Why Shaboozey Says Being a Black Artist in Country Music Gave Him 'Space to Stand Out' (Exclusive) (2025)

Shaboozey has never been one to let his path be dictated by precedent — especially when it comes to breaking into country music.

Though his origin story may make him unique when it comes to the genre’s history (he was born and raised in Virginia to Nigerian parents), the “Amen” singer, 30, tells PEOPLE in this week’s joint print and digital cover that standing out is actually his strength.

“I loved that there was so much room for some diversity in the space and to stand out. I love standing out,” he says. “I love that I’m different. I think it’s my superpower. [I’m] not feeling like I’m not allowed in this space because of the way I look or the way I dress or the way I present myself. If anything, hopefully it opens doors for people.”

Shaboozey has quickly become a country darling on the back of his breakthrough hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” which smashed records upon its release last spring. He’s also been embraced by the genre’s annual awards shows; he was up for New Artist of the Year and Single of the Year at the CMA Awards, plus New Male Artist and Single of the Year at the ACM Awards.

The Grammys recognized him in the genre, too, nominating “A Bar Song” for Best Country Song and Best Country Solo Performance. He was also featured twice on Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, which celebrates Black country artists — and when “A Bar Song” topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, dethroning Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em,” it marked the first time two Black artists have topped that chart consecutively.

“I don’t like to follow the norm or trends,” he says. “I feel like to be successful in today’s climate, you’ve got to be different. Something in my gut or in my spirit leads me to create the things I create and do the things I do. And I think following that purpose attracts good things.”

So far, that intuition has served him well. In addition to his awards shows nominations, the star's breakout year has also included a coveted invite to the Met Gala, a music guest slot on Saturday Night Live, festivals gigs at Coachella and Stagecoach, and an NFL Super Bowl ad for Nerds.

With Shaboozey joining a growing list of current Black country stars that includes Mickey Guyton, BRELAND and Kane Brown, he’s helping to make the genre a more welcoming place for all.

Singer-songwriter Myles Smith, who collaborated with Shaboozey on “Blink Twice,” off the newly released deluxe edition of his hit album Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going, says, “He inspires me every day with everything he’s accomplishing and the walls that he’s tearing down. The precedent that he’s setting is incredible.”

For now, though, he’s just happy riding the wave — and focusing on what’s next.

“The worst thing that can happen to an artist is waking up and not being inspired. As long as you’re inspired, you can create something that changes your life. I have so many ideas. Who knows what the next thing will be?” he says. “This is when the fun begins.”

For more on Shaboozey, pick up the latest issue of PEOPLE, on newsstands Friday, or subscribe here.