Shaggy

Early Life

Orville Richard Burrell, known professionally as Shaggy, was born on October 22, 1968, in Kingston, Jamaica. At the age of 18, he moved to New York City with his mother, where he later enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on April 12, 1988. During his service, he honed his unique "toasting" vocal style, which would become a hallmark of his music. He was discharged on May 4, 1992, having achieved the rank of Lance Corporal.

Career

Shaggy's music career took off in the early 1990s with his first hit, "Oh Carolina," a dancehall remake of a ska classic. His breakthrough came with the 1995 hit "Boombastic," which became synonymous with a popular Levi's commercial. The success of his 2000 album "Hot Shot," featuring chart-topping singles like "It Wasn't Me" and "Angel," solidified his status as a reggae superstar. Over the years, he has collaborated with various artists and producers, earning two Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album.

Personal Life

In 2014, Shaggy married his long-term partner, Rebecca Packer, and they have three daughters together. He also has two sons from a previous relationship, one of whom, Richard O'Neil Burrell, is known as the rapper Robb Banks. Shaggy is also known for his philanthropic efforts, notably raising over $1 million for the Bustamante Children's Hospital in Jamaica through his "Shaggy and Friends" project. In 2022, he was honored with a Doctor of Fine Arts degree from Brown University for his contributions to music and charity.