Shaboozey has finally addressed the backlash that followed his emotional Grammy acceptance speech. On Sunday, as he accepted the trophy for Best Country Performance, the "Let It Burn" musician delivered a stirring speech that recognized the sacrifices of immigrants. "Immigrants built this country, literally," he said, adding that his words were also for those who had come to this country in search of better opportunities and to be part of a nation that promised freedom and equal opportunity to all. "Thank you for bringing your culture, your music, your stories, and your traditions," he said. "You give America color. I love you so much. Thank you."
However, after his speech made headlines, several social media users claimed that it was actually enslaved Black people who built the country, not immigrants. In response to the backlash, Shaboozey posted a lengthy note on his Instagram on Tuesday, February 3.
"First and foremost, I want to express my deep gratitude to everyone who has supported and celebrated my journey as an artist," he began. "I also want to acknowledge the conversation surrounding my acceptance speech."
Shaboozey further wrote, "To be clear, I know and believe that we—Black people—have also built this country. My words were never intended to dismiss that truth. I am both a Black man and the son of Nigerian immigrants, and in the overwhelming moment of winning my first Grammy, my focus was on honoring the sacrifices my parents made by coming to this country to give me and my siblings opportunities they never had."
"At the same time, 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. This moment belongs to all of us," continued the "Finally Over" hitmaker.
Concluding his lengthy note, Shaboozey wrote, "My entire career has been rooted in lifting people up, honoring where we come from, and expanding what’s possible. I am proud to be part of this legacy, and I intend to continue doing that work for the rest of my life."
