Buju Banton Convicted of Drug Charges; Drugs Are Destroying the Music Industry and Black Community

Buju Banton Convicted of Drug Charges; Drugs Are Destroying the Music Industry and Black Community

One week after reaching a musical zenith by winning a Grammy Award, reggae legend Buju Banton was convicted of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine. Banton claimed that he was attempting to impress Florida drug dealers when he was arrested in December of 2009.

But Banton’s fate was sealed once prosecutors showed jurors video and played audio recordings of him discussing drug transactions. There was also a video of Banton tasting the cocaine to make sure it was pure.


Banton, one of the most talented reggae artists of all time, was blessed to have a successful music career. Thousands of aspiring musicians dream to be in his position. He was a rare reggae artist who was able to gain international recognition.


Although money from drug dealing can come quickly, Banton could have performed at venues and nightclubs around the world to earn a lucrative leaving.

Drugs have been lethal to the music industry. Recently, artists such as T.I. and DMX have had their careers derailed because of drug use. Pimp C (Chad Butler) of UGK  died in 2007 after suffering sleep apnea and his continued use of syrup (codeine-based drink mixture).


Hip-hop and some reggae artists have glorified drug dealing without offering solutions to the problems that continue to destroy inner-city neighborhoods and the lives of young black men and women.

Banton faces up to 20 years in prison. –amir shaw

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