As a youngster, Buju would often watch his favourite artists perform at outdoor shows and local dancehalls. At the tender age of 13 he picked up the microphone for himself and began toasting under the monicker of "Gargamel". His first single, "The Ruler" was released not long afterwards in 1987 under the production of Robert French at Penthouse Studios.
In 1991, Buju joined Donovan Germain's Penthouse Label and began a fruitful partnership with producer Dave Kelly. Buju is one of the most popular musicians in Jamaican history, having burst onto the charts there suddenly in 1992, with "Bogle" and "Love Me Browning/Love Black Woman", both massive hits in Jamaica. Controversy erupted over Love Me Browning which spoke of Banton's preference for light-skinned women: "Mi love mi car mi love mi house mi love mi money and ting, but most of all mi love mi browning." Some accused Banton of promoting a colonialist attitude and denigrating the beauty of black women. In response, he released "Black Woman" which spoke of his love for dark-skinned beauties: "Stop cry, fi all black woman, respect all the gyals with dark complexion." 1992 was an explosive year for Buju as he broke the great Bob Marley's record for the greatest number of number one singles in a year. Beginning with "Man fi Dead", Buju's gruff voice dominated the Jamaican airwaves for the duration of the year. Banton's debut album, Mr. Mention, includes his greatest hits from that year.
1992 was also the year in which the controversy over Buju's homophobic "Boom Bye Bye" exploded. The media in Great Britain picked up on Buju's less than admirable promotion of violence against homosexuals. Myrie, who had recently signed with Mercury records, refused to back down from his stance against homosexuals, claiming his religious beliefs prevented him from accepting homosexuality. Banton downplayed the violent content of his song, claiming that it was metaphorical. Gay Rights groups campaigned against Buju as well as Shabba Ranks who, when asked about the controversy on the British show The Word, stated, "God created Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve." Shabba later apologized, but Buju refused to back down which drew the ire of various homosexual advocacy groups who continue to campaign against him.
Banton released the hard-hitting Voice of Jamaica in 1993. The album included a number of conscious tracks. These tracks included "Deportees" a song which criticized those Jamaicans who went abroad but never sent money home, a remix of Little Roy's "Tribal War", a sharp condemnation of political violence, and "Willy, Don't Be Silly" which promoted condom use. The conscious spin of this disc did little to stop the attacks of gay rights groups who felt that his continued performance of "Boom Bye Bye" was a slap in their faces. Some dancehall fans felt that Banton could have exploded onto the American scene if his homophobic song hadn't held him back. Nevertheless, Buju was adopted by many new fans who appreciated his gravelly vocals and cared little about his homophobia.
Til Shiloh (1995) was a very influential album, using a studio band instead of synthesized music, and marking a slight shift away from dancehall towards roots reggae for Banton. Buju turned Rasta and his new album reflected his new beliefs. Til Shiloh is one of the greatest dancehall albums of all time and successfully blended conscious lyrics with a hard-hitting dancehall vibe. The album included a single called "Murderer" which condemned the violence in Jamaican dancehall music, inspired by the murders of dancehall musicians Panhead and Dirtsman. The song inspired several clubs to stop playing songs with excessively violent subject matter. This conscious album had a large impact on dancehall music and showed the hunger the dancehall massive had for conscious lyrics. Dancehall music did not move away from slack and violent lyrics, but the album did pave the way for a greater spirituality within the music.
Inna Heights (1997) substantially increased Banton's international audience as Buju explored his singing ability and recorded a number of roots-tinged tracks. Banton covered The Silvertones' "Destiny" and recorded songs with such artists as Beres Hammond and the legendary Toots Hibbert. The album was well-received but had distribution problems. Also, some fans were disappointed, having hoped for another ground-breaking album like "Til Shiloh." Still, Buju's experimentation and soaring vocals impressed many fans and this album remains a highly regarded work.
In 1998, Buju met the punk band Rancid and recorded two tracks with them: "Misty Days" and "Life Won't Wait." The latter became the title track of Rancid's 1999 album, Life Won't Wait. Subsequently, Buju signed with Rancid's eclectic Anti, a subsidiary of Epitaph and released Unchained Spirit in 2000.
In March 2003 he released Friends for Life, which featured more sharply political songs, including "Mr. Nine", an anti-gun song that further verified his status as one of reggae's most anti-confrontational artists.
Banton's 2006 album Too Bad got him nominated for a second Grammy but despite the album's brilliance and artistic excellence "Too Bad" did not garner the award. "Too Bad" brings us back to the Buju of the nineties with his rough phenomenal voice backed by hypnotic beats and conscious lyrics that seem to stay on repeat in your head. "Too Bad" is a complete listen from start to finish and is an extra success because the Gargamel executive produced the album on his own label.
