Lainey Wilson: The Reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year Who "Felt Like a Complete Outsider Moving to Nashville to Chase My Dreams"
Sep 26, 2023
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Lainey Wilson, a country singer who overcame rejection in Nashville, discusses her journey from a Louisiana farm to stardom. She shares insights on collaboration, her unique style of music called Bell Bottom Country, and the transformative power of songwriting. Lainey's humble upbringing in a small town influenced her values and work ethic. She also opens up about overcoming financial struggles, staying motivated, and the responsibility she feels towards her young fans.
Lainey Wilson's unique sound, described as 'Bell Bottom Country,' blends southern rock, classic rock, and pop genres.
Despite facing rejection and financial struggles, Lainey Wilson's perseverance and belief in herself led to a record deal and a breakout hit single.
Deep dives
Lainey Wilson's Journey to Country Stardom
Lainey Wilson, a singer-songwriter from Baskin, Louisiana, shares her inspiring journey of perseverance and hard work in the country music industry. After facing rejection and living in a camper trailer for years, Wilson signed a record deal and released the hit single 'Things a Man Oughta Know.' Her unique sound, which she describes as 'Bell Bottom Country,' combines elements of southern rock, classic rock, and pop. Wilson's lyrics reflect her upbringing, emphasizing the importance of good character and treating others right. With six nominations at the Country Music Association Awards, Wilson continues to stay focused and motivated in her pursuit of success.
The Early Years: Growing Up in Baskin, Louisiana
Lainey Wilson recalls her humble beginnings in Baskin, Louisiana, a small town with a tight-knit community. Raised by hardworking parents—a farmer and a teacher—Wilson draws inspiration from her upbringing and the values instilled in her. She credits her parents and the town for keeping her grounded and humble, reminding her to stay true to her roots even as she achieves success in the music industry.
Discovering the Love for Music and Songwriting
From an early age, Lainey Wilson had a passion for music and songwriting. She would entertain family and even perform as Hannah Montana at events. Wilson's love for music grew when her father taught her to play the guitar, opening up a whole new world of creativity. Writing over 4,000 songs, Wilson found solace and therapy in songwriting, allowing her to express herself and connect with others. Music became a calling and a way to navigate life's challenges.
The Power of Perseverance and Belief in Yourself
Lainey Wilson's journey in the music industry was far from easy. She faced rejection, financial struggles, and years of hard work before finding success. Despite the setbacks, Wilson's unwavering belief in herself and her talent kept her going. She remained determined, taking any opportunity to perform and share her music. Wilson's perseverance paid off when she signed a record deal, worked with renowned producer Jay Joyce, and released her breakout single 'Things a Man Oughta Know.' Her story serves as a reminder to never give up and to stay true to your dreams.
Lainey Wilson burst onto the country music scene in 2022 with her album Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’. That year, she won Female Vocalist of the Year and Best New Artist at the CMA’s. But for seven years before that, she struggled to make it in the high-pressure Nashville music scene. And before that, she was a kid from a tiny town in rural Louisiana with a dream of being a country star. She joins Guy to talk about how she handled the hard times, what she’s learned about the art of collaboration during the making of two acclaimed albums, and what defines her unique style, which she calls Bell Bottom Country.