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…

There's no such thing as talking too much about the Sex Lives of College Girls alum's AMAs look.

Instead of jeans, the country artist wore a suit that fit just right. 

The singer was his own beautiful thing at the AMAs.

The artist took his look to a higher level in his tuxedo and bow tie. 

Fans of the singer almost started a riot over his plaid, country-inspired look. 

The singer knows how to 1, 2 step into a perfect look.

The "Emo Girl" singer was all smiles ahead of the AMAs.

The actor took his daughter along as his plus one for the evening.

The artist and actress stunned in her sequined, animal print look.

The musical icon was sailing along the AMAs purple carpet. 

The model walked the carpet in a bold, all black look.

The comedian's outfit hit the perfect note.

The actress was a vision in blue.

The musical duo's looks left the crowd speechless.

The 28-year-old stunned in a cheetah-print strapless number.

The DJ and his girlfriend coordinated in all black looks. 

The LA Showman strikes a pose in all black. 

The Olympian's look deserved gold.

The country star channeled wildflowers for her purple carpet look. 

The Traitors star looked faithful as ever in his green suit. 

The Hills alums struck a pose on the purple carpet.

This look was anything but ordinary.

Fans of the country singer won't need caller ID to recognize the artist on the carpet.

The 32-year-old stunned in her beige gown. 

The influencer—and soon to be Dancing with the Stars contestant—donned a 

The couple stunned as Gloria returtned to the AMAs for the first time in 30 years.

There weren't any purple hats in sight, but the Sofi Tukker duo were still primed for dancing on the people.

The rapper—real name Sandra Denton—painted a mighty good picture on the purple carpet.

Even though it's not Friday, the artist arrived in style and ready to get down. 

It was after hours, and the singer rocked her semi-sheer, sparkly mini dress.

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