FanDuel just announced that genre-bending country artist Shaboozey will headline its exclusive Derby weekend bash, and it feels like a move that might finally bridge the gap between mint juleps and modern vibes. The Kentucky Derby has always been about fancy hats, bourbon, and tradition. All of that will still be there, but this time around it’s getting a shot of something fresher.
Set for Friday, May 2 at the Paristown Arts and Entertainment District in Louisville, the party is invite-only and promises to be one of the hottest tickets of Derby weekend. FanDuel’s inaugural event last year featured Luke Bryan and Ne-Yo (yes, really), and it looks like they’re leaning even harder into their “old meets new” energy with Shaboozey leading the charge this time around.
A country-hybrid artist with broad appeal
If you haven’t heard Shaboozey’s name yet, you’re about to. The Virginia-born artist has been carving out a unique space that blends country, hip-hop, and alternative vibes—think if Johnny Cash and Kid Cudi had a backyard jam session. His breakout hits like “Let It Burn” and the smoother, introspective “Tall Boy” have earned him comparisons to genre rebels like Lil Nas X and Jelly Roll, but his sound is very much his own. Equal parts twang and swagger, it’s tailor-made for both campfires and car speakers.
Shaboozey’s rising star makes him an inspired pick for FanDuel. Let’s be real—Derby crowds tend to skew a little older, a little more traditional. On the other hand, FanDuel’s core user base? Young, digital-native, and probably betting on their phones while sipping a canned cocktail. Shaboozey might be one of the few artists who can thread that needle—bringing enough Southern flavor for the Kentucky diehards, while still keeping it cool enough for the app-scrollers.
And he’s ready for the moment, saying:
I’m hyped to be part of the Derby this year. It’s one of those bucket list events you dream about playing and we’ll be bringing serious vibes to Louisville with FanDuel.
Translation: if you manage to get an invite, wear something that can handle dancing.
Beyond the music, FanDuel’s also using the event to give back. They’re making a $100,000 donation to the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, which helps retired racehorses find new homes and second careers. A solid nod to the Derby’s roots, and a reminder that this isn’t just about party lights and performance clips on Instagram.
Can’t make the party? Check out the Railbird Festival
For those who miss him at the Derby party (or just want another round), Shaboozey will be back in Kentucky soon. He’s also on the bill for the Railbird Festival in Lexington on June 1—not a FanDuel event, but another chance to catch his live set in the Bluegrass State.
Whether you’re a fan of the ponies, the playlist, or just the party, one thing’s for sure: Shaboozey is having a moment—and the Derby just got a little cooler because of it.
This article was written with AI assistance and extensive human input.
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