Lainey Wilson: Journey To Stardom, 2022 CMAs, And What's Next For Her
As several prestigious ceremonies in country music are right around the corner, what better time to spotlight the one and only Lainey Wilson? This year, our queen takes the lead in CMA nominations, and has just been announced as CMT's Breakout Artist Of The Year. This trailblazer is quickly making waves and touching several hearts worldwide; 2022 serves as a landmark year for her. Truly, we "Live Off" this rising star and her impeccable no-skip discography.
The Louisiana-born star fell in love with music at an early age, after attending a Crystal Gayle performance at the Grand Ole Opry. This inspired her to write her first song at nine years old, and begin playing the guitar at eleven. In high school, she worked at kids' birthday parties and St. Jude's Children's Hospital as a Hannah Montana tribute act. Additionally, she was a PRCA rodeo flag girl - in this gig, she would ride a horse and carry the flag while singing the national anthem. Her biggest influences include Dolly Parton, LeeAnn Womack, The Chicks, and her father (who was actually her first guitar teacher!).
Wilson moved to Nashville right after graduating high school in 2011. While today, she finally enjoys the recognition and success she deserves, it wasn't an easy road getting there. Initially, she camped in a trailer outside a Nashville recording studio, struggling to make ends meet. However, she persevered through the challenges, and about ten years later, she has blossomed into one of country's biggest breakout artists. Not only is Wilson one of this generation's best singers and songwriters, she's also a true inspiration. She's living proof that it's always worth it to work hard, and never give up on our dreams.
The 30-year-old star currently boasts an extensive catalogue of hits. This includes two #1 singles ("Never Say Never" and "Things A Man Oughta Know"), a heartfelt ballad about her personal journey ("Heart Like A Truck"), her most recent release ("Live Off"), a stunning HARDY collaboration ("wait in the truck"), and perhaps our favorite "Watermelon Moonshine." Wilson's unique sound blends classic country, Americana, mainstream pop, and alternative, with a healthy dose of retro elements. She describes it as "bell-bottom country," also the title of her upcoming album, which we're impatiently waiting for the release of. At this point, we're tempted to just start hibernating, and have someone wake us up on October 28th at midnight.
After the release of Bell Bottom Country, Wilson will sweep the CMAs on November 9th (please, join us in manifesting it, it's very possible given her whopping six nods). She's portraying the up-and-coming musician Abby on Season 5 of the hit western drama Yellowstone, which will premiere only a few days after the CMAs. She will also join fellow superstar Luke Combs on tour, playing to sold-out audiences throughout the nation and world. Fans can purchase tickets on either singer's official website. With Wilson's bold stage presence, breathtaking live vocals, and amazing collection of performance outfits, we absolutely can't wait for this.
Last but not least, here's five fun facts you might not already know about the queen of country music.
Her entire closet is filled with turquoise and bell bottoms. (Wait, duh! You probably already knew this one.)
She has THE BEST custom-made guitar from Fender - it has hearts and leopard print on the front, and the lyrics to her hit "Heart Like A Truck" on the back.
She is the proud mama of the cutest little French bulldog pup, named Hippie Mae.
Her star sign is Taurus, which makes sense given her headstrong personality!
Her favorite food is the classic pepperoni pizza.
Overall, this legend is taking the world by storm. She is country music's next big thing, and no one can convince us otherwise. We love ya Lainey!