Buju Banton Returns to L.A. After 20 Years—And He’s Still Got That Rebel Spirit

Reggae legend Buju Banton returned to Los Angeles after two decades, electrifying the BET Experience 2025 with a performance that celebrated his legacy and reaffirmed his rebel spirit. The Grammy-winning artist opened with hits like “Wanna Be Loved” and “Bonafide Love,” backed by a live band. The concert also turned introspective when Banton performed “Untold Stories,” reflecting on his youth and the genre’s deeper roots. In an interview with BET, he stressed that reggae’s original purpose—as music of liberation and social justice—is being diluted in modern pop culture. Banton announced that his next album would return to pure dancehall, aiming to reconnect the genre with its foundational message. His powerful stage presence and message of authenticity reminded audiences of reggae’s enduring relevance and the necessity to preserve its soul.

Source: BET

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