Recognition and Grounding
"Making sure that I feel like Lainey - the sister, the friend, daughter, aunt and dog mom and all of those things," Wilson shares. "As long as I can do that, I can be the best version of the artist that I try to be." Her latest album, Whirlwind, released in August, reflects her riveting career over the last year. "Country's having its moment, and I'm proud to be a part of the movement," she says.For Lainey Wilson, it's the little things that keep her grounded. She values her relationships and family, and it shows in her music and performances.
The Country's Cool Again Tour
The star recently wrapped up her Country's Cool Again Tour with over 35 shows. Last month, she cohosted the 2024 CMA Awards with Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning, followed by a Thanksgiving NFL halftime performance in Dallas that was watched by millions. "I get nervous before everything, whether I'm singing for 20 people or 40 million households tuned in for the Dallas Cowboys game," she says. "If I stop getting nervous, I got something to worry about."Her busy schedule shows no signs of slowing down. On Dec. 14, her Wildflowers and Wild Horses Tour will stop at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, with T-Mobile as the official wireless partner, giving customers exclusive access to preferred tickets.
Bringing Out Special Guests
For the Bell Bottom Country musician, this upcoming performance will be a full-circle moment. "We are bringing out Mae Estes and Tracy Lawrence, which is really cool to think that Tracy Lawrence is going to be on my show bill," she says. "He took me out on the road with him about three years ago and I remember he stood side stage and watched every single one of my performances."These collaborations add an extra layer of excitement to her shows and showcase her respect and appreciation for the industry.
Meteoric Rise and Challenges
Wilson's meteoric rise from opener to headliner hasn't been easy. For her and many other women in the industry, climbing the ranks is a tough battle. "There is a shift happening, I will say. I hear more female artists being talked about. I still feel like we're not completely there," she says. "But here's the thing about the girls, when they break through - because it is so hard to break through - they can stand the test of time."She believes in the power of female artists and their ability to make a lasting impact.
Recognition and Awards
Wilson's career does not come without its fair share of recognition. Earlier this year, she took home the Grammy for best country album and earned another nod in the same category for the 2025 ceremony. She also won the 2024 CMA Award for female vocalist of the year - on the very same night she hosted. "I'm not going to lie, the recognition is great," she explains. "It gives me that little extra notch in my belt and encouragement to keep on going and doing what I'm doing."But one recognition stands out above the rest for her - being invited to be a member of the Grand Ole Opry.
The Grand Ole Opry
"When I got invited to be a member of the Grand Ole Opry this past year, that is better than any award I could ever get," she says. "The Grand Ole Opry is a magical place. My parents took me there when I was nine years old."She remembers the significance of that moment and how it has shaped her career. For 2025, Wilson has a lot more in store. She's already got a head start on a new batch of music, and she kicks off her Whirlwind European tour on March 4 with a stop in Zurich.
Tickets for the Wildflowers and Wild Horses Tour stop in Las Vegas are on sale now, giving fans the opportunity to experience her music live.