Grammy award-winning dancehall star Buju Banton joins Nigerian Afro-dancehall star Patoranking on African Soldier, a roots reggae statement on African pride, Black liberation and the power of the continent.

The record is deeply Jamaican in its making. Produced by Jazzwad (Bounty Killer, Popcaan, Damian Marley) and recorded with live session musicians from the island (drums, bass, keys, guitar and a full horn section), the track carries the warmth and weight of authentic reggae craftsmanship.

Mix duties were handled by Grammy-winning engineer Bonzai (Mariah Carey, Nas, Chronixx).

For Patoranking, the collaboration is a return to foundation.

Reggae has been the through-line of his entire career, from his breakthrough single ‘Alubarika’ to his most recent release No Jonze.

“While working on my album, the goal for me was to go back to the music that inspired me, the sounds I grew up on,” he explains. “Reggae has been that core for me. Throughout my journey as an artiste, reggae and dancehall blended with Afrobeats has been my primary sound. African Soldier is that intentionally curated root reggae song that serves as a reminder of who we are and the power we possess as Africans and Black people all across the globe.”

On why Buju was the only choice: “Having the legendary Buju Banton, who over the years has been a great voice for Africa’s liberation, growth and unity on the continent, on this record just complements the entire message.”

The accompanying music video, directed by UAX (Tyla, Rema, Tems) and shot in New York, brings the song’s themes of unity, excellence and liberation to life. African Soldier serves as the second single from Patoranking’s forthcoming fifth studio album.