Shaboozey‘s story is unlikely in so many respect. His song, A Bar Song (Tipsy) is one of 2024’s biggest hits, tying the record for the longest-running No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100. This hit qualifies as country music, so has spent 25 weeks on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. Then the artist is black and Nigerian.
Shaboozey, born Collins Obinna Chibueze on May 9, 1995, in Woodbridge, Virginia, embodies a rich cultural fusion. As the son of Nigerian immigrants, his upbringing was steeped in Nigerian traditions while also being exposed to American cultural elements. This unique duality profoundly shaped his musical identity, inspiring him to blend genres like hip-hop, country, and rock to create a sound that’s distinctly his own.
His father’s love for Western Americana culture—reflected in cowboy hats and Wrangler jeans—left an indelible mark on Shaboozey’s artistic vision. This influence, combined with the rhythmic energy of Nigerian music and the lyrical storytelling found in hip-hop and country, became the foundation of his genre-blurring sound.
Musical Career and Rise to Fame
Shaboozey’s journey into music began in 2014 with experimental tracks that defied easy classification. He released his debut album, Lady Wrangler, in 2018, drawing attention from underground music enthusiasts. His follow-up project, Cowboys Live Forever, Outlaws Never Die (2022), hinted at his ambition to challenge conventional musical genres.
However, it was his third album, Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going (2024), that made him a household name. The project’s lead single, “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” became a global hit, resonating with audiences far beyond his core fanbase. Its infectious chorus and seamless blend of country twang with hip-hop rhythm struck a chord with listeners worldwide. The track topped the Billboard Hot 100 for 19 weeks, matching a historic record for the longest-running number-one single.
The single’s success was propelled by TikTok’s viral trends, where thousands of creators used the song’s catchy hook in their videos. Mainstream media—including The Wall Street Journal and BBC—hailed it as “the drinking song of the year,” cementing Shaboozey’s status as a crossover superstar.
Signature Sound and Hit Songs
Shaboozey’s music is defined by his fearless approach to sound fusion. He blends country guitar riffs with 808 drum beats and hip-hop-style lyricism. This daring approach has produced several chart-topping hits, including:
- “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”: Widely regarded as his breakout track, this song’s irresistible energy and universal relatability made it a defining anthem of 2024. Its storytelling prowess evokes the imagery of classic bar anthems, while the thumping beats keep it fresh for modern listeners.
- “Good News”: This reflective yet upbeat track explores themes of hope and perseverance. It’s a masterclass in lyrical storytelling, with verses that capture the highs and lows of chasing dreams.
- “Vegas” (COLORS SHOW Performance): Shaboozey’s live performance of “Vegas” on the acclaimed COLORS platform displayed his raw stage presence. His soulful delivery and vocal command offered a glimpse of his range and ability to connect with live audiences.
Net Worth and Commercial Success
Shaboozey’s meteoric rise has also come with significant financial rewards. As of 2024, his estimated net worth is between $5 million and $10 million. His wealth is fueled by multiple revenue streams, including album sales, streaming royalties, live tours, brand endorsements, and licensing deals for film and TV soundtracks.
The viral success of “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” boosted his streaming numbers, raking in millions of plays across platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. His live performances and brand partnerships further expanded his financial portfolio, with industry analysts predicting that his earnings could double as he embarks on his highly anticipated 2025 European tour.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Shaboozey’s success is more than just personal triumph—it’s a cultural milestone. As a Nigerian-American artist, he’s breaking barriers in genres traditionally perceived as “American,” such as country and rock. His ability to merge these with the dynamism of hip-hop has made him a symbol of musical innovation.
Shaboozey’s path to fame differs significantly from the growing wave of Nigerian artists like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido, who have dominated global charts through the Afrobeats movement. While his compatriots have leaned on the rhythmic vibrancy and dance-friendly appeal of Afrobeats to achieve commercial success, Shaboozey’s route has been more unconventional. By fusing hip-hop, country, and rock, he’s carved out a niche that’s both deeply personal and refreshingly original. His distinct approach has made him an outlier in the Nigerian music diaspora, appealing to audiences who crave something beyond the familiar Afrobeats sound.
Unlike the stadium-filling anthems of his Nigerian contemporaries, Shaboozey’s tracks feel more like stories from a quiet Southern bar, imbued with the narrative depth of country music and the swagger of hip-hop. His crossover appeal offers a blueprint for future Nigerian artists who seek to break into international markets without being confined to one genre or “Afrobeats” expectations.
Looking Ahead
Shaboozey’s journey is far from over. He’s slated to headline major music festivals in 2025 and embark on a European tour, which is expected to solidify his international appeal. Industry insiders suggest that he’s also working on a new album with potential collaborations from high-profile artists in hip-hop, country, and Afrobeats.
With his ability to tell compelling stories, cross cultural divides, and command both live and digital audiences, Shaboozey is on track to become one of the defining artists of his generation. His story is one of creative freedom, cultural pride, and the power of blending seemingly different worlds into a harmonious whole.