Nigerian-American recording artist Shaboozey is one of the latest breakout artists with his single titled “A Bar Song (Tipsy).” Released on April 12th and lifted from his much-anticipated forthcoming album Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going, the track switches genres with precision to deliver an undeniably universal catchiness. In just a few weeks, “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” has zoomed up the charts to hit #3 on the Billboard Hot 100, while also taking over chart positions in many other countries. Most impressively, it achieved a historic #1 spot as the first Black artist on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, replacing Beyoncé at the top.
“A Bar Song (Tipsy)” casually opens by sampling J-Kwon’s 2004 hit “Tipsy,” taking the listener back to that unforgettable era of hip-hop and R&B. This nostalgic nod taps into the joy of recognizing familiar sounds from our younger days. Tinged with banjos and electric guitar, the catchy, rap-inspired vocals glide over an upbeat pop instrumental. Wrapped in a sound so peculiar and distinct, it stands out from the current genre fillers.
“A Bar Song (Tipsy)” is an anthem for all of your drowsy misadventures. Shaboozey paints a vibrant picture of dancing on tables, buying rounds at the bar, and chasing whisky shots with close friend Jack Daniels, all while singing along and engaging in call-and-response with the room. References to Birkin bags, 9-5 jobs, and going out downtown add effortless chic to the song. But beneath the surface, it also explores finding that perfect balance between work and relationships, keeping stress levels down, and having a good time with friends.
All chart talk aside, what genuinely makes “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” impressive is the smooth manner in which Shaboozey has bridged quintessential elements of hip-hop, pop, country, and Americana into a cohesive experience. Each inclusion here feels intentional—genre-bending for the sake of genre-bending. It results in an incredibly meaty yet classic-sounding track that toes the line between old and new, appealing to both hip-hop heads and country fans. Almost everyone can relate to “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”—whether you’re a career hip-hop head, lifelong country fan, or casual pop listener—there’s something for everyone to love.
Such an irresistibly infectious and well-constructed single signals that Shaboozey has categorically announced his arrival in the strong musical arena. “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” is the full package: a track you can play at the bar, club, or any party with universal crowd-pleasing appeal. Moreover, it marks the promising early work of an artist who understands different eras and genres—someone with a rare mastery of weaving disparate influences together into something fresh and new.
Check Out More Song Reviews:
