A good day for Buju - DEA agent again says no evidence artiste a drug dealer

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/A-good-day-for-Buju_8373371


FLORIDA, USA — Jurors in the highly anticipated second trial of reggae superstar Buju Banton heard testimony yesterday from lead investigator Dan McCaffrey of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) that there was no evidence that the artiste was a drug trafficker. In fact, at the end of his cross-examination from defence lawyer David Oscar Markus, it was revealed that Buju did not finance or benefit from the drug deal that he was charged with being a part of.

Jamaican reggae artiste Buju Banton (right) greets a friend outside the Sam M Gibbons Federal Court in Tampa, Florida yesterday afternoon after the first day of his retrial on drug and gun charges. (Photo: Paul Henry)

McCaffrey's testimony yesterday was similar to that he gave on day one of Banton's first trial.
Based on his investigation, McCaffrey said that two men from Georgia known only as Ike and Tyke put up the US$135,000 that Buju's friend Ian Thomas and another man — James Mack — had presented to undercover drug agents when they were busted in a sting operation on December 10, 2009.
In addition, McCaffrey said that there was no evidence of any connection between Buju and Ike and Tyke. The agent also agreed that Ike and Tyke were the buyers of the drugs for which Banton was arrested.
McCaffrey, while making these admissions and agreeing that Mack was a courier for Ike and Tyke, maintained that Thomas and Buju were the ones who brokered the drug deal.


During his opening statement to jurors, prosecutor James Preston said that Buju's role had shifted from seeking new avenues to expanding his multimillion-dollar drugs enterprise to that of a broker.
Preston told the jurors that Buju was actively involved in the conspiracy to possess and distribute cocaine, noting that he would provide the evidence to back his statement.
But during his address of the jurors, Markus presented a checklist of 10 reasons why his client is not guilty, chief among them is that Buju had backed out of earlier drug talk with Johnson on December 8, 2009 after discovering that Johnson was a real drug dealer.


Following yesterday's early adjournment, as a result of a juror falling ill, Buju and his lawyer emerged from the Sam M Gibbons Federal Court in Tampa and gave brief statements to the press. Markus said that he was pleased with how the day had progressed.
"We had a very good day," Markus told a throng of reporters. "We feel good. I feel the same way Mark [Buju] feels, that once the jurors listen to the facts they will find him not guilty because he's not guilty. He's innocent."
Buju had moments earlier told reporters that he was thankful for the jurors who were selected and asked that they pay attention to the facts of the case.
Two hours were spent yesterday morning selecting the 12 jurors who would decide Buju's fate. The panel is comprised of three African-American women.


The artiste is being tried for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine; attempted possession with the intent to distribute cocaine; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offence; and using the wires to facilitate a drug-trafficking offence.
If convicted, Buju could be sent to prison for 20 years.


Earlier in the morning, Buju, dressed in a dark suit and blue shirt, kept a cheerful demeanour, laughing and chatting with his attorneys. At one point as they stood for the entrance of the jurors, a member of Banton's legal team could be seen rubbing his back in a comforting way as they spoke.
In his opening address to the jurors, Markus petitioned to his client to stand, "This is Mark Myrie and he is not guilty," the lawyer said.


Markus told the jury that the artiste had no connection to the gun for which he was charged and that he had no connection to the drugs or the players in the deal.
But Preston said that Banton was a drug dealer and that the evidence would prove it. He told the jurors that at the end of the evidence he would be calling on them to convict the artiste, adding that America was depending on them.


Yesterday, Markus painted Johnson as a con artist, saying that he had set up Banton for financial benefit. Jurors were told that Johnson was paid US$50,000 for his part in the Buju Banton investigation.
Johnson, a former drug dealer turned informant, has been paid a total of US$3.3 million for his work with the US Government since 1996.

Buju honoured by Grammy win

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/entertainment/Buju-honoured-by-Grammy-win-Industry-mates-joyful_8371616


Buju Banton's win at the Grammy Awards on Sunday has gone down extremely well with his fellow music industry practitioners here at home.
The deejay, who is currently facing drug charges in a US court, was showered with congratulatory messages following the announcement that his project, Before the Dawn, was named Best Reggae Album.

