Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
“It’s all incredible accomplishments, and I feel extremely grateful,” the country music star shares with PEOPLE.
For Lainey Wilson, it’s the small things that help her stay grounded.
“Staying true to who I am—whether it’s being a sister, friend, daughter, aunt, or dog mom—is what keeps me balanced,” the “Heart Like a Truck” artist shares with PEOPLE. “As long as I can maintain that, I’m able to be the best version of the artist I strive to be.”
Her latest album, Whirlwind, which dropped in August, perfectly captures the fast-paced year Wilson has had in her career.
“Country music is having a moment right now, and I’m proud to be a part of that movement,” says Wilson, 32.
The star recently concluded her Country’s Cool Again Tour, which included over 35 shows. Last month, she cohosted the 2024 CMA Awards alongside Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning, just days before performing during a Thanksgiving NFL halftime show in Dallas, reaching a packed stadium and millions of viewers.
“I get nervous before everything, whether it’s singing for 20 people, 200, or 40 million households during the Dallas Cowboys game,” Wilson admits. “If I stop feeling nervous, that’s when I’d start to worry.”
And her year isn’t over yet. On December 14, her Wildflowers and Wild Horses Tour will make a stop at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. T-Mobile, the official wireless partner of the show, is offering customers exclusive access to preferred tickets, even for sold-out performances. Magenta Status customers will also receive VIP access to events, including Wilson’s Magenta Saloon pop-up this weekend.
For the Bell Bottom Country artist, this upcoming show will be a full-circle moment.
“We’re bringing out Mae Estes and Tracy Lawrence, which is so special because Tracy Lawrence will be on my tour bill,” the “Watermelon Moonshine” singer says. “He took me on the road with him about three years ago, and I remember him standing side stage, watching every single one of my performances.”
Wilson’s rapid rise from opening act to headliner hasn’t come easily. For her, and many other women in the industry, advancing through the ranks is a challenging feat.
“There’s definitely a shift happening. I’m hearing more about female artists, but I still feel like we’re not fully there,” Wilson says. “The thing about women in country is, when they break through — and it’s hard to break through — they can endure and stand the test of time.”
In March, Wilson told Billboard that country girls have a lot to offer, and she tells PEOPLE that they are here to stay.
“The women breaking through right now, they’re going to be around for a long time,” she says. “It’s exciting to see more women coming up.”
Wilson’s career has also been marked by significant recognition. Earlier this year, she won the Grammy for Best Country Album and received another nomination in the same category for the 2025 ceremony. She also took home the 2024 CMA Award for Female Vocalist of the Year — the same night she hosted.
“I won’t lie, the recognition feels great,” Wilson admits. “It gives me that extra boost and keeps me motivated to keep doing what I’m doing.”
But for Wilson, there’s one recognition that “takes the cake.”
“When I was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry this year, that was better than any award I could ever receive,” she shares. “The Grand Ole Opry is a magical place. My parents took me there when I was nine.”
She continues, “I remember exactly where I was sitting, who I was watching, and how much of country music’s history has unfolded in that space. So many people who paved the way for me have walked through those doors.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Wilson has even more in store. She’s already working on new music and will kick off her Whirlwind European tour on March 4, with a performance in Zurich.
