‘Drive Me Crazy’ turns 22

On any given night, somewhere in the world, Mr. Easy’s global hit “Drive Me Crazy” is playing.

“From arenas to TV and film placements and celebrity love, ‘Drive Me Crazy’ – 22 years later – helps define the Dancehall sound the masses love,” Caribbean entertainment publicist Flair Lindsey, of Acclaim PR, told Caribbean Life over the weekend.

Produced by Tony “CD” Kelly on the infectious “Buy Out Riddim,” “Drive Me Crazy” captures the essence of Dancehall’s golden era, Lindsey said.

“As Mr. Easy’s extraordinary vocals adorn the pulsating riddim, ‘Drive Me Crazy’ commands listeners, inspiring crowds to groove fearlessly or sing verbatim,” she said.

“I knew that there was something special about ‘Drive Me Crazy’ when I recorded it,” Mr. Easy said. “Yet, and still, I am humbled by the heights the record has reached.”

While celebrating the 22nd Anniversary of “Drive Me Crazy,” Lindsey said Mr. Easy secured its placement in the acclaimed drama series, “Grime Kids,” now on BBC Three.

She said the remarkable series channels the “coming of age journey of five Black London teenagers, navigating inner city living, societal woes, racism and more to make it in Grime music.

“Set in the late 90s, the group helps take an underground phenomenon to worldwide status,” Lindsey said.

Reggae singer Mr. Easy.Photo by Allyson Ione

“This is a big achievement for me,” Mr. Easy said. “The longevity of ‘Drive Me Crazy’ is a true testament that good music has no expiration and that Dancehall has a viable place in today’s music landscape.

“I am proud of the song and can’t think of a more rewarding TV placement than ‘Grime Kids,’” he added, disclosing that he is taking the celebration on the road, with summer shows planned for New York, Maryland, Virginia, D.C. and Oklahoma, and more to be announced.

From a slew of classics to his new banger “Dirty Dancer,” produced by DJ Baby Bang, “Mr. Easy proves timeless appeal and a knack for rocking every stage show,” Lindsey said.

“Mr. Easy’s pen game matches his stellar vocals,” she said. “The ‘Drive Me Crazy’ effect is massive.”

Lindsey said TV is not the only place the hit song is buzzing.

“In a viral video, NBA star Russell Westbrook of the LA Clippers is seen dancing and singing the Dancehall classic word for word, right down to the ad libs,” she said.

“Long live ‘Drive Me Crazy,’” Mr. Easy said. “Here’s to 22 more years of the classic. “Grateful for Russell Westbrook and all fans, DJs, fellow artists and influencers, who have supported the song.”

Lindsey said Mr. Easy is one of Dancehall’s signature voices, with staples on every DJ’s playlist.

“Whether it’s ‘Drive Me Crazy’, ‘Rain Again’, ‘Murder’, ‘Bashment Time’, ‘Silent Killer’, ‘Strangest Thing’ or one of the crooner’s many other classics, Mr. Easy leaves an indelible mark on Reggae and Dancehall music and culture,” she said.