Buju Banton Joins Patoranking’s Forthcoming Album on “African Soldier”

Grammy award-winning legend and Nigerian afro-dancehall star unite on a powerful statement of African pride and Black liberation ahead of Patoranking’s fifth studio album. “Having the legendary Buju Banton on this record just complements the entire message,” he said

African pride at the fForefront of Buju Banton and Patoranking's “African Soldier”

Grammy Award-winning dancehall legend Buju Banton joins Nigerian afro-dancehall star Patoranking on the new single “African Soldier,” a roots reggae statement centered on African pride, Black liberation and the strength of the continent.

Produced by veteran Jazzwad of Jazzwad Records, whose known for his work with artistes such as Bounty Killer and Popcaan - the track was recorded with live session musicians from Jamaica, including drums, bass, keys, guitar and a full horn section, giving it the warmth and depth of classic reggae craftsmanship. Mixing duties were handled by Grammy-winning engineer Bonzai, whose credits include Mariah Carey, Nas and Chronixx.

For Patoranking, the collaboration represents a return to his musical foundations. Reggae has been a defining thread throughout his career, from his breakthrough single “Alubarika” to his recent release “No Jonze.”

“While working on my album, the goal for me was to go back to the music that inspired me, the sounds I grew up on,” he explains. “Reggae has been that core for me. Throughout my journey as an artist, reggae and dancehall blended with Afrobeats has been my primary sound. ‘African Soldier’ is that intentionally curated root reggae song that serves as a reminder of who we are and the power we possess as Africans and Black people all across the globe.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=RD32oj4CeydbY&v=32oj4CeydbY

Describing the decision to bring Buju Banton onto the record, Patoranking shared, “Having the legendary Buju Banton, who over the years has been a great voice for Africa's liberation, growth and unity on the continent, on this record just complements the entire message.”

The song will be released alongside an accompanying music video directed by UAX (Tyla, Rema, Tems). Shot in New York, the visual brings the song’s themes of unity, excellence and liberation to life. “African Soldier” serves as the second single from Patoranking’s forthcoming fifth studio album.