In a release, the deejay -- born Mark Myrie -- is quoted as saying: "Winning this Grammy is an honour because it truly shows that my music has transcended a lot of borders and people are now paying attention to what I'm saying, in-depth."
"Music is an art form that cannot be denied by any living soul. Music is life. Many thanks to the Recording Academy for recognising my work," he continues.

Former manager/producer and long-time friend and confidant Donovan Germain could not contain his joy for his prodigy. "It was long overdue, better late than never. He should have won a Grammy from Til Shiloh. I am hoping for the best with his trial and I hope everything works out well for him. I have him in my prayers," Germain said.

Culture minister Olivia 'Babsy' Grange in her message of congratulations to the artiste, noted that she shares the pride and joy of Buju Banton and all his fans across the world . "This is a very important award that recognises his music talent. Buju has produced great music over the years and the album Before the Dawn adds to his collection of outstanding works that has helped to bring Jamaica's Reggae music to the peoples of the world," Minister Grange adds.

"Justified," that is how Headline Entertainment's Jerome Hamilton describes Buju's win. Hamilton continues: "Even if it is not for this album, which is a good product, but for volume of his work over the years and his contribution to reggae. Buju has reached a benchmark as a deejay with his sustained international success and recognition such as this is truly long overdue," he said.

US-based Jamaican broadcast journalist Clinton Lindsay also added his comments to the news of Buju's win, noting that he was not surprised based on the other nominees in the Best Reggae Album category. "Like many others, I am not at all happy with the way the nomination was done. But once the final five nominees were announced, it was clear to me that Buju Banton's Before the Dawn was the best of the lot. From that moment I have been predicting it would win. During my interview with him for his concert January 16, I also told him he would win. As of early Sunday afternoon I posted my prediction on Facebook. Congratulations Buju and good luck in proving your innocence," Lindsay said.

UWI lecturer, Dr Donna Hope Marquis sees the Buju win as a plus for Jamaican popular music. "I was hoping and praying that Buju would get this year's Reggae Grammy Award and am really delighted at this, his first-ever Grammy Award after so many years of excellent music. It is another positive step forward for Jamaican popular music generally and it is a most important milestone for Buju Banton, especially with his ongoing trial in the USA. I really believe that this Grammy Award is a signal that Buju is on the last mile of the road and will be home soon. It is a silver lining in a very dark cloud, just Before the Dawn," she concluded.

Legal Troubles Pile Up For Buju

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110211/lead/lead5.html

Reggae superstar Buju Banton has failed in his renewed attempt to have one of his initial co-defendants, James Mack, testify at his new trial.

That was one of three crushing blows to hit Buju on Wednesday by the United States District Court in the Middle District of Florida.

As was expected, the court dismissed Buju's attempt to have the trial take place with him facing only the two initial charges.

The court also rejected his motion to dismiss newly created transcripts and to use the ones which featured in the first trial.

When he enters the court on Monday morning, Buju, whose real name is Mark Myrie, will now face charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, attempting to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm during the course of a drug-trafficking crime and using a communication facility in the commission of an act constituting a felony.

Mack, who has already pleaded guilty to the charges, had invoked his Fifth Amendment rights and refused to testify at the original trial.

His lawyers subsequently indicated that the position would not change this time around.

But lawyers representing Buju had urged the judge to have Mack in court and have him testify.

Sworn statement

Last August, Mack gave a sworn statement in which he declared that he had never spoken to Buju.

In that statement, Mack also declared that the money and gun found in the car when he was arrested did not come from Buju.

That would be a boost for Buju in his retrial but the court on Wednesday held that, with Mack yet to be sentenced, there was nothing new to prevent him from pleading the Fifth.

In the meantime, the court has modified Buju's bail conditions to allow him to travel to Tampa on Sunday for the trial.

However, the security detail will remain in place and will be responsible for Buju at all times, except when he is the courthouse.

