On Monday night, country music celebrated another year of hit songs, rising stars, and memorable moments at the 2025 American Music Awards. Although a night of celebration, one moment stood out for country fans—and it had nothing to do with an award. There to present the award for favorite country duo or group, Megan Moroney and Shaboozey took the stage to reveal the winner. Spoiler, it went to Dan + Shay. But that wasn’t the moment everyone’s talking about. The moment was Shaboozey’s viral reaction to Moroney suggesting that the Carter Family invented country music.
Videos by American Songwriter
While both singers stood on stage, Shaboozey started out by reading the teleprompter. “Country music has been an important part of AMA history. The very first year of this show, the award for favorite male country artist went to the great Charlie Pride.”
With Shaboozey setting up Moroney for her part, the female singer continued, “That same year, favorite female artist went to Lynn Anderson, and this award [favorite country duo or group] went to the Carter family, who basically invented country music.”
Shaboozey with millions of people watching from home, couldn’t help but take a moment to process the words from Moroney. Barely able to contain himself, the singer gave Moroney the side eye before laughing and moving on.
Fans Stand With Shaboozey, Welcome Conversation Over County Music’s History
Although not addressing the statement at the time, fans were more than willing to discuss the moment, writing, “This is so funny look at his facial expression and the laugh. Basically he’s telling her to stop lying girl. Everyone knows that Black Americans invited Country Music and taught The Carter Family Country Music. Black Americans taught our White American Brothers and Sisters Country Music and many other genres in America.”
While some fans took issue with the statement, one suggested they give Moroney a break as she didn’t write her own speech. “Love Shaboozey and his candid yet contained reaction. I also think folks ought to cut Megan some slack. Presenters at awards shows don’t write their own script. Their job is to read whatever it is the producers put in the teleprompter.”
With fans divided, the moment will surely become a part of AMA history.
(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
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