Shaboozey’s reaction at the 2025 American Music Awards has ignited a larger discussion about the history of country music. While presenting the award for Favorite Country Duo or Group alongside Megan Moroney, the Nigerian-American artist gave a noticeable side-eye after Moroney stated that the Carter Family “basically invented country music.” The moment quickly went viral, with fans dissecting the subtle yet powerful response.
The following day, Shaboozey took to social media to clarify his reaction and provide insight into the genre’s overlooked history. On X, he posted:
“When you uncover the true history of country music, you find a story so powerful that it cannot be erased…”
In a follow-up tweet, he added:
“The real history of country music is about people coming together despite their differences, and embracing and celebrating the things that make us alike.”
His comments highlight the contributions of Black musicians who played a foundational role in shaping country music. While the Carter Family is widely credited with popularizing the genre, their sound was heavily influenced by Lesley Riddle, a Black guitarist who helped A.P. Carter collect songs in the early 1900s.
Beyond Riddle, country music owes much to pioneers like DeFord Bailey, the first Black artist to perform at the Grand Ole Opry, and Rufus “Tee Tot” Payne, who mentored Hank Williams. Gus Cannon, a multi-instrumentalist, influenced Johnny Cash, while Charley Pride broke barriers as one of the few Black artists to achieve mainstream success in country music. More recently, Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album paid tribute to Linda Martell, the first Black woman to release a country album, further cementing the legacy of Black artists in the genre.
Video Courtesy of Entertainment Tonight:
Shaboozey’s AMA moment joins a growing movement of Black country artists reclaiming space and rewriting the narrative. His response serves as a reminder that country music’s roots run deeper than mainstream history often acknowledges, and that its true origins deserve recognition.
