Homophobic Reggae Star Signs Lyrics Ban

One of Reggae music’s most talked about performers, Buju Banton, has agreed to stop using homophobic lyrics in his songs.

Banton will bring to an end a three year campaign against his lyrics by signing the 'Reggae Compassionate Act' which has been founded by the gay rights campaign group Stop Murder Music, later today.

The Reggae star, whose lyrics include the advocating of shooting gay men in the song ‘Boom Bye Bye,’ will join a host of artists, including Beenie Man, who have signed the agreement following increased pressure from Gay Rights campaigners across the world.

By agreeing to the deal, reports The Guardian, Banton will agree not to make homophobic statements in public, release new homophobic songs or authorise the re-release of previous homophobic songs.

Part of the act states: "There's no space in the music community for hatred and prejudice, including no place for racism, violence, sexism or homophobia."

Despite gay rights campaigners celebrating the news, DJ Kemist – also known as Mark Richards - from the record label Xtremix records, said that it doesn’t mean Banton will change his views.

"I can see why he's done it,” said Richards. “He doesn't want to jeopardise his whole career over just a few songs. But it doesn't mean it's going to change any of his opinions."