Shaggy Biography: Children, Net Worth, Height, Parents, Songs, Age, Wife, Albums, Awards, Nationality

Orville Richard Burrell also known as Shaggy is a legendary Jamaican-American reggae musician, singer, songwriter, and DJ celebrated for his distinctive voice, dancehall-infused pop hits, and crossover success in the 1990s and 2000s.

With global anthems like “It Wasn’t Me,” “Boombastic,” and “Angel,” he became one of the best-selling reggae artists in history, selling over 40 million records and blending infectious rhythms with humorous, relatable lyrics.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Orville Richard Burrell
• Stage Name: Shaggy
• Born: October 22, 1968
• Age: 57 years old
• Birthplace: Kingston, Jamaica
• Nationality: Jamaican-American
• Ethnicity: Jamaican
• Occupation: Reggae Musician, Singer, Songwriter, DJ
• Height: 179 cm
• Religion: Christianity
• Parents: Mr. and Mrs. Burrell
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Rebecca Packer
• Children: Five
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $14 million USD

Early Life and Education

Shaggy was born on October 22, 1968, in Kingston, Jamaica. He was raised by his parents Mr. and Mrs. Burrell in a modest family environment in the capital city, where he spent his early years before emigrating.

At age 18, he moved to New York City with his mother to join her in Brooklyn, seeking better opportunities.

Growing up in Jamaica exposed him to reggae and dancehall culture from a young age, shaping his musical style. He attended Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn after the move. Details about siblings are not publicly available. His ethnicity is Jamaican.

His religion is Christianity. Specific higher education is not widely documented, as he pursued music and military service early on rather than formal academic studies.

Career

Shaggy began his music journey in New York’s dancehall scene, recording early tracks while serving in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1988 to 1992, including during Operation Desert Storm.

After his service, he signed a record deal and released his debut album Pure Pleasure in 1993, featuring the hit “Oh Carolina.”

His breakthrough came with Boombastic (1995) and the diamond-selling Hot Shot (2000), which included global smashes “It Wasn’t Me” and “Angel.”

He has released over a dozen albums, collaborated with artists like Sting (on the Grammy-winning 44/876), and maintained a prolific career with tours, philanthropy through the Shaggy Make a Difference Foundation, and honors like Jamaica’s Order of Distinction.

His enduring appeal lies in his charismatic delivery and genre-blending innovation.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @diplomat_shaggy
• YouTube Channel: Shaggy

Personal Life

Shaggy, 57. His height is 179 cm. He married Rebecca Packer in 2014 after a long-term relationship. The couple has three daughters together, and Shaggy has two sons from a previous relationship, including rapper Richard O’Neil Burrell (Robb Banks).

Family remains central to his life, with his wife co-producing charity events. He keeps much of his private life low-key, focusing on fatherhood, music, and philanthropy while residing between Jamaica and the United States.

His military service and Jamaican roots continue to influence his grounded perspective.

Net Worth

Shaggy’s net worth is estimated at $14 million USD. His income primarily comes from album sales exceeding 40 million copies worldwide; streaming royalties from classic hits; live tours and performances; collaborations and features; brand endorsements; and charitable initiatives that also generate revenue through partnerships.