Buju Banton Returns to L.A. After 20 Years, Reveals “100% Dancehall” Album in the Works

Grammy-winning reggae icon Buju Banton makes history at the Hollywood Palladium, opening BET Experience Week with timeless hits and revealing a new dancehall album in the works

Buju Banton in Los Anegles (Photo: Vinny Nolan)

Grammy-winning reggae icon Buju Banton returned to Los Angeles for the first time in over 20 years, kicking off BET Experience Week ahead of Monday’s BET Awards. The veteran artist made history as the first reggae act to headline the Hollywood Palladium in California.

Opening with timeless classics like “Destiny,” “Close One Yesterday,” “Wanna Be Loved,” and “Bonafide Love (Movie Star),” Banton delivered a wave of nostalgia. He also treated fans to powerful tracks like “Untold Stories” and “23rd Psalm.”

“It feels euphoric to be back in Los Angeles,” Banton told BET backstage, reflecting on his long-awaited return to the City of Angels.

He also used the moment to speak on the state of the genre: “We need more tenacious actions to be taken on the forefront to move the music,” he urged, calling on veterans and new artists alike to protect the roots of reggae and dancehall.

In an exclusive BET interview, Banton revealed that he’s working on a new project. “The album will be 100% dancehall,” he said, describing it as both a homecoming and a gift to his fans.

With a career spanning more than three decades and following last year’s sold-out “Overcomer” U.S. tour, Buju Banton continues to break ground. He now heads to Las Vegas to perform at Planet Hollywood on Saturday, June 7.

The BET Experience Weekend continues with a star-studded lineup, including 106 & Park: Rep Ya Flag featuring dancehall heavyweights Spice and Konshens.