NEW YORK – From the outset, the camaraderie between music legends Sting and Shaggy is unmistakable as they comfortably converse. When asked about the origins of their chemistry, Shaggy reveals that their mutual humor keeps them bonded.
The dynamic duo has teamed up on a slew of musical ventures, most notably their award-winning reggae record “44/876” from 2018. Additionally, they collaborated on Shaggy’s 2022 album “Com Fly Wid Mi,” where Sting guided Shaggy in venturing into new musical territory by performing Frank Sinatra tunes, diverging from his customary reggae vibe.
Their latest joint effort is “Til A Mawnin,” an energetic reggae piece that exudes the playful essence of their partnership. The track debuted on February 27. Both artists, Sting at 73 and Shaggy at 56, sat down to discuss their recent musical release and how their friendship continues to foster artistic inspiration.
When delving into the genesis of their friendship, Sting explained that sometimes you encounter someone and immediately recognize a kindred spirit, hinting that maybe it’s chemistry. He highlighted their shared curiosity for music and parallel roles as fathers and husbands.
Discussing the essence of their new song, Sting expressed the joy it brought him upon first listen, signifying a much-needed antidote during times of global strain. Shaggy added that while the track is uplifting, it also bears cultural significance. The song features a classic reggae sound and draws influence from a tune produced by the esteemed Henry “Junjo” Lawes, a trailblazer known for marrying reggae with the “toasting” style intrinsic to dancehall music.
Upon touching on how reggae enthusiasts received their new song, Shaggy shared that both the reggae and Jamaican communities have welcomed the track with open arms, with international listeners also resonating with its energy and positivity.
Sting expressed his ongoing passion for music as he relishes exploring his vocal capabilities, viewing himself as a perpetual student eager to learn from others including Shaggy, who humorously acknowledged his own evolution as a singer thanks to Sting’s mentorship.
Regarding the unique combination of their musical styles, Shaggy commented on Sting’s historical ties to Jamaican and reggae culture, emphasized through his past work with The Police. Despite their unexpected pairing, Shaggy remarked that seeing them in action erases any preconceptions of their stylistic differences, much to their own pleasant surprise.
On their music consumption habits, Sting expressed his appreciation for vinyl records and the tactile ritual associated with them, a stark contrast to today’s instant and commodified digital music experience, which lacks the depth of album credits and backstories that once enriched listeners’ connection to the music.
When questioned about their stage names versus real names, Sting revealed rarely being addressed as “Gordon,” to which Shaggy playfully suggested adopting it. Their banter concluded with Sting humorously sticking out his tongue as Shaggy mentioned his wife’s habit of using his given name, Orville, when he’s in trouble.
In a light-hearted moment, they discussed the best ambience for listening to “Til A Mawnin,” with Shaggy jokingly suggesting it involves a rolled-up item—prompting Sting to humorously point out the cliché and teasing Shaggy about never partaking in such activities.