist’s illustrious career.
Banton’s legacy as one of reggae’s most influential and inimitable figures is solidified with this rich body of work. Born For Greatness showcases his uncanny ability to seamlessly blend sounds, vibes and cultures. The track “Body Touching Body” featuring Victoria Monét exemplifies this fusion as Buju’s charismatic flow harmonises with a fluid beat enriched by steel drums and wah-drenched guitar. Victoria Monét’s hypnotic R&B hook adds a layer of sensuality to the song, creating a musical experience that transcends genres.
From the introspective opener “Ageless Time” driven by acoustic guitar to the choral chant for liberation on the finale “Let My People Go,” the album flows like a cinematic epic. It explores emotional depths, only to soar to peaks of joy and victory with tracks like “We Find A Way” and “Trial By Fire.” The standout collaboration with Stephen Marley on “Feel A Way” showcases Buju’s versatility and artistry.
The title track, “Born For Greatness,” set the stage for the album’s release and received praise from The Source and Reggaeville. Buju’s wide-ranging interview with Ebro in the Morning shed light on the record’s depth and inspiration. “Born For Greatness” consists of 17 tracks, featuring an eclectic mix of solo performances and notable collaborations, as noted by DANCEHALL MAG.
Leading up to the album, Buju Banton treated fans to the catchy dancehall anthem “Coconut Wata (Sip),” which Vibe described as a track that encourages listeners to savor the moment and lay life’s troubles aside. It was the perfect prelude to the global hit “High Life” featuring Snoop Dogg, which received praise from outlets like HYPEBEAST and TMZ. REVOLT dubbed it “perfect for the stoners’ holiday,” and Rolling Stone summed it up as simply “Bumping.”
Born For Greatness follows Buju Banton’s universally acclaimed 2020 album Upside Down 2020, which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Reggae Album and garnered rave reviews from The Guardian and Rolling Stone.
