Shaboozey is clearing the air.
The “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” singer came to the defense of Megan Moroney, pushing back on the criticism the “Tennessee Orange” singer has received since the 2025 American Music Awards where he seemingly rolled his eyes at his co-presenter when she said The Carter Family, “basically invented country music” while on stage.
“Just want to clear something up: my reaction at the AMAs had nothing to do with Megan Moroney!” Shaboozey commented on her May 26 Instagram post about the award show. “She’s an incredibly talented, hard-working artist who’s doing amazing things for country music and I’ve got nothing but respect for her.”
“I’ve seen some hateful comments directed at her today, and that’s not what this moment was about,” he added. “Let’s not twist the message—she is amazing and someone who represents the country community in the highest light!”
Prior to his defense of Megan, Shaboozey had encouraged followers to dive into the history of country music, highlighting several Black artists like Lesley Riddle, Steve Tartar, Harry Gay, Defoe Bailey, including those the Carter family had previously credited for influencing their sound.
“When you uncover the true history of country music,” he wrote on X, May 27. “You find a story so powerful that it cannot be erased.”
However, Shaboozey ended his comments by amplifying the purpose of the genre.
“The real history of country music is about people coming together despite their differences,” he explained in his final message. “And embracing and celebrating the things that make us alike.”
Keep reading to look back at the best red carpet moments from the 2025 AMAs…
Renee Rapp
There’s no such thing as talking too much about the Sex Lives of College Girls alum’s AMAs look.
Kendra Scott & Zac Brown
Instead of jeans, the country artist wore a suit that fit just right.
Benson Boone
The singer was his own beautiful thing at the AMAs.
Jon Batiste
The artist took his look to a higher level in his tuxedo and bow tie.
Shaboozey
Fans of the singer almost started a riot over his plaid, country-inspired look.
Ciara
The singer knows how to 1, 2 step into a perfect look.
Machine Gun Kelly
The “Emo Girl” singer was all smiles ahead of the AMAs.
Wayne Brady & Maile Masako
The actor took his daughter along as his plus one for the evening.
Nora Fatehi
The artist and actress stunned in her sequined, animal print look.
Rod Stewart
The musical icon was sailing along the AMAs purple carpet.
Heidi Klum
The model walked the carpet in a bold, all black look.
Nikki Glaser
The comedian’s outfit hit the perfect note.
Tiffany Haddish
The actress was a vision in blue.
Dan + Shay
The musical duo’s looks left the crowd speechless.
Becky G
The 28-year-old stunned in a cheetah-print strapless number.
David Guetta & Jessica Ledon
The DJ and his girlfriend coordinated in all black looks.
Jeff Beacher
The LA Showman strikes a pose in all black.
Jordan Chiles
The Olympian’s look deserved gold.
Lainey Wilson
The country star channeled wildflowers for her purple carpet look.
Dylan Efron
The Traitors star looked faithful as ever in his green suit.
Spencer Pratt & Heidi Montag
The Hills alums struck a pose on the purple carpet.
Alex Warren
This look was anything but ordinary.
Megan Moroney
Fans of the country singer won’t need caller ID to recognize the artist on the carpet.
Montana Tucker
The 32-year-old stunned in her beige gown.
Alix Earle
The influencer—and soon to be Dancing with the Stars contestant—donned a
Emilio Estefan & Gloria Estefan
The couple stunned as Gloria returtned to the AMAs for the first time in 30 years.
Tucker Halpern & Sophie Hawley-Weld
There weren’t any purple hats in sight, but the Sofi Tukker duo were still primed for dancing on the people.
Pepa
The rapper—real name Sandra Denton—painted a mighty good picture on the purple carpet.
Rebecca Black
Even though it’s not Friday, the artist arrived in style and ready to get down.
Kehlani
It was after hours, and the singer rocked her semi-sheer, sparkly mini dress.