Big blow for Buju - Reggae artiste now to answer four charges

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Big-blow-for--Buju-_8347046

JAMAICAN reggae artiste Buju Banton will be facing four charges instead of two when he goes on retrial in a US federal court next Monday. Judge James Moody yesterday afternoon dismissed a motion by Banton seeking to have the new indictment thrown out.

"...We are going to trial on Monday on the new charges. That's okay. We are ready," attorney David Oscar Markus told the Observer yesterday.

The four-time Grammy nominated artiste whose real name is Mark Myrie, had originally been tried last September on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, and aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm during a drug-trafficking offence.

Banton will now be tried for:

* conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine;

* attempted possession with the intent to distribute cocaine;

* possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offence; and

* using the wires to facilitate a drug-trafficking offence.

The prosecution had secured the new indictment with an additional two counts last November after Banton's first trial ended with a hung jury in September.

Banton is to be tried in the Sam M Gibbons Federal Court in Tampa, Florida. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years' imprisonment.

Banton was arrested in December 2009 as part of a sting operation following the arrests of two men, Ian Thomas and James Mack, in Florida and was slapped with the drug and weapon charges. The men, who pleaded guilty to the charges last year are expected to testify during Banton's second trial. They did not participate in the previous trial.

The second trial was to have started last December but was postponed so Banton, who is on US$250,000 bail and is subjected to house arrest, could spend time with his family.

Buju's Fingers Still Crossed

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110203/lead/lead4.html

Arthur Hall, Senior Staff Reporter

Lawyers representing dancehall star Mark 'Buju Banton' Myrie have confirmed a Gleaner report that United States District judge James Moody has ruled against a motion seeking to dismiss new charges against him.

The ruling - Document 232 - was filed in the court on January 26, and rejects one of two motions filed by Buju's lawyers as they seek to get the additional charges dismissed.

But the defence attorneys yesterday told The Gleaner that they remain hopeful that Buju will be retried on only two charges despite the court's rejection of a motion for the new charges to be dismissed for vindictiveness.

Buju's lead attorney, David Marcus, yesterday noted that the United States District Court in the Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division, is yet to rule on a second motion to dismiss the superseding indictment which contains the new charges.

That second motion argues that the new charges were multiplicitous and in violation of the double-jeopardy clause.

"One motion has nothing to do with the other. And the denial of the one motion hasn't affected our confidence at all," Marcus told The Gleaneryesterday.

"We are looking forward to a jury trial," said Marcus, who remains upbeat as he approaches the February 14 start of Buju's retrial.

In the January 26 ruling, Moody accepted the prosecution's claim that "as long as the prosecutor has probable cause to believe the accused has committed a crime, the courts have no authority to interfere with a prosecutor's decision to prosecute".

But Marcus is still pinning his hope on the ruling on the second motion.

Additional charges

If that motion is also dismissed, Buju will be tried on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine and attempting to possess five kilograms or more of cocaine.

He will also be tried on a charge of knowingly and intentionally possessing a firearm in furtherance of and during the course of a drug-trafficking crime.

The other charge which Buju could face is that he knowingly and intentionally aided and abetted others in using a communication facility in the commission of a felony.

Buju had originally been tried on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, and aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm during a drug-trafficking offence.

That trial ended in a hung jury.

arthur.hall@gleanerjm.com

Buju's retrial set for February 14

http://go-jamaica.com/news/read_article.php?id=26040

Florida, CMC – Jamaican reggae artiste Mark Myrie otherwise known as Buju Banton will face a federal court on February 14 to be retried on drug and gun-related charges. 

The date of the highly anticipated trial was set on Wednesday by Judge James Moody. 

Myrie was last tried in September on charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, and aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm during a drug-trafficking offence. 

However, the 12-member panel of jurors was unable to reach a verdict following three days of deliberations. That trial lasted a little over a week. 

The second trial was scheduled to get underway last December but was postponed so that Myrie, who is on US$250,000 bail and is subjected to house arrest, could spend time with his family. 

It was not immediately clear if Myrie would be tried on the previous charges or the additional charges tacked on by the prosecution in a new indictment, which are being challenged by the entertainer's legal team. Both the prosecution and defence are awaiting a ruling on the matter. 

