Shaboozey Reacts to Viral AMAs Side-Eye with Truth

Shaboozey Clears the Air on Viral 2025 AMAs Side-Eye to Megan Moroney

At the 2025 American Music Awards, country stars Shaboozey and Megan Moroney took the stage to present Favorite Country Duo or Group. During their intro, Moroney said the Carter Family “basically invented country music,” prompting a noticeable side-eye and laugh from Shaboozey. The moment went viral, sparking online debate about the real origins of country music.

No strangers to the world of country music, @_megmoroney and @ShaboozeysJeans are here to present the award for Favorite Country Duo or Group! #AMAs pic.twitter.com/tntutV8u4v

— American Music Awards (@AMAs) May 27, 2025

Shaboozey later responded, clarifying that his reaction wasn’t aimed at Moroney personally but at the oversimplified statement, likely written into the teleprompter. He explained that country music’s roots go much deeper and are far more diverse than often acknowledged.

The real history of country music is about people coming together despite their differences, and embracing and celebrating the things that make us alike.

— Shaboozey (@ShaboozeysJeans) May 27, 2025

When you uncover the true history of country music, you find a story so powerful that it cannot be erased…

— Shaboozey (@ShaboozeysJeans) May 27, 2025

Google: Lesley Riddle , Steve Tartar, Harry Gay, Defoe Bailey, and The Carter Family…

— Shaboozey (@ShaboozeysJeans) May 27, 2025

He highlighted that while the Carter Family played a big role in popularizing country music, many Black musicians helped shape the genre from the start. Shaboozey named pioneers like Lesley Riddle, Arnold Schultz, and Rufus Payne—artists whose influence is often overlooked in mainstream country music history.

Shaboozey went viral at the 2025 AMAs for his side-eye after Megan Moroney credited the Carter Family with inventing country music.

Social media lit up, praising his reaction. Shaboozey later reminded everyone of legends like Lesley Riddle and DeFord Bailey. #AMAs pic.twitter.com/HMEUcT3a6w

— What's Trending (@WhatsTrending) May 27, 2025