Gargamel Declares “Love and Hate can never Be friends,” Removes Decades-Old Song From Streaming Platforms
Even before Buju Banton’s return home to Jamaica, there were signs that the Grammy-winning reggae icon was determined to make a fresh start. Three weeks prior to his release, the artist shared a statement on his Instagram making clear his intention to leave all contreversy in the past. “In light of the adversity I have encountered, I feel the need to stress that my only desire going forward is peace and love,” Buju wrote. “I only want to be associated with my craft. Having survived, I want to share the good news and strength of my music. I just want to continue making music, which I’ve devoted my life to. I look forward to the opportunity to say a personal thanks to my fans and everyone who supported me.” Exactly what prompted this sentiment was left open to interpretation, but since that time Buju has quietly made moves to back up this talk with action. Without fanfare he pulled the song “Boom Bye Bye,” which has led to so much criticism over the years, including protests and canceled shows. The track—which he has not performed live since the mid 2000s—is no longer available on Spotify, Apple Music, or Tidal. And yesterday, Buju issued a statement to explain why he made this move. Statement After The Jump…A few months after the November 2018 statement, Buju addressed the controversy surrounding the song “Boom Bye Bye,” issuing the following statement:
“In recent days there has been a great deal of press coverage about the song ‘Boom Bye Bye’ from my past which I long ago stopped performing and removed from any platform that I control or have influence over,” Buju said. “I recognize that the song has caused much pain to listeners, as well as to my fans, my family and myself. After all the adversity we’ve been through I am determined to put this song in the past and continue moving forward as an artist and as a man.”
It’s good to see this artist growing and maturing over time. What better time than now to make a fresh start and leave old problems behind? What do you think of Buju’s statement? Drop a comment below and share your thoughts. Buju’s Long Walk To Freedom Tour kicks off this March 16 in Kingston, Jamaica.
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[…] protests over the song. “After all the adversity we’ve been through,” Buju declared in a statement, “I am determined to put this song in the past and continue moving forward as an artist and as a […]