Shaboozey Rides High

Shaboozey Rides High: Expanded Album and Festival Triumph Signal a Genre-Bending Future

By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

The past year has been nothing short of a seismic shift for Shaboozey. Catapulted from a burgeoning talent to a global phenomenon, the multi-Platinum recording artist is showing no signs of slowing down. Fresh off a sold-out international headline tour and still riding the crest of his record-breaking anthem, “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” Shaboozey has announced an exciting next chapter: Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going: The Complete Edition. This expanded version of his already Platinum-certified album, set to drop on April 25th via Empire, promises a deeper dive into his compelling sonic landscape, featuring new tracks and some intriguing special guests.

This announcement arrives at a particularly electrifying moment for the Virginia-bred artist. Later this month, Shaboozey is slated to grace the stages of both Coachella and Stagecoach festivals in Indio, California. This rare double billing speaks volumes about his unique ability to resonate with diverse audiences, seamlessly bridging the often-distinct worlds of contemporary pop and the heartland sounds he’s been exploring. It’s a clear indication that Shaboozey isn’t confined by genre boundaries; he’s carving his own path.

The engine driving this meteoric rise is undoubtedly “A Bar Song (Tipsy).” This track has become more than just a hit; it’s a cultural touchstone. Achieving an astounding 8x RIAA-Platinum certification in under a year, it etched its name in the history books by holding the #1 spot on Billboard’s Radio Songs chart for a record-breaking duration. Its dominance didn’t stop there, also claiming the top spot on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs and Country Airplay charts, as well as Mediabase/Country Aircheck. Shaboozey further cemented his groundbreaking status as the first artist to ever have a single crack the top 10 across Country Airplay, Pop Airplay, Adult Pop Airplay, and Rhythmic Airplay charts. Notably, he also became only the second Black artist to simultaneously top both the Billboard Hot 100 and Country Songs charts – a powerful testament to his widespread appeal and the song’s undeniable magnetism.

Beyond the chart accolades, “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” has resonated deeply with listeners, amassing over a billion streams and landing in the Top 10 in numerous countries. Its impact has been particularly significant in Australia, where it became the first independent single to reach #1 on the ARIA charts this year, as well as in Canada, Sweden, Denmark, and the UK’s Big 40. The track’s undeniable quality has earned it widespread critical acclaim, lauded as one of the best songs of 2024 by publications ranging from The New York Times and Variety to Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, Complex, and even earning a spot on Barack Obama’s coveted year-end list.

The original release of Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going has already proven to be a significant artistic statement for Shaboozey. Maintaining a strong presence on the Billboard 200 charts and earning recognition on “Best Albums of 2024” lists from influential publications like Rolling Stone, Billboard, The Hollywood Reporter, and Essence, the album paints a vivid picture. It’s a “cinematic road trip through the wilds of the American West,” as described, showcasing a richer depth to his storytelling and a further exploration of his unique blend of country and folk-inspired sounds.

Now, the Complete Edition promises to expand on this vision with six brand-new tracks, offering even more insight into Shaboozey’s evolving artistry. Among these new additions is the recently released single, “Good News,” which has already earned RIAA-Gold certification, and the brand-new track, “Blink Twice,” featuring the distinctive vocals of BRIT Award-winning UK artist Myles Smith.

“Blink Twice” offers a tantalizing glimpse into the new material. Shaboozey’s signature rich, smoky vocals intertwine with a melodic, Western-style guitar riff, creating an atmosphere that feels both familiar and fresh. It’s another showcase of the arena-ready charisma that captivated audiences worldwide during his recent tour.

Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going: The Complete Edition tracklisting is as follows:

1. Horses & Hellcats
2. A Bar Song (Tipsy)
3. Last Of My Kind (feat. Paul Cauthen)
4. Anabelle
5. East Of The Massanutten
6. Highway
7. Let It Burn
8. My Fault (feat. Noah Cyrus)
9. Vegas
10. Drink Don’t Need No Mix (feat. BigXthaPlug)
11. Steal Her From Me
12. Finally Over
13. Amen (feat. Jelly Roll)
14. Hail Mary (feat. Sierra Ferrell)
15. Fire And Gasoline
16. Blink Twice (feat. Myles Smith)
17. Good News
18. Chrome

With this expanded album and his upcoming festival appearances, Shaboozey is not just capitalizing on his current success; he’s actively shaping his artistic trajectory. He’s demonstrating a willingness to experiment, collaborate, and push the boundaries of genre, all while staying true to the compelling storytelling that has resonated with so many. The journey he’s on is clearly far from over, and Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going: The Complete Edition feels like an exciting roadmap for what lies ahead.

Photo credit: Daniel Prakopcyk