*Shaboozey spoke out after receiving criticism for remarks he made during his 2026 Grammys acceptance speech. The country artist, who was born and raised in Virginia to Nigerian immigrant parents, shared a public response to clarify his intentions and highlight his personal and cultural roots.
The singer, whose real name is Collins Chibueze, won the Best Country Duo/Group Performance award for “Amen” alongside Jelly Roll on February 1. During his emotional speech, he praised immigrants, saying, “Immigrants built this country, literally. So this is for them,” and dedicated the award to their families.
The remarks sparked criticism online, with social media users accusing Shaboozey of overlooking the contributions of Black Americans and enslaved people who helped build the country, while crediting immigrants for achievements they were not responsible for.
A letter from me ? pic.twitter.com/DgcOavMHjx
— Shaboozey (@ShaboozeysJeans) February 3, 2026
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Following the backlash, Shaboozey posted an open letter on X on February 3, apologizing for not fully acknowledging Black Americans.
“To be clear, I know and believe that we — Black people, have also built this country. My words were not meant to erase, diminish, or overlook that truth, and I sincerely apologize for how they came across. That history, sacrifice, and resilience are undeniable, and I should have been more intentional in honoring that in my moment on stage.”
He also emphasized the historic significance of his win, noting that he is the first Black artist to earn the award in the Best Country Duo/Group category. “… winning this award on the first day of Black History Month and becoming the first Black man to win Best Country Duo is Black history. It stands on the foundation laid by generations of Black people who fought, sacrificed, and succeeded long before me.,” he wrote, adding, “This moment belongs to all of us.”
Shaboozey reflected on his career and personal journey, explaining that it has “been rooted in lifting people up, honoring where we come from, and expanding what’s possible,” and concluded, “I am proud to be a part of this legacy, and I intend to continue doing that work for the rest of my life.”
Separately, rumors linking Shaboozey and R&B songstress SZA romantically were denied, with sources confirming they have never dated, TMZ reports.
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