In the given statement, Shaggy reflects on his early days when he was involved with dancehall music. He notes that during this period, dancehall did not achieve widespread recognition or commercial success. It existed mainly as an underground movement, away from the mainstream limelight and music charts.
The deeper meaning of Shaggy's words highlights the challenges faced by artists in niche genres before they gain broader acceptance. Dancehall was a subculture with its own unique sound and style that wasn't initially embraced by the wider public or industry standards. Shaggy’s remark also underscores the resilience and dedication required to cultivate an artistic community within such settings, where there might not be immediate financial rewards or universal acclaim. This perspective encourages listeners and fellow artists to appreciate the journey of music genres as they evolve from underground movements into mainstream phenomena.
Shaggy, a renowned Jamaican-Canadian reggae musician, singer, rapper, and actor, is well-known for his significant contributions to dancehall and popularizing this genre on an international scale. His quote provides insight into his early career experiences that laid the foundation for his future success in the music industry.