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Lainey Wilson Singer
Lainey Denay Wilson, born on May 19, 1992, is a talented American country music singer-songwriter whose journey into the world of music began at a tender age. Her passion for country music led her to the vibrant city of Nashville, Tennessee, where dreams are crafted and careers are born.
In 2014, Lainey Wilson marked her debut with the release of her first album, laying the foundation for what would become a promising career. Her second album, released in 2016 under the Lone Chief label, further showcased her musical prowess and cemented her presence in the country music scene.
Lainey Wilson’s musical evolution took a significant leap forward when she secured a publishing deal, setting the stage for the release of her captivating extended play (EP) in 2019. This EP featured the standout track “Things a Man Oughta Know,” which later soared to the top of the American country songs chart after its release as a single through the BBR Music Group in 2020.
Notably, Lainey Wilson’s talent has not gone unnoticed in the industry, as evidenced by her impressive accolades. She has been honored with seven Country Music Association Awards, including the prestigious Entertainer of the Year title in 2023, a testament to her undeniable talent and captivating performances. Additionally, she has clinched a Grammy Award and six Academy of Country Music Awards, solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with in the realm of country music.
Behind Lainey Wilson’s meteoric rise to stardom lies a tale of perseverance and resilience. Arriving in Nashville in 2011, she faced the challenges of the music industry head-on, initially residing in a humble camper trailer outside a recording studio. Despite the hardships, Wilson’s determination never wavered, and she continued to hone her craft through relentless dedication and hard work.
Reflecting on her early years in Nashville, Lainey Wilson acknowledges the difficulties she encountered, recognizing them as invaluable lessons that shaped her journey. “It taught me that this thing was not going to be easy. It taught me perseverance,” she remarked in 2021, underscoring the importance of resilience in the pursuit of one’s dreams.
Throughout her career, Lainey Wilson unwavering commitment to her craft has been evident. From captivating audiences with her soulful performances to crafting heartfelt lyrics that resonate with listeners, she has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the world of country music. With each accolade and milestone, Wilson continues to reaffirm her status as a true musical luminary, destined for greatness in the realm of country music.
Baskin, Louisiana, U.S.
| Lainey Denay Wilson | |
| Name | Lainey Denay Wilson |
| Date of Birth | May 19, 1992 |
| Birth Place | Baskin, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Genres | Country |
| Career | 2011–present |
| Profession | Songwriter, Actress |
| Instrument |
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| Labels |
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| Website | laineywilson.com |
Early life
Lainey Wilson, hailing from the quaint town of Baskin, Louisiana, with its population barely touching 250, had humble beginnings. Her roots were deeply intertwined with the land as her father, Brian, toiled as a farmer, while her mother, Michelle, imparted knowledge as a dedicated schoolteacher. Growing up alongside her sister, Janna, Wilson’s journey into the realm of music began early on.
Immersed in the sounds of classic country melodies echoing through their home, courtesy of artists like Buck Owens and Glen Campbell, music became more than just a pastime for the Wilson family; it was a way of life. “Country music for me and my family, it was more than music. We lived the words to those songs,” she shared with The Advocate.
Her pivotal moment came at the tender age of nine, when she found herself in the audience of the Grand Ole Opry, captivated by the performers on stage. “I just remember looking up there, being like, ‘Man, I wanna do that’,” she reminisced. With encouragement from her father, who imparted a few chords, Lainey Wilson began crafting her own songs before even reaching her teens.
In 2006, she took a leap of faith, releasing an extended play (EP) titled “Country Girls Rule” on the then-popular platform Myspace. As she traversed through high school, Lainey Wilson took on a unique gig, stepping into the shoes of the beloved Hannah Montana. From birthday parties to community fairs and festivals spanning across Louisiana, Mississippi, and Arkansas, her portrayal of the iconic character became a familiar sight. Notably, she once brought smiles to the faces of child cancer patients at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, using her music as a beacon of hope and joy.
Career
Lainey Wilson’s journey began after completing high school when she made the bold move to Nashville, Tennessee in August 2011. Initially, she found herself living in a camper trailer outside a recording studio, supported by the studio owner who helped cover her basic needs. Reflecting on those early days, Lainey Wilson remarked on the challenges she faced, emphasizing the lesson of perseverance they taught her. Despite the hardships, she persisted, playing small gigs and honing her songwriting skills over the following years.
In 2014, Lainey Wilson marked her debut with a self-titled album under the Cupit label, followed by her sophomore effort, “Tougher,” in 2016, released under the Lone Chief label. The latter gained traction, earning a spot on the prestigious Billboard Top Country Albums list, setting the stage for Wilson’s ascent. By 2018, she released her second EP, which she self-titled and self-released, leading to significant milestones including a publishing deal with Sony/ATV and a management deal, both inked in the same year.
