Unexpected Reggae Fusion That Won the World Over
On this day in 2018, April 20, English rock icon Sting and a Jamaican dancehall legend Shaggy released their collaborative album 44/876. The joint album by the duo managed to defy expectations, win a Grammy, and create a cross-cultural moment in modern reggae history.
The album’s title 44/876 is a nod to the international calling codes of the UK (+44) and Jamaica (876), signifying the cross-continental partnership between Sting, known for his work with The Police and a prolific solo career, and Shaggy, the voice behind early 2000s classics like “It Wasn’t Me” and “Angel.”
Released via A&M, Interscope, and Cherrytree Records, the 12-track LP was recorded in Ranch Studios and Sear Sound in NYC, pulling from roots reggae, pop, and dancehall with a polished studio touch.
“Don’t Make Me Wait” – A Grammy-Winning Spark
The lead single “Don’t Make Me Wait” dropped in January 2018 and set the tone with a warm, lover’s rock feel. While some critics questioned the duo’s chemistry, the song found fans quickly. The LP, went on to win Best Reggae Album at the 61st Grammy Awards in 2019—Shaggy’s second Grammy award and Sting 17th.
It got a metacritic score of 49, and some critics called the album “unnecessary” while others said it was “unexpectedly fun.” Yet, fans around the world responded positively. It hit #1 in Germany, reached #2 in France, and charted in the Top 10 in several European countries, including the UK, where it marked Sting’s first Top 10 album since Sacred Love in 2003 and Shaggy’s first since Hot Shot in 2000.
The album’s deluxe edition, released in December 2018, featured the energetic unreleased track “Skank Up (Oh Lawd),” two new versions of “Gotta Get Back My Baby,” and five acoustic performances recorded in Paris. These additions gave the album new life and added depth to the project’s live reggae ambitions.
Cultural Bridge, Not Gimmick
What made 44/876 so resonant wasn’t just the names on the cover—it was the genuine affection both artists showed for reggae culture and each other. Sting, who had dabbled in reggae since his Police days, approached the project with respect, while Shaggy brought authenticity and charisma. Together, they made an album that felt like a sunny, genre-blending celebration.
The duo has toured extensively, performed everywhere from NPR’s Tiny Desk to stadiums across the U.S. and Europe.
The released a single “Til A Mawnin” one month ago from Shaggy’s upcoming solo album.
