The chemistry of friendship between Sting and Shaggy can be felt through their featured hits, which makes it successful. Producing fun music in sync with both artists’ vibes and energy, complementing each other, Shaggy. Shaggy says that their ability to make each other laugh is what gives them chemistry.
They have worked together on several projects, such as Shaggy’s “Com Fly Wid Mi” (2022) and their Grammy-winning reggae album “44/876” (2018), in which Sting urged Shaggy to perform Frank Sinatra songs rather than his typical reggae/dancehall repertoire.
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Sting and Shaggy’s latest collaboration, “Til A Mawnin,” released on February 27, showcases their humorous side. In a recent interview, they discussed the song, their friendship, and mutual creative inspiration. Sting recognized Shaggy as a kindred spirit and fellow music student upon meeting him. Their bond was strengthened by shared roles as husbands, fathers, and good citizens.
When questioned about the concept and direction of the new song, Sting describes the new song as joyful and necessary in today’s fractured world. He believes music should act as medicine, bringing smiles and joy. Shaggy adds that the track has a deeper cultural undertone, rooted in the riddim track from Yellowman’s “I’m Getting Married,” produced by Henry “Junjo” Lawes. This track is significant in the dancehall genre and resonates deeply with the Jamaican inner-city culture.
The duo was asked about how reggae fans will receive the track, they responded: The reggae community and Jamaican communities have embraced the track wholeheartedly. Shaggy further noted, “There’s a lot of international eyes on it and ears on it. You know, people are really sending their comments in and you could feel it. There’s an energy with this record that we haven’t felt in a long time, and it’s just sunshine and joy.”
Sting brought a different vocal and twist to the song that is quite different than what fans are accustomed to, he expressed his efforts through his passion for the art of music and friendship. He stated, “Absolutely. I — like him — am a student of music. I will be until my dying day and I’m here to learn. So I could teach him something and he can teach me something.” Shaggy humorously noting that he has become a singer thanks to Sting’s influence.
When questioned about Sting’s adaptation of the style of music and his method of infusing that essence into the song, Shaggy praises his energy and cultural background, highlighting the reggae undertones in Sting’s music from his time with The Police and his experiences in Notting Hill’s West Indian community. Despite seeming like an odd pairing on paper, Shaggy and Sting’s collaboration works surprisingly well, both on stage and in their music.
‘How do you listen to music now?’ the duo was questioned. Shaggy embraces the digital age, while Sting prefers the ritualistic experience of playing vinyl records. Sting misses the physicality and information that came with albums, feeling that modern music has become commodified.
When asked about the frequency in which fans called the artists by their real name, it was revealed that Sting is rarely called by his real name, Gordon, while Shaggy’s wife calls him Orville, especially when he’s in trouble. Shaggy jokes about calling Sting by his real name, adding a playful touch to their friendship.
‘What is the best way to listen to songs?’ Many may have different methods to soak in soft felt and calming tunes that promote relaxation or even hard rock that gets your blood pumping. However, Shaggy humorously suggests listening to the song “with something rolled up,” while Sting dismisses it as a cliché, noting that Shaggy has never smoked weed. Their banter adds a lighthearted element to their dynamic, showcasing their camaraderie.
The interview captures the essence of Sting and Shaggy’s friendship, their musical collaboration, and the joy they aim to bring through their new song.
