1990s Reggae Music: Buju Banton's 'Til Shiloh Album

Buju Banton is a talented reggae and dancehall music artist. His 'Til Shiloh album was released in 1995 with "Murderer" and "Wanna Be Loved."

Buju Banton, born Mark Myrie in Jamaica, is a popular reggae artist who has released several powerful albums including Inna Heights, Voice of Jamaica and 'Til Shiloh. Banton, although extremely talented, is no stranger to controversy. However his musical abilities are still well respected and appreciated worldwide. The Grammy-nominated Banton first came on the reggae music scene in the early 1990s and was subsequently able to garner an international following.

Buju Banton is no Stranger to Controversy

Buju Banton sang "Boom Bye Bye" in 1992 with lyrical content that is described as anti-homosexual. This song cost Banton concert appearances in the United States and the United Kingdom. On January 8, 2010, Buju Banton was arrested in December for allegedly buying cocaine from an undercover officer. In September 2010, Banton's case was declared a mistrial and was then re-filed. Later in November 2010, Banton was released on bail in the same matter with a new case date for February 2011.

Buju Banton's Musical Legacy

After his debut in the 1990s, Banton subsequently released his first album Mr. Mention in 1992. Mr. Mention featured songs that eclipsed the dancehall era - "Batty Rider" and "Dickie". The follow-up album was Voice of Jamaica in 1993. Voice of Jamaica is appropriately titled because this album literally pushed Banton to international stardom. Songs off the album included "Willy Don't Be Silly" promoting HIV/AIDS prevention and "Deportees (Things Change)." The music video for the song "Make My Day" from the same album played on BET.

'Til Shiloh came in 1995 and Inna Heights was released in 1997.  Banton then released other popular albums like Unchained Spirit in 2000 and Rasta Got Soul in 2009. His most recent release is Before the Dawn in 2010. In addition to his personal albums, through his label, Gargamel Music Inc., Banton released the 100 Watt Riddim music video featuring Ghost, East Coast, Mr. Vegas, New Kidz, Assassin, Mitch and Mr. Lex. The songs of the riddim were released on the album Excalibur Sound 1: 100 Watt in 2006.

The Songs of'Til Shiloh

Buju Banton is definitely a solid lyricist and the 'Til Shiloh album shows his talent. "Murderer," "Untold Stories," and "Not An Easy Road" brought about Banton's socially conscious reggae side. His dancehall side came out in "Champion," "It's All Over" and "Complaint" featuring Garnett Silk, now deceased. "Champion" appears a second time remixed with a sample from "You Know How We Do It" which was written by Ice Cube, QDill, T.Life and D. Wansel. 'Til Shiloh also features love songs like "Wanna Be Loved" and "Only Man."

• "Murderer" To Face Judgment: "Murderer! Blood is on your shoulders / kill I today you cannot kill I tomorrow" start off "Murderer." This song speaks against violence and reminds persons who commit such acts that they will meet their judgment. Banton hits his theme hard in the third verse with the words "Drinking sulphur bitters won't be bitter like your end / only God can help you, no family or friend." Banton and Clement Dodd penned the lyrics and included biblical references such as Noah's children, Daniel and the first verse of Psalms 121.
• "Not An Easy Road" is an Inspiring Reggae Song: Banton wrote this song as a testament to perseverance and faith. His edgy lyrics include "Upon my face I've got to put on a smile / Make up my mind just to walk more miles." The chorus sings "It's not an easy road / many see the glamor an the glitter / and think it's a bed of rose."
• "Chuck It So" is a Serious Song: In "Chuck It So," Buju Banton reminds the 'bullies' and criminals to be mindful of the wicked actions. A steady dancehall beat with piercing lyrics chanted in Banton gruff voice make this song chilling. The hook is "How you a go on like bully so / on the border line you not going."
• 'Til Shiloh's Love Anthem is "Wanna Be Loved": Marcia Griffiths sings background vocals on Buju Banton's "Wanna Be Loved." In this song, Banton expresses his need for love. He sings "been searching for a long long time / for that oh so true love" and "show me you care, up front and boldly." Banton gets metaphorical with the lyrics and sings "I'm like waiting on some honey / but there aint no queen bee."

Buju Banton, a superbly talented Jamaican artist, has released almost one dozen reggae albums. One of his albums in which has a dancehall and reggae appeal is 'Til Shiloh. Songs like "Murderer" and "Champion" make this a great reggae and dancehall album.