Caribbean Music Report 2024: Buju Banton Makes History with Highest-Grossing Reggae Tour

Grammy Award-winning reggae artist Buju Banton’s “The Overcomer Tour” has officially become the highest-grossing solo headlining reggae tour of the 21st century. With an average ticket price of USD$300 across seven arenas with 19,000-seat capacities in the U.S. and Canada, the tour achieved impressive success.

Despite Ticketmaster canceling shows in six cities due to low ticket sales, Buju Banton completed nine capacity shows from July to November, averaging between 8,000 and 15,000 tickets sold per venue, including two consecutive sold-out performances at UBS Arena as part of the Long Walk to Freedom Tour, according to data obtained by World Music Views. The Overcomer Tour will conclude with a final show on November 17 at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.

At Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena, Buju made his first Canadian headlining appearance in 15 years, with ticket prices reaching as high as US$1,449 and starting at US$191—setting a record for the highest average ticket prices for a solo reggae act in Canada.

Other than Buju’s remarkable comeback success, the popularity of Jamaican reggae artists continues to soar, with fans worldwide eager to experience the culture and music live. In 2024, several prominent reggae and dancehall artists toured internationally, covering between 10 to 21 dates in smaller theatre venues and festivals. 

Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 average ticket prices to see Jamaican reggae acts on tour in 2024, based on data from Ticketmaster. 

1. Buju Banton – $300
   Buju Banton leads the list with the highest average ticket price at $300. Premium tickets for Banton’s “Long Walk To Freedom” and “The Overcoming” Tours went for as high as US$8500. The Latter being the highest solo headlining grossing reggae tour of all time in North America. His powerful performances and catalog of iconic songs make him a top draw, as fans eagerly pay a premium to see this reggae legend in person.

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2. 

   Damian & Stephen Marley Traffic Jam Tour- $100
   Reggae royalty, the Marley brothers Damian and Stephen, command $100 per ticket on average for their Traffic Jam Tour. Their shows celebrate the legacy of Bob Marley while showcasing their unique styles, bridging classic reggae and contemporary sounds.

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3. 

   Beres Hammond “Forever Giving Thanks Tour” – $100
   Known for his soulful voice and romantic reggae ballads, Beres Hammond also commands $100 per ticket for his “Forever Giving Thanks Tour” which ran from April 13 to August 25, 2024. His timeless appeal and loyal fanbase ensure strong ticket sales, especially for older audiences drawn to his classic hits.

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4. Ziggy Marley “Circle Of Peace Tour” – $90
   Following the box office success of the “Bob Marley: One Love” move Ziggy Marley hit the road with his “Circle Of Peace Tour.” Carrying the torch of his father’s legacy while infusing his own musical influences, at an average ticket price of $90, his performances attract reggae enthusiasts of all ages.

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5. Sean Paul “Greatest Tour”- $85
   Dancehall icon Sean Paul went on tour for the first time in decades after doing only spot dates for several years. The top streaming pop act draws in both reggae and pop fans with his high-energy performances. Averaging $85 per ticket, he remains one of the most accessible reggae acts, appealing to a broad, international audience.

   

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6. Shaggy – $80
   Known for his hits across reggae and pop, Shaggy teamed up with TLC and hit the road, performing at several festivals. He even did an impromptu date with Sting in February. Shows cost to see Shaggy averaged $80 per ticket.

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7. Stephen Marley (Solo) – $80
   In addition to his performances with Damian, Stephen Marley’s solo shows “Old Soul Unplugged” followed the release of his fifth studio album “Old Soul.” He also average $80 per ticket. His individual sets allow fans to experience his unique interpretations of reggae, often blending traditional sounds with modern influences.

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8. Alborosie “Legendary Tour” – $80
   Italian-Jamaican artist Alborosie, a popular figure in the reggae scene, has tickets averaging $80 as he trekked around the world on the “Legendary Tour.”  His unique style and dedication to reggae’s roots and dub music have earned him a strong following internationally.

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9. Marley Brothers “Legacy Tour” – $70
   The Marley family’s continued impact on reggae is evident, as fans pay $70 on average to see the Marley Brothers perform on the Legacy Tour. Their shows promoted by Live Nation feature a collective celebration of Bob Marley’s legacy, drawing a diverse audience.

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10. Shenseea – $40
    Shenseea, a rising star in dancehall and reggae fusion, rounds out the list with an average ticket price of $40. Her accessible pricing attracts younger audiences and fans interested in the evolving sounds of Jamaican music.Honorable mentions to Romain Virgo, Burnin Spear and Tarrus Riley whose embarked on festival and spot dates at an average price of $35 per ticket.

    

Reggae Audience Consumption 

According to the Luminate Year-End Report of 2023, released on Wednesday January 10, 2024, 33% of millennials who appreciate Reggae and Afrobeats actually prefer attending concerts and other entertainment events linked to the 

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