Shaboozey Defends ‘Incredibly Talented, Hard Working’ Megan Moroney After Viral Side-Eye Moment at 2025 AMAs

Shaboozey Comes to the Defense of Megan Moroney Following Viral Side-Eye Moment at the 2025 AMAs

British musician Shaboozey recently took to social media to support fellow artist Megan Moroney after a moment that sparked widespread attention during the 2025 American Music Awards. The incident in question occurred when Shaboozey appeared skeptical after Moroney’s remark about the Carter family and country music at the awards ceremony.

Shaboozey made it clear on Instagram that his reaction at the AMAs was not directed at Moroney herself. He praised Moroney as an “incredibly talented, hard-working artist” who is making significant contributions to the country music scene. The 30-year-old musician emphasised his respect for Moroney and denounced any negative comments aimed at her in the aftermath of the event.

The viral moment at the AMAs unfolded when Shaboozey and Moroney were presenting an award together on stage. While reading from the teleprompter, Moroney mentioned the Carter family’s role in shaping country music, leading to Shaboozey’s visibly dubious reaction. The incident triggered a wave of online speculation and commentary, prompting Shaboozey to address the situation on social media.

In a post on X the following day, Shaboozey delved into the broader context of country music history, highlighting the significant contributions of Black artists to the genre. He emphasised the importance of acknowledging and celebrating the diverse influences that have shaped country music over the years.

The Carter family, often credited as pioneers in the country music realm, were themselves influenced by Black musician Lesley Riddle. Riddle played a crucial role in providing A.P. Carter with song material, underscoring the interconnectedness of different cultural and musical traditions within the genre. Shaboozey’s comments served to shed light on the rich tapestry of influences that have shaped country music as we know it today.

The incident at the AMAs and Shaboozey’s subsequent response have sparked important conversations about representation and inclusivity in the music industry. By highlighting the often overlooked contributions of Black artists to country music, Shaboozey brought attention to the need for a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of the genre’s history.

As the music community reflects on this moment, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to recognise and honour the diverse voices that have shaped country music. Shaboozey’s show of support for Megan Moroney underscores the importance of standing up for fellow artists and promoting a more inclusive and equitable music industry for all.

In a landscape where conversations about diversity and representation are increasingly vital, incidents like the one at the 2025 AMAs can serve as opportunities for growth and learning. By engaging in dialogue and amplifying underrepresented voices, the music industry can move towards a more inclusive and authentic celebration of its diverse heritage and influences.