Country music’s deep and diverse history took center stage at the 2025 American Music Awards — and not just because of the performances.
A viral exchange between presenters Shaboozey and Megan Moroney sparked debate about the origins of country music, prompting both public discussion and a thoughtful response from John Carter Cash, grandson of country music pioneers.
The Viral AMA Moment: A Misstep in Country Music History?
During the AMAs, Shaboozey and Moroney presented the award for Favorite Country Duo or Group. In doing so, they honored past legends, but one line drew instant attention:
“This award went to The Carter Family, who basically invented country music,” Moroney said.
Shaboozey’s on-camera reaction — a mix of surprise, silence, and visible discomfort — immediately went viral. Viewers praised him for his composed response and subtle facial expressions, which many interpreted as a quiet correction to a historical oversimplification.
Fans Weigh In — And So Does Shaboozey
Social media erupted with support for Shaboozey’s reaction and nuanced takes on Moroney’s comment. Some defended her, noting presenters often read from a teleprompter. Others pointed out the omission of Black artists and other cultural influences in shaping the genre.
Shaboozey later posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“The real history of country music is about people coming together despite their differences… When you uncover the true history of country music, you find a story so powerful that it cannot be erased.”
When you uncover the true history of country music, you find a story so powerful that it cannot be erased…
— Shaboozey (@ShaboozeysJeans) May 27, 2025
The real history of country music is about people coming together despite their differences, and embracing and celebrating the things that make us alike.
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He followed up with a now-deleted post encouraging fans to Google names like Lesley Riddle, Steve Tartar, and DeFord Bailey, highlighting their often overlooked roles in the genre’s foundation.
John Carter Cash Sets the Record Straight
As the grandson of Maybelle Carter and son of Johnny Cash and June Carter, John Carter Cash weighed in with a balanced, respectful response on Instagram:
“The original Carter Family were humble mountain people… It took a village to make this happen. AP Carter went door-to-door collecting songs, and he had a lot of help from Lesley Riddle. Lesley never forgot a melody, AP never forgot a lyric.”
He acknowledged Maybelle Carter’s groundbreaking contributions to guitar playing in country music but emphasized that her influences were diverse:
“She was not only influenced by Black musicians like Lesley Riddle, but by Mexican mariachi players, gospel music, and Celtic folk songs. It’s a melting pot. That’s what America is.”
Respect and Reconciliation
Shaboozey also made sure to clear up misunderstandings. In the comment section of Megan Moroney’s Instagram, he wrote:
“My reaction at the AMAs had nothing to do with Megan Moroney! She’s incredibly talented… Let’s not twist the message — she is amazing and represents the country community in the highest light.”
His message helped defuse tension, reinforcing that the moment was about honoring a broader musical heritage — not targeting a fellow artist.