The turning point in Lainey Wilson’s career came in 2019 when she secured a major-label recording contract with the BBR Music Group. Her inaugural major-label release, the EP “Redneck Hollywood,” garnered critical acclaim, with particular praise for her songwriting prowess and the production quality. This marked the beginning of a series of successes for Wilson, as she gained recognition from esteemed platforms like Country Music Television and embarked on tours with industry heavyweights like Morgan Wallen.
However, it was her 2020 single “Things a Man Oughta Know” that catapulted Wilson to mainstream success. The track received widespread acclaim across various media platforms and soared to the top of the Billboard Country Airplay chart, solidifying her status as a rising star in the country music scene. This momentum carried forward into her third studio album, “Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin'” (2021), which received rave reviews for its authenticity and relatability.
Lainey Wilson star continued to rise as she embarked on high-profile tours and collaborations, including joining Jason Aldean’s “Back in the Saddle Tour” and teaming up with Cole Swindell on the chart-topping single “Never Say Never.” Her solo single “Heart Like a Truck” and the album “Bell Bottom Country” further cemented her position as a powerhouse in country music. Recognition followed suit, with Wilson earning multiple nominations and accolades at prestigious events like the Country Music Association Awards.
In addition to her musical accomplishments, Wilson expanded her presence into the acting realm, joining the cast of the popular series Yellowstone. Her multifaceted talent also extended to songwriting, with her contribution to fellow artist MacKenzie Porter’s single “Chasing Tornadoes” in 2023. This diverse range of achievements culminated in Wilson’s standout performance at the 57th Annual Country Music Association Awards, where she clinched five wins, including the coveted Entertainer of the Year title, solidifying her status as a powerhouse in the industry.
Influences
Lainey Wilson music is a fusion of country with pop, southern rock, contemporary, and classic country influences. Mark Deming of AllMusic describes her sound as authentic, featuring a clear, strong voice with a proud Southern accent. Her songs resonate with tough yet heartfelt themes, drawing from the essence of vintage Southern and classic rock, while also incorporating a modern pop flair.
Describing her style as “bell-bottom country,” Lainey Wilson blends the ease of easy listening with the raw honesty of hard truths, creating a unique musical blend. She pays homage to her musical roots and influences, notably Dolly Parton, whom she reveres in her self-penned track “WWDD” (What Would Dolly Do). Additionally, Lainey Wilson acknowledges Lee Ann Womack as a significant influence on both her career and musical direction.
Personal life
In 2022, during the filming of her debut season on Yellowstone, Lainey Wilson faced a challenging period as her father, Brian Wilson, battled severe health issues, including a stroke and a fungal infection necessitating the removal of his left eye. Despite the turmoil, her father’s unwavering encouragement propelled her to persist with the show, even amidst contemplating leaving to support him. Fortunately, her father’s health gradually improved, culminating in a heartwarming moment when he joined her on the red carpet at the prestigious 56th CMA Awards.
Towards the end of the same year, Lainey found herself unexpectedly in the spotlight of a viral phenomenon on social media, particularly on TikTok. A video capturing her performance at a concert swiftly gained traction, with viewers notably drawn to the flattering portrayal of her physique, accentuated by her choice of attire. This sparked a trend where users shared additional content, showering praise on her figure. In response, Lainey embraced the attention with grace and humor, weaving light-hearted banter and expressing optimism that newfound admirers would delve into her music, potentially fostering a deeper connection with her artistry.
By May 2023, Lainey Wilson’s personal life made headlines as she confirmed her relationship with former NFL quarterback, Devlin “Duck” Hodges. Shedding light on their romance during an interview with The Bobby Bones Show, Lainey disclosed that they had been together for over two years before making their relationship public.
