Shaboozey shared a statement on his Instagram story on Wednesday (January 15), explaining his decision to postpone his Grand Ole Opry debut because of the wildfires in Los Angeles, California.

The “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” artist said he “was so excited and deeply honored to make my Opry debut this Saturday [January 18]. However due to the devastating wildfires in L.A., we’ll need to postpone this special moment to a later date. My thoughts are with everyone affected, and I want to express my immense gratitude to the brave first responders and firefighters who are tirelessly battling these fires. Thank you for all that you do.”

The Grand Ole Opry previously announced Shaboozey’s debut would take place at a later date as the 29-year-old singer evacuated his L.A. home amid the ongoing wildfires. The Opry’s statement added: “Our thoughts are with Shabozey, Los Angeles, and the surrounding communities during this time.”

Shaboozey was set to take the Opry stage for the first time in the Opry Goes Dolly lineup, a special tribute show celebrating legendary country star Dolly Parton’s birthday. She turns 79 on Sunday (January 19). The Opry Goes Dolly lineup will also include Bill Anderson, Ashley Cooke, Chapel Hart and more.

Shaboozey is one of many artists to express heartbreak over the devastation in California, and gratitude to the first responders battling the flames. Many also listed resources to help those impacted by the wildfires. Others include Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, Carly Pearce, Brett Young and more. Brad Paisley, whose former Pacific Palisades home burned in the fires, expressed his heartbreak and hailed the responders “heroes.”

Lee France