Shaboozey returns to ‘homey’ Dallas to play his new concept album on Saturday

In a vibrant return to Dallas, Grammy-winning musician Shaboozey is set to perform at the South Side Ballroom this Saturday, bringing his latest project, The Outlaws Never Die Tour, to North Texas. Over the past two years, Shaboozey has cultivated deep ties with the Dallas-Fort Worth area, making the city a creative home where he has filmed music videos, sold out major venues, and shared significant moments with close collaborators.

Known for his genre-defying blend of country, hip-hop, and Americana, Shaboozey has redefined contemporary music landscapes. His crossover appeal was cemented with the prolonged success of his breakout single, “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” which commanded Billboard’s Hot 100 for an impressive 19 weeks in 2024. Following this momentum, Shaboozey’s collaborative track “Amen” with Jelly Roll earned him a Grammy in 2026, solidifying his place among modern music’s innovative voices.

His newest work, a concept album titled The Outlaw Cherie Lee & Other Western Tales, is an ambitious 20-song narrative that unfolds like a cinematic journey. The album centers on Cherie Lee, a fearless female outlaw whose story Shaboozey crafts with a mix of traditional and contemporary musical elements. The album’s thematic depth reflects the artist’s longstanding passion for storytelling, a craft he regards as a crucial cultural connector.

Growing up as a first-generation Nigerian-American, Shaboozey draws on the rich oral traditions of West African folk tales, which have influenced American music through instruments like the banjo. This heritage informs his songwriting approach, melding ancestral narratives with modern soundscapes. The new album represents the fulfillment of a creative vision Shaboozey has pursued since his earliest musical endeavors.

The Outlaws Never Die Tour promises an immersive experience, with each song performed live to elevate the album’s story-driven essence. Shaboozey highlights the balance achieved in blending old and new musical styles, aiming to captivate audiences with innovative arrangements and theatrical presentations.

Collaborations remain an integral part of Shaboozey’s work. The album features Fort Worth native Leon Bridges, with whom Shaboozey has previously worked. Additionally, the artist maintains a close relationship with fellow genre-crosser BigXthaPlug, whose own success in country-rap fusion has paralleled Shaboozey’s ascent. Fans are eager for a full collaborative record featuring all three artists, and Shaboozey has expressed optimism about future joint projects.

Texas, particularly Dallas, has had a profound impact on Shaboozey both professionally and personally. He appreciates the region’s cultural diversity and hospitality, as well as its culinary offerings, especially barbecue. The presence of a thriving Nigerian community in Dallas and Houston further reinforces his sense of belonging.

This weekend’s performance at South Side Ballroom (located at 1135 Botham Jean Blvd.) is anticipated to showcase the full scope of Shaboozey’s artistic evolution, blending music and theater to immerse audiences in the outlaw-themed narrative. As he continues to break boundaries in music, Shaboozey’s connection to Dallas remains a cornerstone of his journey.

While details about future collaborations and projects remain limited, the artist’s trajectory points toward continued innovation and exploration within the genre-blending space he has helped cultivate. His ability to draw from diverse influences and personal history ensures that his work resonates across cultural and musical lines, making his Dallas performances particularly significant for fans and the regional music scene alike.