If you’ve tuned into the radio lately, you’ll recognize the name “Shaggy” and the chart-topping album “Hot Shot.” Born Orville Richard Burrell on Oct. 22, 1968, in Kingston, Jamaica, he was nicknamed “Shaggy” by his friends — after the cartoon dog from “Scooby Doo.” While growing up, Shaggy was a fan of reggae, ska, dancehall, and rhythm and blues. Shaggy left Jamaica for the United States when he turned 18, joining his mother in Brooklyn. Upon arriving in New York, he began actively pursuing a music career. He found success quickly. Two singles, “Mampie” and “Big Up,” hit No. 1 on the New York reggae charts. After a tough year attempting to find work, Shaggy joined the Marine Corps in 1988. Two years later, he found himself in the Gulf War. The experience sobered him, and Shaggy committed himself to his music.
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