Buju Banton, the revered Jamaican reggae-dancehall luminary, has sorrowfully announced the passing of his 20-year-old son, Miles Myrie. The esteemed musician, whose birth name is Mark Anthony Myrie, conveyed this heart-wrenching news via Instagram, accompanying it with a poignant photo of his son, bearing the caption “Sip papa God knows.”
This tragic occurrence was corroborated earlier in the week by Jahazeil Myrie, another son of Buju Banton, who shared the somber tidings with Jamaica’s Observer Online. Jahazeil, expressing his reluctance to divulge personal details, emphasized his brother’s virtuous character, describing him as a spiritually pure individual.
Miles, who was residing in the United States at the time of his demise, wielded a significant influence on his brother Jahazeil. Recollecting their shared upbringing, Jahazeil reminisced about his brother’s unwavering encouragement and motivation. Despite harboring aspirations of becoming a judge in his youth, Miles gravitated towards a passion for rap as he matured, leaving a lasting impression on Jahazeil.
Amongst the outpouring of condolences, a distressing video emerged featuring a woman attributing Buju Banton for his son’s tragic fate. Her emotional testimony unveiled Miles’ transient state of homelessness, during which she had provided care for him for two months. She also addressed his purported struggles with mental health issues.
In solidarity, numerous prominent figures within the reggae community extended their sympathies to the Banton family. Renowned reggae icon Beres Hammond conveyed his deepest condolences, while Sean Paul and Gramps Morgan expressed their heartfelt support and prayers for Buju and his family during this trying time.
Buju Banton’s upbringing in Kingston, Jamaica, within a large family steeped in cultural richness, contributed to his evolution as an artist. His endearing moniker, “Buju,” bestowed upon him by his mother, and the adoption of “Banton” in homage to a cherished childhood storyteller, Burro Banton, further embellish his storied legacy.
