Lainey Wilson, a Grammy-winning and multi-platinum singer-songwriter from Louisiana, shares her inspiring journey to Nashville. She discusses the years of rejection she faced before her breakthrough and emphasizes the importance of resilience and family support. Lainey reflects on the balance between authenticity and industry expectations, revealing how taking risks fueled her dreams. The conversation also touches on morning routines, ideal downtime activities, and the joy of storytelling through music.
Lainey Wilson's journey illustrates the importance of perseverance and staying authentic in the face of industry pressures and rejection.
Support from family and engaging in self-care practices are crucial for Lainey in navigating the emotional challenges of her rising fame.
Deep dives
Lainey Wilson's Musical Journey
Lainey Wilson has emerged as a significant figure in the music industry with her distinct sound, dubbed 'Bell Bottom Country.' Her upbringing in Louisiana fostered a love for storytelling through music, leading her to write her first song at just nine years old. Facing years of rejection, Wilson persevered in Nashville, notably living in a camper while chasing her dreams. Her breakthrough came with the hit 'Things a Man Oughta Know,' which not only reached number one but also cemented her place in country music history.
Staying True to Authenticity
Throughout her career, Lainey has been pressured to conform to industry standards but consistently chose to remain authentic to herself. Reflecting on her experiences in Nashville, she recalls being urged to write commercially viable songs that didn’t align with her true voice. She recognizes the importance of taking advice from those who have achieved success rather than those who merely seek to create a marketable persona. By staying true to herself, she believes she can grow while still retaining her unique flair.
Family Support and Personal Growth
Lainey credit her parents' unwavering support as a crucial element of her success, as they encouraged her musical ambitions from a young age. Despite facing numerous challenges, including financial struggles and the demands of the industry, their belief in her talent helped her persist through difficult times. Her first paid performance at a local convenience store and impromptu songs in Walmart exemplify her early exposure to performing. This foundation instilled a sense of confidence that kept her on track despite setbacks.
Finding Balance and Resilience
Lainey's rise to fame has not been without its emotional challenges, as she navigates the pressures of success and the loss of loved ones. She emphasizes the significance of having a strong support network of family and friends to help her through tough times, sharing that vulnerability is essential to maintaining her authenticity. Recognizing her need to recharge, she engages in self-care practices, such as daily devotionals and spending time outdoors. This balance allows her to remain grounded while continuing to pour energy into her artistic endeavors.
Grammy-award-winning and multi-platinum singer-songwriter Lainey Wilson has taken the music industry by storm with hits like “Heart Like a Truck” and “Watermelon Moonshine”, solidifying her status as a next-generation icon. Lainey has broken records and reached new milestones, all without compromising her voice. And while it may seem like Lainey is an overnight sensation, she’ll be the first to tell you that her success took time - she faced years of rejection and heartbreak before making it big, but she never gave up on her dreams. Lainey joined Hoda Kotb on Making Space earlier this summer, reflecting on her career, her music and her love of storytelling, marking a milestone as Hoda's 50th guest. To celebrate the release of Lainey's new album "Whirlwind", Hoda is revisiting this very special conversation.
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