On the heels of Buju Banton’s Long Walk To Freedom New York concert at UBS Arena July 13th, Buju has released a new single and video, “This Is Jamaica.” Buju was granted a Visa recently by the U.S. (I was surprised at this but so happy) and shortly after he announced his first U.S. concert since his January 16th, 2011 ‘Before The Dawn’ concert in Miami. So popular, they added a second date on Sunday the 14th because tickets sold so quickly for the Saturday show. This shows how much people love and miss Buju. Over his 30-year career, Buju, whose real name is Mark Myrie, has released 12 studio albums, most of them featuring recurring topics such as consciousness, justice, freedom, and love. And his new release is no different. I love this song! This could be the anthem for Jamaica for the summer. Great beat and rhythm along with Buju’s solid lyrics and vocals. The video, directed by Colormesstadic and produced by Kemar McGregor, starts with Buju in his car driving through Kingston with sights and views of everyday Jamaica life. We see a Bob Marley One Love poster, Usain Bolt statue, a painting of Haile Selassie, Devon House (where I had the best Jamaican Patties I have ever had and some amazing ice cream) and the Redemption Song statue.
While the video may not seem to be very intricate, I think this is a perfect song and video for Buju and Jamaica. After sending so many years in jail and away from his Jamaica, this is very meaningful to him and for him. To be free and enjoying everything that Jamaica is and has to offer. The video ends with a Bob Marley painting and quote that is so fitting, “None but ourselves can free our minds.” A quote I am sure Buju lives by, as do I. They also released a “This Is Jamaica” official dance video, some sweet dance moves, this will become a popular dance in clubs in Jamaica and worldwide. Another amazing song by Buju, looking forward to seeing if this means another album is in the works. His last album, Born For Greatness, was absolutely fantastic and cannot wait for more music from Buju. Just waiting for news of more tour dates!
One Love – Todd Judd
