Shaggy Exclusive: “The Driving I’ve Seen in the World Is in India” — Reggae Icon Talks Music, Culture, and His New Album
Shaggy Exclusive: Reggae Star Talks India, Music Culture, and His New Album ‘Lottery’
International reggae–dancehall artist Shaggy, known for global hits since the 1990s, has opened up about his deep connection with India, his creative process, and his upcoming album. The Jamaican–American musician recently released “Boom Body” in collaboration with Akon and Aidonia, marking another vibrant entry in his long-running career.
⭐ “Music Is My Only Job” — How Shaggy Stays Connected to the Young Audience
Shaggy says the secret behind staying relevant for decades is staying connected to cultural shifts.
“I keep my finger on the pulse of things. Music is my only job. I may dabble here and there, but I love what music represents to culture,” he shared.
“Part of staying cool and fresh comes from the cultural shift that music creates.”
Despite spending over 30 years in the industry, the artist says he never allows legacy pressure to hold him back.
“Some artistes get scared to put out new music because of their past work. I’m the opposite. Every major artiste has more flops than hits — but one hit erases all your flops.”
⭐ Shaggy on India: Food, Weddings… and Wild Traffic
Shaggy has toured India since the 90s — “From the time Mumbai was Bombay,” he laughs — and says the country’s culture keeps drawing him back.
He is especially fond of Indian food:
“I’ve had some of the best curries in the world here.”
But he also admits that getting around can be an adventure in itself.
“I’ve performed at quite a few Indian weddings. They’re some of the most elaborate I’ve ever seen.
But the crazy part is getting to the wedding — I’ve never seen traffic like that.
The craziest driving I’ve seen in the world is in India. No country can top that.”
⭐ His Son Robb Banks Immerses Himself in Indian Culture
Shaggy also spoke proudly about his son Robb Banks, who recently performed in India during a major music festival.
“He wore the long shirt men wear — the kurta — on stage. He really indulged in the culture. He’s always doing crazy stuff, and I love that about him.”
⭐ Life as an Independent Artist
Shaggy says that working independently gives him creative freedom, even without massive commercial budgets.
“Being independent means I can move at my own pace. I don’t feel trapped by expectations.
My goal is simple — make songs that the local DJ can play and keep people dancing.”
The artist also reflected on how quickly fame can fade:
“My kids don’t know who Michael Jackson or Elvis Presley is. They may know Bob Marley because that’s part of Jamaican culture. But eventually, everything fades.”
⭐ New Album ‘Lottery’ Coming in March
Shaggy confirmed that his next album, “Lottery,” will be released in March, featuring collaborations with:
- Robin Thicke
- Anthony Hamilton
- Sting
- And several others
On his work with Akon, he shared:
“With Akon, you know instantly which track will be a banger. It takes just one listen.”
Nirmal News brings you the latest breaking news, India news, world news, technology updates, sports highlights, entertainment stories, business insights, health & wellness guides, astrology predictions, education updates, Amazon deals and trending featured articles. Stay informed with trusted, real-time news coverage.
Nirmal News publishes information strictly for general informational and educational purposes. We do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of published content.