From crown to rings: Buju’s ‘Born for Greatness’ cover captures evolution message
Published:Monday | August 21, 2023 | 12:06 AM
Jamaican reggae legend Buju Banton is back with his highly anticipated album Born for Greatness, set for release on Friday, September 8. The album cover itself, which benefits from the creative direction of Chris Feldmann, is a testament to Buju’s constant evolution as an artiste, while staying true to himself and his message.
In the captivating album cover photo by Jamie Crawford-Walker, Buju Banton is suited and styled by Bobby Nelson and he is seen wearing a crown by Laurel Dewitt, and two remarkable rings on his hands.
On one hand, he proudly dons Johnny Nelson’s Let Freedom Ring 4 Finger Ring, featuring the iconic faces of Civil Rights Mount Rushmore – Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm X, Marcus Garvey, and Frederick Douglass. This symbol of unity and empowerment signifies Buju’s commitment to social justice and the ongoing struggle for equality in modern society.
On his other hand, Banton wears the extraordinary Her Freedom 4 Finger Ring. This unique piece pays homage to influential women who fought tirelessly for freedom, justice, and equality. The names engraved on the ring include Harriet Tubman, Shirley Chisholm, Sojourner Truth, and Ida B. Wells. Buju Banton’s choice to wear these powerful figures on his hand is a testament to his belief in the strength and resilience of women in shaping history.
“I have envisioned artistes like Buju Banton and athletes like Colin Kaepernick wearing my pieces. I create statement yet conversation pieces, with the intention to promote healing, self-empowerment, and growth in all aspects of life. I feel like Buju Banton checks all those boxes, plus many more, with his bold style, voice, and artistry,” Nelson said.
He added, “For me this is also a full-circle moment; growing up in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, we were basically raised on Buju and dancehall culture. From my mum blasting him on Saturday morning while we cleaned the house, or in the streets [with] the shops playing it down Nostrand Ave and Utica Ave. Not to mention I’m partnered with the only Jamaican jewellery production team in the NYC Diamond District, Make it your design, run by my breddah Richard Singh. These types of things hit different when it’s for the culture and you’re of the culture.”
Born for Greatness showcases Buju Banton’s dynamic and evolving musical style, while maintaining the core of his authentic reggae roots. As a celebrated artiste who has consistently pushed the boundaries of reggae music, Buju Banton has never strayed from delivering profound messages that resonate with his fans worldwide.
With each song on the album, Buju Banton continues to inspire and encourage his listeners to strive for greatness, love, and unity. His music goes beyond entertainment, serving as a beacon of hope and motivation for those seeking to make a positive change in their lives and communities.