On April 21, 2009, Buju released the often delayed album Rasta Got Soul. This is Banton's ninth album and features the hit single Magic City. This release sees Buju returning to roots and culture reggae. The album received a Grammy nomination in the Best Reggae Album category.
As of December 2009, Buju allegedly attempted to buy cocaine from an undercover officer in Miami and faces up to life in prison if convicted. The trial of Banton began on September 20, 2010 in Tampa, Florida.
Cherry Pie
Buju Banton Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I saw you from behind
I thought that you were mine
And your zodiac sign was fine
Rum with a twist of lime
Cherry pie in my eyes
Convince me that you're the one
Whine your body (bruk it down), move your body
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body
So you might as well
Whine your body (bruk it down), move your body, girl
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body, girl
So you might as well
Whine your body (bruk it down), move your body
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body
Whine your body (bruk it down, yeah) move your body, girl
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body
Whine up yuh waist, set di pace an' done
Bubble up yuh body weh di Banton come
You know when you set off some clothes haffi tek off
Stand up and face it don't bodda run
Girls in a frenzy, nuff 'til dem plenty
Step out and step off inna four door Bentley
I need that girl
Tell me, have you seen that girl?
Girl you know mi love cyaan' empty
Wonder who sent me
Step out ah mi house go straight ah gyal factory
I need that girl
Tell me, have you seen that girl?
Alright, good girls ah go be we bad habit
Lock mi dung fi deal wid and grab e
Good ting mi nuh left out mi tonic
Excursion, excursion
I know you ain't tryna go back home
(You can spend the night, you can spend the night)
'Cause you ain't tryna leave right now
(See it in your eyes, it's the cherry pie)
Girls in a frenzy, nuff 'til dem plenty
Step out and step off inna four door Bentley
I need that girl
Tell me, have you seen that girl?
Girl you know mi love cyaan' empty
Wonder who sent me
Step out ah mi house go straight ah gyal factory
I need that girl
Tell me, have you seen that girl?
I don't wanna know what she do, she flows
Well done hair and polish an' toes
Photo shoot pretty, fly girl strike a pose
My girl, you nuh pretty like most
Lunch in Malta, tea on di coast
Vegan meals and no pot roast
You dress only inna di finest clothes
I really love your style
Girls in a frenzy, nuff 'til dem plenty
Step out and step off inna four door Bentley
I need that girl
Tell me, have you seen that girl?
Girl you know mi love cyaan' empty
Wonder who sent me
Step out ah mi house go straight ah gyal factory
I need that girl
Tell me, have you seen that girl?
Mind reader
I saw you from behind
I thought that you were mine
And your zodiac sign was fine
Rum with a twist of lime
Cherry pie in my eyes
Convince me that you're the one
So you might as well
Whine your body (bruk it down), move your body
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body
So you might as well
Whine your body (bruk it down), move your body, girl
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body, girl
So you might as well
Whine your body (bruk it down), move your body
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body
Oh, might as well
Whine your body (bruk it down), yeah, move your body, girl
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body
Girls in a frenzy, nuff 'til dem plenty
Step out and step off inna four door Bentley
I need that girl
Tell me, have you seen that girl?
Girl you know mi love cyaan' empty
Wonder who sent me
Step out ah mi house go straight ah gyal factory
I need that girl
Tell me, have you seen that girl?
So you might as well
Whine your body (bruk it down), move your body
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body
So you might as well
Whine your body (bruk it down), move your body, girl
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body, girl
So you might as well
Whine your body (bruk it down), move your body
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body
Oh, might as well
Whine your body (bruk it down), move your body, girl
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body
The lyrics to Buju Banton's song "Cherry Pie" depict a scene where the singer is captivated by a woman he sees from behind. He initially thought that she could be someone he could have a romantic connection with, and he is intrigued by the fact that her zodiac sign matches well with his. The mention of rum with a twist of lime and cherry pie represents the indulgence and sweetness that he perceives in her. The singer is hopeful that she could be the one for him and wants her to convince him of her suitability.
The repeated lines about "whining your body" and "moving your body" are a call for the woman to dance and showcase her sensuality. This dance is seen as a way to seduce the singer and leave a lasting impression. The lyrics encourage her to let loose and express herself through her body movements. It emphasizes the idea of physical attraction and the power of dance as a form of communication and connection.
The verses also touch upon the singer's desire for a certain type of woman. He wants someone who is confident, stylish, and willing to indulge in the finer things in life. The mention of driving an expensive car and going to fancy places suggests that he is attracted to a woman who knows how to enjoy life and appreciate luxury. He wants a partner who stands out from the crowd and has a unique sense of style. The singer expresses his admiration for the woman's appearance and lifestyle choices, suggesting that he is genuinely interested in her.