Should the new indictment stand, Myrie will be tried for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, attempted possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking offence, and facilitating a drug-trafficking offence. 

If convicted, he faces up to 20 years' imprisonment. The United States Government would also seek to seize his assets. 

Myrie was arrested in December of 2009 following the arrests of two other men, Ian Thomas and James Mack, who subsequently pleaded guilty to similar charges.

Buju steadfast as 2nd drug trial draws closer

http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/Buju-steadfast-as-2nd-drug-trial-draws-closer_8299484

DAVID Oscar Markus, the attorney representing beleaguered Jamaican Reggae icon Buju Banton, has hailed his client's resolve and sense of purpose during his times of trouble.

Banton, registered at birth as Mark Anthony Myrie, was arrested and jailed by Florida police in December 2009 on drug-related charges. He spent 11 months in the Pinellas County Jail and is set to face another trial next month for conspiracy to possess, with intent to distribute five or more kilogrammes of cocaine, and facilitating the use of a firearm in committing a crime.

But Markus said the experience has brought out the best in the four-time Grammy-nominated Reggae artiste, as lesser mortals would have crumbled under the pressure which Banton has endured.

"The reason Buju hasn't crumbled is because he is innocent and is a man of faith. He has told me many times that he'd rather serve 15 years than admitting to something he didn't do. Of course, we plan on winning, so he won't have to serve another day," Markus told the Sunday Observer.

Last week, Markus served a motion to dismiss a superseding indictment filed by prosecutor James Preston, which added two charges of attempted possession of cocaine, facilitating a cocaine conspiracy by aiding and abetting others using a telephone, and possessing and carrying a firearm.

Markus argued in his motion that the additional charges were filed out of sheer vindictiveness on the part of the United States Government.

"Due process prohibits prosecutors from acting vindictively when exercising their discretion either to bring charges in the first instance, or to supersede existing charges with more onerous ones," the motion states.

Both defence and prosecution are awaiting the court's ruling on the matter and to also find out which date in February the artiste's second trial will get underway.

If found guilty, Banton could be sentenced for up to 20 years in a federal prison. His assets could also be seized by the United States Government.

In September, Myrie's first trial ended in a mistrial after a 12-member panel of jurors failed to come to a unanimous decision as to his innocence or guilt.

He was granted bail soon after and the Federal Court granted him permission to perform at a concert to raise funds to pay his legal bills.

The first trial reportedly cost Myrie US$450,000.

The concert, dubbed "Before The Dawn — Buju Banton and Friends", was held at the Bayfront Park Amphitheatre at Biscayne Boulevard, downtown Miami last Sunday and attracted about 10,000 patrons, some of whom expressed hope that Banton would overcome his legal woes which have stalled his career for over a year.

Dorrett Williams, a resident of West Palm Beach, a Florida city which is about an hour's drive from downtown Miami, wished that the artiste could come through unscathed.

"I have known Buju since he was a child living on Barbican Road. We were neighbours and we used to call him 'Blacka'. I am silently hoping and praying that he will be found not guilty so he can take up where he left off and keep entertaining us as only he can," Williams said.

Fellow reggae artiste Everton Blender was also full of hope that the artiste would be found not guilty.

"Everyone makes mistakes, and it is times like these that we need moral support. Buju is a good man and that is why I have come to perform here without charging. He needs all the support he can get," Blender told reporters after his performance on Sunday.

During his performance, Banton was obviously relieved that he was no longer locked away. His already thin frame seemed to have lost a few pounds, but he never showed any wear and tear as he put on an energetic two-hour performance.

He has consistently maintained his innocence and took time out from his set to take a jab at his accusers.

"Why do they want to see Buju cry? Is it because of Boom Bye Bye? Is it because I say Selassie I? Is it because I am black and not shy?" he belted out, much to the approval of his adoring fans.

At another juncture, he sang, "Babylon lock me inna jail and don't want gimme no bail. Like a me name Josey Wale."

