On Wednesday at 9:17 p.m., Shaboozey took the stage at Irving Plaza, captivating a sold-out audience of 1,200. The Nigerian American singer aimed to transform the country music scene. With a casual vibe and a beer in hand, he introduced himself: “New York, my name’s Shaboozey,” prompting cheers from the eager crowd.
He kicked off with his track “Last of My Kind,” instantly energizing the venue as fans joined in to sing along. Clad in a stylish white deep-collared shirt paired with bootcut jeans, he humorously mentioned his new Doc Martens, highlighting their unconventional role in his country-themed outfit. The stage was adorned with nostalgic neon saloon signs and images of galloping horses, while Shaboozey provided a contemporary spin on the genre.
During his performance, Shaboozey artfully mingled traditional country music elements with modern flair. From sharing whiskey shots on stage to playfully asking, “How many cowboys and cowgirls are here tonight?”, his act was dynamic. A surprising twist came when he performed a country version of Waka Flocka Flame’s “No Hands,” showcasing his versatile style that defies genre classifications.
The sight of Shaboozey, a Nigerian artist with dreadlocks, leading the charge in a genre historically dominated by non-Black artists was striking. You could easily mistake the atmosphere for that of a Morgan Wallen concert, but Shaboozey’s presence marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing cultural discourse about country music.
Historically, country music has marginalized Black artists despite their significant contributions. Beyoncé’s 2016 performance of “Daddy Lessons” with The Chicks at the Country Music Awards was intended to signify progress, but the backlash underscored the barriers still present in the genre. This prompted Beyoncé’s commitment to country music through her album Cowboy Carter, reinforcing her artistic influence, even as she faced another CMAs snub this year.
Shaboozey, having collaborated with Beyoncé on Cowboy Carter, has rapidly gained recognition, securing three CMA nominations for 2023 — including honors for Single of the Year and New Artist of the Year for his popular track “Bar Song (Tipsy).” His accolades indicate a potential shift in the country music landscape, despite Beyoncé’s continued marginalization.
During the performance, a fan shouted “703 Baby!” in recognition of Shaboozey’s Virginia background, emphasizing his dual status as a rising star and local hero. He transitioned into a more soulful segment, finishing with the hit “Bar Song (Tipsy)” and an energetic encore.
Shaboozey’s achievements carry broader implications. For country music to truly embrace diversity, it must provide authentic opportunities for Black artists, enabling them to thrive rather than be mere tokens. Shaboozey is proving that Black artists are integral to country music’s past and are crucial in shaping its future. His concert at Irving Plaza wasn’t just entertainment; it was a powerful declaration that Black artists will pave the path of country music going forward.
Comment