Career Statistics
Discography
| Studio Albums | 4 |
| Music Videos | 7 |
| Singles | 11 |
| Promotional Singles | 10 |
| Other Album | 2 |
| EPs | 3 |
| Total | 37 |
Awards
| Won | 17 |
| Nominated | 19 |
| Total | 36 |
Studio Albums
| Title | Album Details | Peak Chart Positions |
|---|---|---|
| Lainey Wilson | Released: August 6, 2014 | |
| Label: Cupit | ||
| Formats: Digital | ||
| Tougher | Released: April 8, 2016 | |
| Label: Lone Chief | ||
| Formats: CD, digital | US: 44, US Country: 44 | |
| Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ | Released: February 19, 2021 | |
| Label: BBR | ||
| Formats: LP, CD, digital | US Country: 40, US Heat: 3 | |
| Bell Bottom Country | Released: October 28, 2022 | |
| Label: BBR | ||
| Formats: LP, CD, digital | US: 51, US Country: 9, AUS: 35 | |
| Extended Plays | ||
| Country Girls Rule | Released: 2006 | |
| Label: Self-released | ||
| Format: Digital | ||
| Lainey Wilson | Released: April 13, 2018 | |
| Label: Self-released | ||
| Format: Digital | ||
| Redneck Hollywood | Released: September 13, 2019 | |
| Label: BBR | ||
| Format: Digital | ||
| Singles | ||
| As Lead Artist | ||
| “Tougher” | 2015 | |
| “Workin’ Overtime” | 2018 | |
| “High on Somethin'” | ||
| “Dirty Looks” | 2019 | |
| “Things a Man Oughta Know” | 2020 | |
| “Heart Like a Truck” | 2022 | |
| “Watermelon Moonshine” | 2023 | |
| “Wildflowers and Wild Horses” | ||
| As Featured Artist | ||
| “Mama Ain’t Jesus” | 2021 | |
| “Never Say Never” | 2021 | |
| “Wait in the Truck” | 2022 | |
| “Save Me” | 2023 | |
| Promotional Singles | ||
| “WWDD” | 2020 | |
| “Rolling Stone” | ||
| “Sunday Best” | ||
| “Small Town, Girl” | ||
| “Neon Diamonds” | ||
| “Two Story House” | 2021 | |
| “Christmas Cookies” | ||
| “Beer Song” | ||
| “Live Off” | 2022 | |
| Music Videos | ||
| “Workin’ Overtime” | 2018 | |
| “Things a Man Oughta Know” | 2021 | |
| “Never Say Never” | 2022 | |
| “Heart Like a Truck” | ||
| “Wait in the Truck” | 2022 | |
| “Grease” | 2023 | |
| “Watermelon Moonshine” | ||
| “Wildflowers and Wild Horses” | 2024 | |
| Other Album Appearances | ||
| “Good Time to Me” | 2021 | |
| “Drunk on Christmas” | ||
| “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” | 2023 | |
| “Thicc as Thieves” | ||
| “Mama He’s Crazy” |
Live Albums
| Title | Year | Role | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yellowstone | 2022 | Abby |
Awards and Nominations
| Year | Nominee / Work | Award | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | CMT Music Awards | Breakthrough Video of the Year – “Things a Man Oughta Know” | Nominated |
| 2021 | Academy of Country Music Awards | New Female Artist of the Year | Won |
| 2021 | Academy of Country Music Awards | Song of the Year – “Things a Man Oughta Know” | Won |
| 2022 | CMT Music Awards | CMT Digital – First Performance of the Year – “Things a Man Oughta Know” | Nominated |
| 2022 | CMT Music Awards | Video of the Year – “Never Say Never” (with Cole Swindell) | Nominated |
| 2022 | Country Music Association Awards | Female Vocalist of the Year | Won |
| 2022 | Country Music Association Awards | New Artist of the Year | Won |
| 2022 | Country Music Association Awards | Album of the Year – Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ | Nominated |
| 2022 | Country Music Association Awards | Song of the Year – “Things a Man Oughta Know” | Nominated |
| 2022 | Country Music Association Awards | Musical Event of the Year – “Never Say Never” (with Cole Swindell) | Nominated |
| 2022 | Country Music Association Awards | Video of the Year – “Never Say Never” (with Cole Swindell) | Nominated |
| 2023 | Academy of Country Music Awards | Album of the Year – Bell Bottom Country | Won |
| 2023 | Academy of Country Music Awards | Female Artist of the Year | Won |
| 2023 | Academy of Country Music Awards | Single of the Year – “Heart Like a Truck” | Nominated |
| 2023 | Academy of Country Music Awards | Song of the Year – “Wait in the Truck” (with Hardy) | Nominated |
| 2023 | Academy of Country Music Awards | Musical Event of the Year – “Wait in the Truck” (with Hardy) | Won |
| 2023 | Academy of Country Music Awards | Visual Media of the Year – “Wait in the Truck” (with Hardy) | Won |
| 2023 | Country Music Association Awards | Entertainer of the Year | Won |
| 2023 | Country Music Association Awards | Female Vocalist of the Year | Won |
| 2023 | Country Music Association Awards | Album of the Year – Bell Bottom Country | Won |
| 2023 | Country Music Association Awards | Song of the Year – “Heart Like a Truck” | Nominated |
| 2023 | Country Music Association Awards | Single of the Year – “Heart Like a Truck” | Nominated |
| 2023 | Country Music Association Awards | Single of the Year – “Wait in the Truck” (with Hardy) | Nominated |
| 2023 | Country Music Association Awards | Musical Event of the Year – “Wait in the Truck” (with Hardy) | Won |
| 2023 | Country Music Association Awards | Musical Event of the Year – “Save Me” (with Jelly Roll) | Nominated |
| 2023 | Country Music Association Awards | Video of the Year – “Wait in the Truck” (with Hardy) | Won |
| 2024 | 66th Grammy Awards | Best Country Duo/Group Performance – “Save Me” (with Jelly Roll) | Nominated |
| 2024 | 66th Grammy Awards | Best Country Album – Bell Bottom Country | Won |
