Social media users have noted that Willmon could have simply been making a play on the phrase kicking booty.
Shaboozey was born Collins Obinna Chibueze to Nigerian immigrant parents.
In the particular instance of the CMA Awards, poking fun at Shaboozeys name had been normalized all night.
Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” gave country the biggest song of the year, but the artist endured jokes about his name at the 2024 CMAs.Michael Buckner/Variety/Getty Images
During the opening monologue, co-host Peyton Manning segued from one sentence into another using the exclamation Holy Shaboozey!
as a bridge between the two.
Manning promptly, and fittingly, responded: That does not sound right at all.
Notably, each artist mentioned in the segment was shown on camera in the audience moments later.
They have every right to be.
Then came A Bar Song, whichdethronedBeyonces Texas Hold Em at Number One on Billboards Hot Country Songs chart.
It marked the first time two Black artists have held the position consecutively.
He walked in a winner.
And the poorly written remarks that the hosts read off of a teleprompter dont change that.
But his first year at the show should have opened the door for him to be welcomed.
Instead, it was arguably slammed in his face.
Meanwhile, artists like Bryan suggested that Beyonce simplydidnt integrate herselfinto the country community enough.
But what about Shaboozey?
He played the game.
He came to the award show.
Why would anyone want to be part of that community?
Shaboozey deserves more than what the CMA Awards gave him on Wednesday night.
In fact, he deserves an apology.