Overall, "Cherry Pie" is a song about attraction and desire. It explores the initial spark of interest, the longing for physical connection, and the admiration for a woman's beauty and individuality. The lyrics use metaphors and imagery to create a vivid and enticing picture, inviting the listener to imagine the allure of this mysterious woman.
Line by Line Meaning
Mind reader
Ability to perceive and understand someone's thoughts or intentions.
I saw you from behind
I noticed you from a distance without seeing your face.
I thought that you were mine
I believed that you belonged to me or that we had a connection.
And your zodiac sign was fine
I found your astrological sign attractive or compatible with mine.
Rum with a twist of lime
Alcoholic drink made with rum and a hint of lime flavor.
Cherry pie in my eyes
Metaphorical expression of finding someone visually appealing or desirable.
Convince me that you're the one
Persuade me that you are the perfect person for me.
So you might as well
You should just go ahead and do it.
Whine your body (bruk it down), move your body
Dance sensually, gyrating your body and expressing yourself freely.
Whine your body (to di ground), move your body
Lower your body to the ground while dancing, showing off your moves.
Whine up yuh waist, set di pace an' done
Move your waist in a sensual way, leading the dance and completing it perfectly.
Bubble up yuh body weh di Banton come
Move your body in a lively and energetic way like Buju Banton's style.
You know when you set off some clothes haffi tek off
When you dance seductively, you will eventually remove some of your clothes.
Stand up and face it don't bodda run
Be confident and embrace the attention, instead of trying to escape it.
Girls in a frenzy, nuff 'til dem plenty
Many girls are excited and enthusiastic.
Step out and step off inna four door Bentley
Arrive and depart in a luxurious Bentley car.
I need that girl
I desire or want that particular girl.
Tell me, have you seen that girl?
Inform me if you have encountered or come across that girl.
Girl you know mi love cyaan' empty
Girl, you know my love is genuine and cannot be depleted.
Wonder who sent me
Curiosity about the source or reason behind my feelings or attraction.
Step out ah mi house go straight ah gyal factory
Leave my home and immediately find myself surrounded by attractive girls.
Alright, good girls ah go be we bad habit
Okay, decent girls might become our irresistible addiction.
Lock mi dung fi deal wid and grab e
Confine me to engage and take hold of me.
Good ting mi nuh left out mi tonic
Luckily, I have not forgotten my tonic (drink).
Excursion, excursion
Adventure or journey, perhaps in a romantic context.
I know you ainโt tryna go back home
I understand that you don't want to leave this place and return to your residence.
You can spend the night, you can spend the night
You have the option to stay overnight.
See it in your eyes, itโs the cherry pie
I can sense from your expression or gaze that you are enticed by the allure or charm.
I don't wanna know what she do, she flows
I am not interested in her specific actions; I am fascinated by her natural charisma.
Well done hair and polish an' toes
Her hair is styled beautifully and her nails are well-groomed.
Photo shoot pretty, fly girl strike a pose
She looks gorgeous as if posing for a photo shoot, capturing attention wherever she goes.
My girl, you nuh pretty like most
My girl, you are not just pretty like the majority; you stand out.
Lunch in Malta, tea on di coast
Enjoying a meal in Malta and having tea by the seaside.
Vegan meals and no pot roast
Eating plant-based dishes without any meat or roast dinners.
You dress only inna di finest clothes
You wear only the most exquisite and fashionable garments.
I really love your style
I genuinely admire and appreciate your fashion sense.
Lyrics ยฉ CONCORD MUSIC PUBLISHING LLC, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Mark Anthony Myrie, Pharrell Williams
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Marlon Mark
Song on repeat right now mad style.
Brklyn J9
Just discovered this song by accident and now Iโm OBSESSED!!!
A //
Wow this song is so good, itโs one of those things where youโre like โWhy hasnโt this blown up yet?โ But on the other hand, consider this a hidden gem
Cisco Smith
This song has a seriously nostalgic effect somehow.
Alexander Gregoire
The Neptunes..
J
Maybe because of the Neptunes beat??
Last Days
Buju did it again, instant hit, instant classic, ......timeless music....your catelogue is like no other Reggae or Dancehall Artist...๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฌ
David Washington
When Buju's voice first hits its literally everything ijs ๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ฅ
marlygee1
Love this how have I only just discovered this masterpiece? ๐ฑ
Tiffan Stephens
Right!! I'm mad at myself!! Straight fiyah!!๐ฅ๐ฅ