Banton was one of 15 children, born in the poor Salt Lane neighborhood of Kingston. He began DJing and toasting at the age of 13. He made his first recording in 1986, a single called "The Ruler." He had his first major hit in 1991 with "Love Mi Browning," but would be battling controversy soon thereafter for recording "Boom Bye Bye," a viciously homophobic track that seemingly advocated violence against gay men.

By 1995, Banton has converted to Rastafarianism and was exhibiting a greater social awareness and maturity. It was that year that he released the album considered by many fans and critics to be his masterpiece, 'Til Shiloh.

In 1999, Banton recorded with punk band Rancid and was subsequently signed to their label Epitaph's offshoot Anti. Since that time, Banton released a mainstream-friendly, cross-over album, but was dissatisfied with the support he received from major labels stateside. In 2005, he released Rasta Got Soul on his own label Gargamel Music.