Jamaican reggae legend Buju Banton has opened up about his cultural roots, revealing that his Maroon heritage traces back to the Igbo tribe of Nigeria. The 51-year-old artist, known for hits like “Untold Stories” and “Destiny,” shared that his ancestors, the Maroons, were fierce warriors who fought the British for 40 years to secure their sovereignty.
Banton expressed deep concern over the current threat to Maroon lands in Jamaica, alleging that the Jamaican government is allowing foreign nationals to encroach on the indigenous Cockpit region. He emphasized that this sacred land holds immense cultural and historical significance for the Maroon community.
In addition to discussing his heritage, Banton criticized the global Afrobeats movement, arguing that it lacks depth and fails to address the struggles of Africa. He accused Afrobeats stars of appropriating and disrespecting Jamaican culture, which has a long history of influencing global music.
Banton’s revelations highlight the ongoing struggles of indigenous communities in preserving their cultural identity and land rights, while also sparking a broader conversation about cultural appropriation in the music industry.