International Dancehall/Reggae Ambassador Shaggy is a student of the music. Despite having a well-decorated music career, he always salutes those who have paved the way for him and others to go. It’s not hard to know when you listen to his catalogue as he finds ways to mold a classic tune into something for the new generation to enjoy. Recently, he had a chat with Kadia Francis of Jamaicans.com, and he had a lot to share.
In his new Interview with Jamaicans.com, Shaggy spoke on the significance of the late Producer Henry “Junjo” Lawes, his many contributions to the culture, being a foundation for Dancehall, and how Shaggy pays tribute to his work with the release of his new “Badman Riddim” Compilation. The new Riddim was previewed in 2024 with singles from Spice (who he shared a great deal about), Junior Cat, and Shaggy and Olaf Blackwood, and is set to be fully released later this year. Shaggy also spoke on his “Mr. Symphonic” project with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and how important it was to do something like this to expand on his creativity. He also shared his views on the newer crop of Dancehall Artists, name dropping a few who have shown up on his radar, and highlighted how necessary it is to stand out as an Artist. He also emphasized the importance of musical foundations, and there should be more to learn from previous generations, to assist in developing future generations. “Mr. Boombastic” shared plenty in this Interview, and listeners will be intrigued and motivated, especially when they learn how some of his hits were just sitting on hard drives before being released.
Catch Shaggy on May 17 with Lila Ike at The Issa Trust Foundation’s 20th Anniversary “For The Children” Event at Couples Sans Souci, Ocho Rios, St. Ann.
Shaggy’s full Interview with Kadia Francis can be found here.
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