Buju Banton’s Inna Heights was released 27 years ago, on November 18, 1997.
The landmark album solidifies the Jamaican artist’s transition from a raw dancehall deejay to a mature reggae visionary. Under the Penthouse Records label, the reggae-dancehall album was voted No. 6 on the World Music Views’ Best Reggae Albums of All Time.
The album opens with “Our Father in Zion,” a solemn 28-second invocation that sets the spiritual tone. It transitions into the iconic “Hills and Valleys,” a reflective anthem about life’s struggles and perseverance. Tracks like “Destiny”and “African Pride” showcase Buju’s ability to weave uplifting messages with the raspy tone, connecting with hope and pride to listeners worldwide.
Interspersed with Inter Lingua, Inner Heights contains a series of spoken interludes that give Inna Heights a conceptual, almost theatrical feel. These interludes create seamless transitions between the songs, enhancing the listening experience.
Upon its release, it entered the Billboard Reggae Albums chart at No. 5 the week of December 13, 1997. It then climbed to its peak at No. 1 where it stayed for eight consecutive weeks.
Collaborators on the project include: Beres Hammond on “My Woman Now”, a tender ballad celebrating love and devotion.
The legendary Toots Hibbert is featured on “54/46,” a spirited reimagining of Toots and the Maytals’ classic hit.
Ras Shiloh lends his haunting vocals to “Give I Strength,” a plea for resilience in tough times.
Buju pulls on Dancehall’s playful side for “Love Dem Bad,” featuring Red Rat, while Jah Mali and King Stitch contribute their unique styles on “Mother’s Cry” and “Small Axe,” respectively.
The album’s production, spearheaded by Donovan Germain and his team at Penthouse Records, is a masterclass in balancing tradition and innovation. From the crisp live instrumentation to the warm analog recording quality, every element of Inna Heights feels meticulously crafted.
Legacy and Impact
Inna Heights marked Buju Banton’s continued evolution into a global reggae icon and is his second most streamed album on Spotify almost 30 years later, surpassing 63 million streams. Tracks like “Hills and Valleys“ and “Destiny” remain staples in Buju’s history making tours.
