Overview
- In a statement on Feb. 3, Shaboozey said he “never intended to dismiss” Black people’s role after pushback to his acceptance speech.
- The Virginia-born artist, raised by Nigerian immigrants, won Best Country Duo/Group Performance with Jelly Roll for “Amen.”
- Onstage he dedicated the award to children of immigrants and said “immigrants built this country,” thanking migrants for their cultural contributions.
- Dr. Bernice King questioned whether such phrasing includes enslaved Africans and their descendants, noting they did not arrive by choice.
- This year’s Grammys featured broader commentary on immigration policy, with artists wearing “ICE OUT” pins and coverage referencing enforcement tensions in Minnesota described as developing.