Nigerian-American country music star Shaboozey, also known as Collins Obinna Chibueze, did not win any awards at the 58th Country Music Awards (CMAs) held in Nashville, Tennessee. Despite breaking records and delivering a standout performance, Shaboozey left without a win. Dressed in a mint green suit with his name hand-painted on the back, he was one of three black artists nominated this year. He was up for New Artist of the Year and Single of the Year for his hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”
Beyoncé, who made history as the first Black woman to top both the US Billboard 200 and Billboard Country Albums chart with her debut album “Cowboy Carter,” did not receive any nominations this year. Shaboozey’s song “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” gained international success, reaching number one in several countries and maintaining the top position on the US Billboard Hot 100 for 18 weeks. Despite its success, the award for Single of the Year went to Chris Stapleton for “White Horse.”
The event was not without awkward moments. Hosts Luke Bryan, Peyton Manning, and Lainey Wilson attempted a segue into Shaboozey’s performance that did not resonate well with the audience. There was also a controversial comment from producer Trent Willmon, which added to the social media uproar. Shaboozey, however, remained positive, posting after the event that “Ain’t nobody kicking me!”
Looking ahead, Shaboozey is nominated for six Grammy Awards in February 2025, including Best Country Song and Best New Artist.