At the recent American Music Awards, country star Shaboozey caught everyone’s attention with a puzzled side-eye and chuckle when fellow presenter Megan Moroney read a line claiming that the Carter Family “basically invented country music.” Fans quickly noticed his reaction, and now Shaboozey is speaking out to explain what was going through his mind during that moment.
Why Did Shaboozey React That Way?
Shaboozey clarified on social media that he wasn’t tipsy or joking, but reacting to a deeper issue about the history of country music. He pointed followers to some key figures in the genre’s roots like Lesley Riddle, Steve Tarter, Harry Gay, and DeFord Bailey, emphasizing how Black artists have been foundational in shaping country music alongside the Carter Family.
He tweeted, “When you uncover the true history of country music, you find a story so powerful that it cannot be erased.” He also highlighted the unity in country’s real history: “It’s about people coming together despite their differences, and celebrating the things that make us alike.”
Shaboozey Supports Megan Moroney and Clears Up Misunderstandings
After seeing some negative comments directed at Moroney, Shaboozey made sure to clear the air. He praised her as an “incredibly talented, hard-working artist” and said his reaction was not directed at her but at the script itself.
Their moment on stage was to present the award for favorite country duo or group, and apart from that brief pause, the presentation went smoothly.
The Bigger Picture: Recognizing Black Roots in Country Music
The Carter Family is often credited with helping popularize country music in its early days, but many historians and artists now stress that the genre’s origins are more complex. Black musicians like Lesley Riddle played vital roles in creating what was first called “hillbilly” music, which evolved into country.
Rhiannon Giddens and Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” album have helped shine light on these roots recently. For many viewers, the AMAs’ line seemed to ignore this important context, especially since the tribute also mentioned Charley Pride, one of the few Black superstars in country music history before Shaboozey.
Other Voices Join the Conversation
Rissi Palmer, a respected Black country artist, shared a video explaining the deep Black roots behind country music and questioned the AMAs script. She pointed out how European immigrants, enslaved Africans, Indigenous peoples, and others all contributed to the genre’s rich heritage.
Nashville singer Roberta Lea echoed these sentiments, noting how Black presence in country music often challenges outdated narratives.
Shaboozey’s Rising Influence in Country Music
Shaboozey himself has become a major figure in the genre, especially with his 2024 hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” which topped both country airplay and Billboard Hot 100 charts. His visibility and success give his words extra weight in conversations about country music’s history and inclusivity.
The dialogue sparked by this moment at the AMAs shows how important it is to recognize and honor all the voices that helped build country music as we know it today.
