Shaggy Gives Rationale for Rumored Rejection of Rihanna Collaborative Project

During an interview with VLADTV, Shaggy took a minute to state his position on a 2020 rumor. In 2020 rumor had it Shaggy turned down an opportunity to work with Rihanna. The rumors were based on a former interview.
Basis of the Rumor
In 2020 fans were waiting for Rihanna to drop a new release. At the time, Rihanna’s last project was four years prior. So, her fans were hyped about any mention of a forthcoming RiRi project. The air was thick with whispers the Barbadian Star had something in the works. So, Shaggy’s mention of an upcoming Rihanna project in his interview drew attention. And the idea of “Mr Fantastic’s” refusal to be on a project with Rihanna made him a hot topic. Shaggy went viral.
What Shaggy Said.
This rumor dates back to 2020. According to Metro50, at the time. the artist said
“I didn’t need to audition to be on the record. So I’ll leave that to younger guys. But what I hear, it should be good.”
Undoubtedly, there is a lot one can derive from Shaggy’s statement. Regardless of the artist’s actual intent, for some, the takeaway is a refusal to collaborate with RiRi., And it doesn’t take much for comments to be misconstrued. Rumors have been built on less. And in 2020, it wasn’t on Shaggy’s list of priorities to clear the air.
Shaggy Gives His Side
Now the performer is letting the people know what went down. In his VLADTV interview, Shaggy admits to being approached by Rihanna’s management team. According to the artist, the team asked him to do some collaborative work. However, both parties never reached an agreement on the terms. Shaggy told VLADTV they wanted him to pen some songs and send them in. He felt differently. In Shaggy’s words
“For us to get the best, it would be best if we could be in the studio together and vibe.”
At the time, the artist could not comply with those terms. So, there was no collaboration.
A Counterpoint
There are two sides to every story. Reportedly, In the same year, 2020, representatives from RiRi’s team told a different story. According to the reps, the request to work on Rihanna’s project came from Shaggy. In actuality, there was no request for anyone to audition. According to a source, this is what was said,
“We are working on an album, not a talent show, so why would require Shaggy or any other artist to audition?
The representatives went on to say that the project was virtually complete at the time of Shaggy’s inquisition. After Shaggy’s asked, they did suggest “Mr. Bombastic” send in some material, but he chose not to.
What Now?
It’s been a few years since the rumors. Of course, things fizzle out eventually. So, for some, Shaggy’s revelation gives them a lot to consider. For others, it is what it is. Whatever the case, Shaggy did not collaborate with Rihanna. And as we also know, the project never saw release. So whether a Shaggy and Rihanna collaboration is something fans will regret is something we will never know.

Written by Renae Richardson