The artiste has been under constant pressure from the international gay community for a single he released in the infancy of his career entitled Boom Bye Bye. The song hits out at the gay lifestyle and caused homosexual activists to dub the song 'murder music'. The tune has sparked numerous demonstrations by members of that community at his concerts in North America and Europe,

He has not performed the song on stage for more than a decade and had attended a meeting with members of the United States gay community in 2009, in a bid to mend fences.

However, the move has failed to appease gay lobbyists, who have protested his Grammy nominations and sought to have him banned from performing at venues in Europe and North America, two continents where he rakes in a substantial portion of his earnings from live appearances.

A Haitian national who lives in Miami and gave his name only as Francois, was certain that Banton was set up by gays, who he feels will go to any length to see the Jamaican's career on the dump heap.

"I strongly believe that he was set up by gays. He certainly does not need drug money to survive and everybody knows they hate his guts," Francios said.

Surprisingly there was no gay protest at the concert on Sunday.

Concert Review: Buju Banton and Friends Concert at Bayfront Park Amphitheather, January 16

http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/crossfade/2011/01/last_night_buju_banton_and_fri.php

Buju Banton and Friends
Featuring Buju Banton, Stephen Marley, DJ Khaled, Gramps Morgan, and More
Sunday, January 16, 2011, Bayfront Park Amphitheater, Miami

Better than: Any reggae concert you've ever attended.

Last night was a movie of epic blockbuster proportions. Imagine if Avatar came out with a sequel staring Will Smith and Angelina Jolie in 4D, mix that with somePirates of the Caribbean action and you got yourself last night. So let's repeat: Last night was a movie!

For those of you who've been living under a rock, reggae icon Buju Banton is free on bail and took over Bayfront Park with a few of his closest friends. It was a long-awaited return for this controversial artist who has been a solid, iconic figure in the reggae community for over two decades. Now, after 11 months behind bars, Buju is back and his stage show could not have been better. It was clear that Buju missed performing. And if there's any place on earth that he wishes to permanently be, it was the stage. 

But before Buju's triumphant return on stage, we cannot forget the slew of musician friends who came out to support. And besides the artists, let's not forget the fans. Supporters from New York, Toronto, Kingston, London, and even as far away as Australia came to see Buju in the flesh.

And those who weren't able to cough up a few hundred bucks for plane tickets were able to see the concert virtually for only $25 bucks! LIME Mobile, a new cellular phone company in the Caribbean and proud sponsor of the show, was streaming live to all mobile devices in Jamaica and beyond. Promoters are saying that hundreds of thousands of reggae fans were tuning in live from across the globe to see this concert online. An exact number is still being determined. But we're certain that many reggae artists who wished to be present at the concert but could not receive their Visas to travel were indeed tuning in from home.   

Back to the show ... The park was jammed packed by 6 p.m. as up-and-comer Richie Loop took the stage, singing his latest radio hit, "My Cup", followed by roots reggae crooner Everton Blender who brought in his classic soul with "Ghetto People Song" and "Lift Up Your Head." After the legendary Mr. Blender, there was former teen sensation and longtime Buju collaborator Nadine Sutherland, who dropped the kind of original island gyal swagger that Rihanna can only dream about.

Up next, another reggae icon, Freddie McGregor and his "Big Ship," took over. By now, the park was overflowing with reggae diehards and it was barely sundown. A huge roar ripped through the crowd as surprise guest Gyptian hit the stage and sang his crossover hit "Hold You." Then enter Wayne Wonder who got the ladies dancing to his hit "No Letting Go."

Soon after, Black Uhuru legend Mykal Rose brought that old-school roots rock before Morgan Heritage's own Gramps Morgan did his bit. And keeping with the laid-back, lover's rock vibe came Tarrus Riley, singing strictly for the ladies.

As you can tell by now, with the laundry list of reggae artists who hit the stage, this concert was like the Reggae Grammy's. And as if it couldn't get any better, Mr. Dutty Rock, Sean Paul, showed up, delivering a speedy, chart-topping set accompanied by none other than Spragga Benz. The follow-up: Shaggy, who surprisingly did a solid 30-minute set with a full band before introducing DJ Khaled and Busta Rhymes. Within minutes, the 10,000-plus audience was going crazy for the tag team's remix of "All I Do Is Win."

