Shaboozey Performing at the 2025 Kentucky Derby? Here’s What to Know

Shaboozey is set to headline FanDuel’s exclusive Kentucky Derby Party on May 2, 2025-a dream come true for the rising artist. Taking place at Louisville’s Paristown Arts and Entertainment District, the invite-only event follows last year’s inaugural celebration that featured performances by Luke Bryan and Ne-Yo. This year’s Kentucky Derby will be the 151st running of the historic race, with the main event scheduled for Saturday, May 3.

FanDuel chose Shaboozey following his breakthrough year that included five Grammy nominations, including Best New Artist and Song of the Year. The multi-faceted artist, born to parents of Nigerian descent and raised in Woodbridge, VA, has carved a unique lane in the alternative country and hip-hop space. “I’m hyped to be part of the Derby this year,” he said. “It’s one of those bucket list events you dream about playing and we’ll be bringing serious vibes to Louisville with FanDuel.”

Known for his chart-topper A Bar Song (Tipsy)—which holds the record for the longest-leading Hot 100 No. 1 while also topping Billboard’s Hot Country Songs and Country Airplay charts—Shaboozey made history as the first Black male artist to simultaneously top Billboard’s Hot Country Songs and Hot 100. The event will also support a great cause, with FanDuel donating $100,000 to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, a nonprofit that accredits and provides grants for organizations that care for, retrain, and rehome retired racehorses.

In other Derby news, Shaboozey will be releasing a new collaboration with Stargazing singer Myles Smith titled Blink Twice on Friday, April 11, 2025. Meanwhile, the Kentucky Derby itself will feature gymnast Olivia “Livvy” Dunne as the celebrity host for Oaks Day and former MLB star Jayson Werth as the host for Derby Day at Churchill Downs’ Club SI.