Lainey Wilson
Biography
Lainey Denay Wilson was born on May 19, 1992, in Baskin, Louisiana, a small town with a population of about 250 people. Her father, Brian, is a farmer, and her mother, Michelle, is a schoolteacher. Wilson developed an interest in music at a young age, influenced by classic country artists like Buck Owens and Glen Campbell that her family listened to. She began writing songs at age nine and learned to play the guitar from her father at eleven. During high school, she even worked as a Hannah Montana impersonator, performing at various events across several states.
Move to Nashville and Early Career
After graduating from high school in 2011, Wilson moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue her country music career. She initially lived in a camper trailer in the parking lot of a recording studio. The studio owner, Jerry Cupit, also a Baskin native whom her grandfather had once helped, mentored her and taught her about songwriting. These early years in Nashville were challenging, but they taught her perseverance. She released her first self-titled album on the Cupit label in 2014, followed by a second album, "Tougher," in 2016, which made it onto the Billboard Top Country Albums chart.
Breakthrough Success
Wilson's career began to gain significant momentum after signing a publishing deal in 2018 and a record deal with BBR Music Group in 2019. Her 2019 EP, "Redneck Hollywood," featured her songs being included in the popular television series "Yellowstone." Her breakout single, "Things a Man Oughta Know," was released in 2020 and reached number one on the American country songs chart in 2021. This song was part of her 2021 major-label debut album, "Sayin' What I'm Thinkin'."
Bell Bottom Country and Acting Debut
Wilson released her critically acclaimed album "Bell Bottom Country" in 2022. The album, which draws from 70s rock and outlaw country, helped solidify her unique "Bell Bottom Country" style. The album's success led to numerous accolades. In addition to her music, Wilson made her acting debut in 2022, joining the cast of "Yellowstone" in its fifth season.
Awards and Recognition
Lainey Wilson has received numerous awards throughout her career. At the 2023 CMA Awards, she was the most-nominated artist and won five awards, including the prestigious Entertainer of the Year. She also won a Grammy Award for Best Country Album for "Bell Bottom Country." Her list of honors includes multiple Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, where she has also been named Entertainer of the Year. In May 2025, she was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry.