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Shaboozey and Lil Nas X
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Since Shaboozey gained prominence earlier this year, numerous voices have suggested that Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road” created the path for his hit song “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” to thrive in the current streaming landscape. On Thursday (Oct. 3), the Virginia artist shared his thoughts on the country-rap comparisons during a discussion with Billboard.
Shaboozey reminisced about his first encounter with Nas X the night prior to the 2024 MTV VMAs, which were hosted on September 11. “That’s my guy,” he revealed to the publication. “We haven’t had extensive conversations, but I can sense that what I’m experiencing now is probably quite akin to what he went through.”
Regarding the award show, the Lady Wrangler musician expressed it felt as though he was in a “fishbowl,” with all eyes on him to see if he and Nas X would intersect. “It’s like everyone’s thinking, ‘Are they aware of each other?’” he joked. “[I] cherish the VMAs, but honestly, it felt at times like they weren’t really there for me. However, the increased presence of Black folks and staff at the event showed me genuine support, which is what truly matters.”
Nas X’s “Old Town Road,” which debuted in 2018, continues to hold the record for the longest-reigning No. 1 on the Hot 100 chart. Its accompanying video amassed an incredible 1.3 billion views on YouTube, and the single has achieved Platinum status an astonishing 17 times.
In May, the MONTERO rapper expressed his feelings about missing out on the accolades that contemporary Black country artists are currently receiving, especially following the release of Beyoncé’s COWBOY CARTER. “I wish I could have experienced this. I wasn’t even able to witness it,” he shared with BBC.
During his conversation with Billboard, Shaboozey discussed how country music has traditionally not found its place within Black communities. Reflecting on his performance at 2024’s BET Awards, he explained, “I felt a bit uncertain—whether that’s my own insecurity or [self-judgment]—‘Is this really resonating with people?’ while I performed. That’s my greatest fear… feeling out of sync in this environment. But my aim with music is to shake things up and demonstrate that the art form is evolving.”