Buju Banton signs to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation label

Buju Banton has become the second Jamaican artiste to represent on hip-hop business mogul Jay-Z's label Roc Nation following the 2016 signing of reggae artiste Damian 'Jr Gong' Marley. Though the terms of the deal are unknown, spectators have described it as a good look for dancehall.

The artiste has been on a long walk to reclaim his dominance on the local and international stages, and the Roc Nation opportunity comes almost one year after Buju Banton's release from United States federal prison, where he spent eight years for drug-related charges.

Extensive roster

The repertoire of artistes already on Roc Nation's extensive roster includes popular acts Bajan princess Rihanna, Megan Thee Stallion, Big Sean, J Cole, Meek Mill, and Shakira.

"It is a great thing," artiste manager Clifton 'Specialist' Dillon, who shared in the success of popular acts such as OMI and Ky-Mani Marley as well as Shabba Ranks, said about the deal.

Producer Augustus 'Gussie' Clarke said the deal will definately contribute to Buju Banton's personal advancement. He, however, said that it remains to be seen whether it "puts dancehall in better footing".

"Music is about content and if he can deliver at the standard that is previously known of dancehall, it will bring him back to the forefront but there is a difference between what is called dancehall then to now," Clarke said.

Buju's last album, Before the Dawn, won the Grammy for best reggae album in 2010.