“Informer” is one of Canada’s most recognizable songs of the ’90s. Recorded by Toronto reggae artist Snow, the track became a No. 1 hit in the U.S., Australia, Denmark and many other countries.
It was a divisive song and drew criticism for its “incomprehensible” lyrics, but whether you loved it or hated it, Snow and his smash hit are part of our country’s musical history. It also served as a positive turning point in the artist’s life, helping him find an escape from a life of crime.
Crime itself is what first inspired “Informer,” actually. While some laughed off the song’s lyrics, Snow was actually channeling his frustrations with the criminal justice system into lyrics like: “Tective man a say, say daddy me Snow me stab someone down.” (Snow says he never stabbed anyone during this incident.)
Watch below as Snow looks back at the success of “Informer” and breaks down the real meaning behind the song.
For 34-year old Torontonian Darrin O’Brien, better known as Snow, maintaining success stateside has been tricky. His ’93 hit “Informer” scorched up the U.S. singles charts, but he’s gotten the cold shoulder ever since. With a new album dropping this spring, Snow sat down with us to speak on drinking, deportation, and his unexpected comeback album.
Few singers can claim to have watched their careers take off while serving an eight-month jail sentence for attacking a man with a crowbar, but that`s where Toronto-born toaster Darrin ‘Snow’ O`Brien found himself on the eve of the release of his debut single Informer.