Phew! Are we tired yet or what? But finally at 10 p.m. sharp, the lights went dim and the crowd bursted into cheers and tears as Buju Banton walked on stage, donning a classic white dress shirt and black pants, his dreads pinned up neatly, his leather boots glistening. The entrance was serene as he sang an acapella version of "Close One Yesterday." His voice was better than ever, clearer, stronger, more refined.

After his introduction song, he thanked his fans and supporters, something that he has so eagerly wanted to do since his arrest. But this was a joyous occasion, a celebration, a cathartic musical explosion. And without wasting any time, he went straight into his classic song library with heavy tunes, such as "Not an Easy Road," "Untold Stories," and "Wanna Be Loved."

Midway into the set, Buju took to the mic and said: "This woman I met when I was 18 years old. She said to me, 'Be careful what you say in your music because it takes a life of its own.'" In walked reggae legend Marcia Griffith, and the pair sang their classic duet "Closer" as well as "Live On." After that unbelievable performance, Buju told the crowd that his mentor, Beres Hammond, was also supposed to put in a cameo but was unable to make the trek. But no worries, Buju quickly went into the sweet classic Hammond classic "Who Say" as the audience sang along, word for word.

By 11:35 p.m., strict park curfew was about to come down. And Buju needed to move the show along if he wanted to bring in more of his friends. Out walked longtime friend and advocate Stephen Marley, launching into his popular hit "The Traffic Jam." As expected, Stephen introduced baby brother Damian Marley to finish up the song. And another major moment as Buju and the Marley brothers played their collabo song "Jah Army" as the crowd threw their lighters and flags high in the air.

Reaching the peak, Buju brought back his protege Wayne Wonder for their biggest hit, "I Don't Know Why," followed by "Forever Young." Next, "Champion" and "Driver A" got the crowd more hyped than usual. And finally, Buju took us all to church! He welcomed Gramps Morgan again for a gut-wrenching version of "23 Psalms," a plea to the Lord for his mercy.

To end the night, Buju brought out his attorney David Markus as the crowd gave an overwhelming cheer. This was Buju's homecoming. And without faith, love, and the support of friends, family, and fans, this concert would never have happened.

Critic's Notebook

Personal Bias: Despite the many talents that graced the stage last night, no one could have come close to the main act himself. Buju Banton's performance was the best we've ever seen. This man gave 150 percent of his soul at this show. For two hours straight, Buju's voice did not once pitch. His energy was locked on level 10 and his stage presence made you feel like you were the only person in the room. He was indeed born to perform.

Random Detail: At exactly 11:59 p.m., the park's light went on, the sound was shut off, and raindrops started to come down. Either it was coincidence or some divine moment ... Jah rastafari! 

Overheard in the Crowd: Security was full force as not just local but federal police agents were placed on duty for this concert. "It's like Fort Knox backstage," said one member of an artist's entourage. Imagine all the groupies, girlfriends, and baby mamas trying desperately to get in! Sorry, ladies, next time.

IRIE JAM LANDS FIRST RADIO INTERVIEW WITH BUJU BANTON

http://www.anguillanews.com/enews/index.php/permalink/3710.html

New York: International reggae icon Buju Banton broke his silence to the USA media on Monday, December 20, exactly 41 days after he was granted bail in a Florida courtroom. The interview, which was done with New York based Irie Jam, 93.5 FM, lasted about 12 minutes and will air on Christmas Day, Saturday, December 25, 2010 - a Christmas gift for his fans in the NY tri-state area who have supported him during his ordeal.

"Greetings to all the tri-state area" was how the Gargamel greeted fans in the telephone interview with DJ Roy from his home in South Florida. "I truly appreciate your support and I want you to know this is my first interview since I was released on bond."

Banton's decision to make Irie Jam his first, reiterates the close bond and trust that exists between the artiste and station executives.

