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James Parriett
Buju Banton LV
June 7, 2025 – In a historic moment for reggae and dancehall music, GRAMMY-winning artist Buju Banton made his official debut as the first reggae and dancehall headliner in Las Vegas, Nevada. Fans from across the globe converged on the iconic Planet Hollywood Zappos Theater on June 6th and 7th to witness the legendary performer live.
The atmosphere at the Zappos Theater was electric even before Banton took the stage. The vibrant chatter of excited concert-goers filled the air, accompanied by the sounds of dancehall and reggae classics spun by pre-show DJs, setting a joyful tone for the evening. The Grind EMAG, fortunate enough to secure tickets for the Saturday show, described the experience as a "privilege to see the great Buju Banton live in person."
Mark Anthony Myrie, known to the world as Buju Banton, has long been a pivotal figure in Jamaican music, spreading messages of good feelings and love through his timeless genre. With a career spanning back to 1992, Banton boasts a remarkable discography, including highly successful studio albums such as "The Stamina," "Mr. Mention," and "Before The Dawn," which have captivated multiple generations of fans.
The evening kicked off with an energetic performance from opening act Jesse Royal, who successfully ignited the crowd and set an electric tone that seamlessly transitioned into Buju Banton's highly anticipated set.
While the historic nature of the event was undoubtedly a highlight, the experience was not without its minor challenges. The Planet Hollywood Zappos Theater encountered technical issues during the show's opening. These included an unexplained late start, intermittent glitching of the LED background panels, and occasional sound system malfunctions. However, as the show progressed and Buju Banton commanded the stage, these initial technical hiccups faded into the background, becoming largely unnoticeable amidst the captivating performance.
Ultimately, the show went on, marking a significant milestone for reggae and dancehall music in Las Vegas. The Grind EMAG expressed its gratitude for being a part of this memorable occasion. Congratulations to Buju Banton on this groundbreaking achievement!
Photo Credit: The Grind EMAG (James Parriett)