Buju Banton New Album “Upside Down 2020” Out Now!

Buju Banton has released his thirteenth studio album, his first since his return to Jamaica.

Featuring appearances from Pharrell, Stefflon Don, Stephen Marley, and John Legend, Upside Down 2020 is his first project since his release from prison in 2018. Featuring the previously released singles “Steppa,” “Memories,” and “Trust,” the record sees Banton in top form as though he never left. Blending sounds both modern and throwback, it’s a refreshing reintroduction to an artist who has undoubtedly influenced countless musicians during his career.

When Buju announced the album, he explained the relevance to these trying times in a lengthy statement.

“As we approach this shift in time, in ages, in the consciousness of man, many things can be said, but who is really listening?” Buju wrote.

“So much trouble in our world, yet are we aware? The battle lines have been drawn and it’s simple. Good vs. evil. I am not here to tell you the side you should be on, rather my offering of music is meant to inspire, uplift, educate and eradicate negativity from the minds of the masses.”

Born Mark Anthony Myrie, Banton, 47, has seen his career spike and spiral through the years. In February 2011 he won his first Grammy for Best Reggae Album, Before the Dawn—but one day later, his trial began.

View this post on Instagram

As we approach this shift in time, in ages, in the consciousness of man, many things can be said but who is really listening? So much trouble in our world, yet are we aware? The battle lines have been drawn and it’s simple. Good vs. evil. I am not here to tell you the side you should be on, rather my offering of music is meant to guide, inspire, uplift, educate and eradicate negativity from the minds of the masses. We, who have been the political football of many, the economic underdog nations, say no! No more to this upside down system. This one sided view of justice and all the other issues affecting us as a people. While I seek to highlight the systemic problems around the world, I am aware of the need of preserving dancehall culture along with the real essence that reggae music offers but these are not normal times so things cannot continue as normal. We are the change we seek and it’s our time to cement this thought in the minds of our youth. To open their eyes, thus enabling future generations to continue on a firm path and solid foundation with music doing it’s job as the great healer, teacher, comforter and above all, the restorative force that propels human beings to higher heights. My gift from Jah to you. Let’s get this UPSIDE DOWN 2020 world right side up. – BB June 26th album available everywhere Pre-order available this Friday #upsidedown2020

A post shared by Buju Banton (@bujubanton) on Jun 10, 2020 at 10:40am PDT

Here’s the Upside Down 2020 Track List

1. Lamb Of God
2. Yes Mi Friend – feat. Stephen Marley
3. Buried Alive
4. Blessed
5. Memories – feat. John Legend
6. Lovely State Of Mind
7. Appreciated
8. Trust
9. Cherry Pie – feat. Pharrell Williams
10. Beat The Bath
11. Good time girl
12. Call Me – feat. Stefflon Don
13. Moonlight Love
14. Cheated
15. Steppa
16. The World Is Changing
17. 400 Years
18. Rising Up
19. Helping hand
20. Unity

Stream the Upside Down 2020 Album from the reggae connoisseur Buju Banton below: