The Meaning Behind The Song: Boombastic by Shaggy
When it comes to infectious, feel-good dancehall tunes of the 90s, “Boombastic” by Shaggy certainly takes the top spot. This classic song continues to be a hit with audiences all around the world, years after its release in 1995. But beyond its catchy beats and irresistible rhythm, what’s the meaning behind this iconic tune?
The Inspiration Behind “Boombastic”
Shaggy, whose real name is Orville Richard Burrell, was born in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1968. He grew up in a tough, impoverished neighborhood, surrounded by music and the sounds of reggae, ska, and dancehall. Despite facing many challenges, Shaggy always had a love for music and began experimenting with singing and writing lyrics at an early age.
In the mid-1990s, Shaggy moved to the United States and signed with Virgin Records. It was here that he began working on his breakthrough album, “Boombastic,” which would win him his first Grammy Award. The title track, “Boombastic,” was an instant success, topping the charts in several countries and making Shaggy a household name.
But what inspired Shaggy to write “Boombastic”?
In an interview with Billboard, Shaggy said, “I was sitting in the studio, and I just started singing it. None of us could figure out what it meant, but it sounded good.” He went on to explain that the word “boombastic” was a made-up term that represented something that was big, bold, and audacious. Essentially, it was a word that embodied the larger-than-life persona that Shaggy wanted to convey in his music.
The Lyrics of “Boombastic”
So what exactly are the lyrics of “Boombastic,” and what do they mean? Let’s take a closer look:
“Mr. Boombastic, what you want is some boombastic romantic fantastic lover”
In these opening lines, Shaggy introduces the character of Mr. Boombastic, who is essentially a larger-than-life, charismatic figure. The lyrics suggest that what Mr. Boombastic can offer is a “boombastic” romantic experience, which is both extravagant and unforgettable.
“Shaggy, certified lover, no ducky, yah, I’m ya man, I’ma roam”
Here, Shaggy references himself, establishing his identity as a “certified lover.” He also addresses his romantic partner as “ducky,” which is a term of endearment. Shaggy then declares that he is her man and that he will roam wherever he needs to go to make her happy.
“Original lover, lover, mm, yes, right, uh”
In this line, Shaggy once again reinforces his identity as a romantic figure, describing himself as an “original lover.” The “mm” and “uh” sounds are simply ad-libs that add flavor to the song and make it more dynamic.
“Gal ya know seh dat ya got di twist ah mi hips, seh dat ya know mi sweet”
Here, Shaggy praises his partner’s awareness of his abilities and charm. He suggests that she has noticed the way he moves his hips and knows that he’s sweet and romantic.
“So when me hug up wit’ me girl, dem me no deal wit’ defea”
In these lines, Shaggy is essentially saying that when he is with his girl, he doesn’t deal with defeat. He is confident and powerful, and his love is unstoppable.
The Legacy of “Boombastic”
“Boombastic” remains one of Shaggy’s most popular songs, and for good reason. Its catchy beats, irresistible rhythm, and upbeat lyrics continue to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. It has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials, and has even been sampled by other artists.
But beyond its commercial success, “Boombastic” has left an enduring legacy on the music industry. It redefined the dancehall genre and introduced a new, more globally accepted sound to the world. Shaggy’s unique style and charisma continue to inspire artists and fans alike, and his influence can be felt across multiple genres and musical styles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Boombastic” by Shaggy is a true classic, both in terms of its commercial success and its cultural impact. Its catchy beats and irresistible rhythm continue to delight audiences all around the world, years after its initial release. But beyond its fun, upbeat vibe, “Boombastic” also represents an important moment in the evolution of dancehall music, and a testament to the creativity and artistry of its creator.
