Joe and Jada - Buju Banton DEBUTS “Butterflies” + talks Jamaica’s hip hop roots, dancehall history & summer tour w/ Stephen Marley

The Herd with Colin Cowherd1h 5mApril 17, 2026

Get the full intelligence

Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Joe and Jada - Buju Banton DEBUTS “Butterflies” + talks Jamaica’s hip hop roots, dancehall history & summer tour w/ Stephen Marley” inside PodZeus.

AI-Generated Summary

In this dynamic episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, Joe and Jada welcome legendary Jamaican dancehall icon Buju Banton, who makes a powerful return with his new single 'Butterflies' and discusses the deep roots of Jamaican music, its global influence, and the evolution of hip hop. Banton reflects on his career, the cultural significance of dancehall as a form of expression, and the importance of preserving authenticity in music. He shares personal stories from his rise in the industry, including his early days in Jamaica, his friendship with Fat Joe, and his experiences navigating fame and controversy, including his 10-year hiatus and return to the spotlight. The conversation also delves into the legacy of key figures like Major Worries, Shabba Ranks, and Lady Saw, as well as the role of Jamaican diaspora communities in New York and the U.S. The episode culminates in a celebration of Banton’s upcoming summer tour with Stephen Marley and a heartfelt message about cultural pride, intergenerational respect, and the need for artists to stay true to their roots. The hosts emphasize the importance of community, legacy, and the enduring power of music as both therapy and truth-telling.

Key Takeaways
1

Buju Banton’s new single 'Butterflies' is a love-driven anthem aimed at rekindling emotional connection in a genre often dominated by tough imagery.

2

Jamaican dancehall originated as street music rooted in real-life struggles and evolved into a global cultural force, influencing hip hop and reggae worldwide.

3

The legacy of pioneers like Major Worries, Shabba Ranks, and Lady Saw must be acknowledged and preserved to maintain authenticity in modern music.

4

Artists should prioritize community, culture, and positive messaging over controversy and gatekeeping, especially when engaging with fans directly.

5

The rise of AI and digital culture has blurred the lines between reality and illusion, making authenticity more crucial than ever in storytelling and music.

Chapters
0:00
7 min

Introduction to Buju Banton: The Lion of Dancehall

He's the GOAT. Nobody fucking with Bujabai. Yeah. Call him Gargamel. Take a 10-year hiatus. Come back. Sound brand new.

Highlight
6:40
10 min

The Origins of Buju Banton: From Name to Legacy

Banton shares the origin of his name—'Buju' from his mother, 'Banton' from his admiration for Buru Banton—and discusses the cultural significance of the DJ in Jamaica versus the U.S. He also recounts confronting a fake 'Buju' in Africa, highlighting the importance of authenticity.

16:40
17 min

The Roots of Jamaican Music: From Streets to Global Stage

It was so much so that you could not even let your parents know that they have musical aspirations. Because, you know, the people who represented it were bad boys.

Highlight
33:20
17 min

The Cultural Impact of Jamaican Music and the Diaspora

We had a legend pass away, big legend. Willie Colon started Sousa Music with Hector Lavoe... They saluted him like a king.

Highlight
50:00
17 min

The New Album 'Butterflies' and the Summer Tour with Stephen Marley

This one is called butterflies. Don't you make a feel butterflies. So this one. This one is called butterflies.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
We had a legend pass away, big legend. Willie Colon started Sousa Music with Hector Lavoe... They saluted him like a king.
Buju Banton18:59
Viral: 88.0
It was so much so that you could not even let your parents know that they have musical aspirations. Because, you know, the people who represented it were bad boys.
Buju Banton20:59
Viral: 85.0
AI is crazy. Disneyland is an illusion. You told me 20 years ago, Disneyland is an illusion.
Buju Banton68:25
Viral: 82.0
Speakers

Hosts

Joe Crack the DonJada Kiss

Guest

Buju Banton
Topics Discussed
Jamaican Dancehall History95%Music as Cultural Expression90%Legacy of Pioneers in Reggae and Hip Hop88%Artistic Authenticity and Integrity85%Jamaican Diaspora and Community82%The Role of Music in Healing and Identity80%AI and the Blurring of Reality75%Touring and Live Performance Revival70%
People & Brands

Buju Banton

person

120xPositive

Joe Crack the Don

person

85xPositive

Jada Kiss

person

78xPositive

Jamaica

place

40xPositive

Fat Joe

person

25xPositive

Stephen Marley

person

15xPositive

New York City

place

15xPositive

Major Worries

person

12xPositive

Shabba Ranks

person

10xPositive

Taste Right Beef Patty

brand

10xPositive

Get the full intelligence

Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “Joe and Jada - Buju Banton DEBUTS “Butterflies” + talks Jamaica’s hip hop roots, dancehall history & summer tour w/ Stephen Marley” inside PodZeus.

Start discovering podcast insights today

Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.

No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime