Country singer Shaboozey has addressed his puzzling reaction during Monday’s American Music Awards, where he was presenting alongside fellow country star Megan Moroney. Viewers noticed his confused facial expression after co-presenter read that the Carter Family “basically invented” country music.
Shaboozey took to Twitter to correct his reaction, tweeting a list of pioneering Black figures in country music alongside the Carters. However, he deleted the tweet and later posted two more, focusing on the importance of acknowledging the true history of country music. He also clarified that his reaction was not directed at Moroney.
Shaboozey’s comments come as part of a broader conversation about the origins of country music, with many crediting its roots to Black musicians like Lesley Riddle and Brownie McGhee. Rissi Palmer and Roberta Lea, fellow Black country singers, have also weighed in on social media, emphasizing that the Carter Family was instrumental in shaping country music but did not invent it.
The issue highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of country music’s history, which has been shaped by various cultures and influences. Shaboozey’s star has continued to rise, with his latest song topping the charts, making his response potentially more impactful than some academics and roots musicians who bring these issues to the fore.
As representatives from Shaboozey and the AMAs declined comment, social media users have been divided on the matter. However, many are praising Shaboozey for using his platform to shed light on an important topic and promoting a more accurate understanding of country music’s rich history.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/music/news/shaboozey-amas-reaction-carter-family-invented-country-1236411263