"Apart from a natural music industry fostered relationship, Buju Banton has been a true friend and family member to Irie Jam Radio for many, many years" Louie Grant, VP of Irie Jam radio explained. "The entire team is compelled, yet equally honored to stand shoulder to shoulder with Banton, his family, friends, loyal supporters and well-wishers during and beyond these challenging times – a resolute position that we have all been encouraged to demonstrate by his lyrics and music over the years. We are therefore very humbled that Rockers Island and Gargamel Music, producers of his upcoming Before the Dawn concert in Florida, have engaged us to play an integral role in the planning of this eagerly anticipated concert – prophetically and aptly named after Buju's most recent 2011 Grammy nominated project."

The "Buju Banton & Friends - Before The Dawn" concert takes place at the Bayfront Park Amphitheater in downtown Miami on Sunday, January 16 during the Dr. Martin Luther King holiday weekend. The concert will provide Banton the opportunity to personally thank fans for their support during the turbulent times. He is looking forward to performing on stage once more and is promising fans a special treat.

"I have not sang for my people from my heart in a long while. I want to pour my heart out and my music to the people who have been there and supported me" he reassured fans.
"Remember I am a man that sings about suffering, struggling, oppression and depression all my life; I try to uplift other people. Now that the shoes are on my feet, I can personally identify with such rigerous treatment" he said.

Irie Jam is leading the charge of fans and supporters from the New York metro region expected to converge in Miami for the milestone concert that will present Banton in his first performance in more than a year. A number of top music stars including Steven Marley, Wayne Wonder, Shaggy, Tony Rebel, Gramps Morgan, Sly & Robbie, Freddy McGregor, John Legend, Marcia Griffiths, Beres Hammond, Jr Gong and DJ Khalead are confirmed to perform.

A special “fly away" package with Irie Jam radio DJs is being offered by Island Expert Travel for fans traveling to Miami. The package, which cost US$565.00, includes air, hotel, concert tickets, shuttle service to the concert as well as airport and hotel transfers.

Contact Island Expert Travel @ 877 872 8803 for further information. Visit www.bujulive.com for more information about the “Before the Dawn” concert slated for Sunday January 16, 2011, 301 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami, Florida.

Buju & Friends Live Concert in Miami

http://www.bujulive.com/
Sunday January 16th 2011 Martin Luther King Weekend, mark your calendars for the most highly anticipated show that will lock down any other show for the entire year, Buju Banton Live on Stage for one night and one night only.  There is no other way to start 2011, but to start it with one of the leading Grammy Nominated Reggae Artist, Buju. Just when they thought Mr. Gargamel would stop to dwell on the negativity, Buju rises and comes fourth with friends for Before the Dawn Concert.  With no school or work the next day there is no other reason to miss this once in a life time un-expected concert, which will not happen anywhere else in the USA.  So come out and witness history as Buju hits the stage on American Soil, which most people say, may be his very last show. 

Buju will be performing hits like, "Bogle", "Destiny", "I wanna be loved", "Driver", "Untold Story", "Til I Lay to rest" tracks from his new album"Before the Dawn" and the list goes on!  This show will show why he is one of the Best Reggae Artist of all time!  Not only will it be a moment of truth, but a moment of Happiness for a man who does something who truly loves to do. 

This concert is a show with Buju alone, but the list of acts from top Dancehall, Reggae, Hip-Hop and R&B artist that will be added will leave with a lost of words.  Music will be by New Yorks’ Hot 97 finest, Massive B with Bobby Konders, Jabba and Shotta and the Host of the night, hum?  Just know this is why Miami brings you nothing but the BEST of the BEST!  Book your flights and get your tickets there is no other questions that needs to be asked!!!

This is a family Event Kids Free Under 12 W/Adult

Doors Open at 4pm Showtime 5pm *SHARP*

Taken Place @ Bayfront Park AMPHITHEATRE 301 North Biscayne Blvd Downtown Miami FL (Next to Bayfront Market)

 More Info and Booth Rentals Please Call 305 438 9488

Tickets Adv. $42  VIP Tickets $100