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Shaboozey and Lil Nas X
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Since the rise of Shaboozey’s popularity earlier this year, numerous discussions have emerged suggesting that Lil Nas X’s hit “Old Town Road” has significantly contributed to the success of his track “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” in the digital streaming landscape. During an interview with Billboard on Thursday (Oct. 3), the artist from Virginia shared his thoughts on the comparisons between country and rap music.
Shaboozey reminisced about his first encounter with Nas X the night before the 2024 MTV VMAs, held on Sept. 11. “That’s my guy,” he expressed while speaking to the publication. “We haven’t had any profound discussions, but I can sense that what I’m experiencing now is likely very akin to what he went through.”
Regarding the awards event, the Lady Wrangler artist described it as akin to being in a “fishbowl,” with onlookers curious whether he and Nas X would interact. “It feels like everyone is asking, ‘Are they familiar with each other?’” he joked. “I appreciate the VMAs, but there were times I felt they weren’t entirely there for me, to be frank. Fortunately, many Black individuals and staff at the event showed me love, and that’s what truly matters.”
Nas X’s “Old Town Road,” which debuted in 2018, still holds the record for the longest-reigning No. 1 on the Hot 100 chart. The song’s visuals have garnered an impressive 1.3 billion views on YouTube, while the track itself has achieved Platinum status an astounding 17 times.
In May, the MONTERO artist opened up about feeling overlooked in the recognition that contemporary Black country artists are enjoying, particularly following the release of Beyoncé’s COWBOY CARTER. “I really wish this had occurred for me. I couldn’t even savor this moment,” he conveyed to BBC.
In another part of his conversation with Billboard, Shaboozey discussed the traditional lack of “acceptance” of country music within Black communities. Reflecting on his performance at the 2024 BET Awards, he explained, “I even felt — whether that’s my own insecurity or [self-critique] — ‘Is this resonating with the audience?’ as I was performing. That’s my greatest fear… when I feel out of my element in this environment. However, my aim with music is to be disruptive and demonstrate that the art form is evolving.”