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Full Breakdown

Lainey Wilson's Rise in Country Music and Upcoming Milestones

10/11/2025, 2:59:58 PM

Early Career and Breakthrough

Lainey Wilson, a native of Baskin, Louisiana, has established herself as a prominent figure in country music, but her journey has been marked by perseverance. After moving to Nashville in 2011, she lived in a camper trailer while pursuing her dream. The phrase "10-year town" aptly describes her experience, as it took nearly a decade for her to gain recognition. Wilson's breakthrough came with her 2020 hit "Things a Man Oughta Know," which led to her touring with Jason Aldean in 2021. By 2022, she was awarded New Female Artist of the Year at the ACM Awards, propelling her career forward.

Upcoming Performances and Events

Wilson's popularity continues to soar, with her scheduled to headline the Stagecoach Music Festival in 2026 alongside Cody Johnson and Post Malone. Additionally, she is currently on her "Whirlwind World Tour," which began in August 2024 and includes a notable performance at Madison Square Garden on October 10, 2025. This concert is her only East Coast show for the tour, making it a highly anticipated event for fans.

Collaboration with Post Malone

Recently, Wilson made headlines for her surprise duet with Post Malone during the grand opening of his Nashville bar, Posty’s. The event attracted over 30,000 fans and featured a setlist of country covers, including their collaborative song "Nosedive" from Malone's upcoming album, *F-1 Trillion*. Malone, who had initially imposed a rule against performing original songs, made an exception for Wilson, stating, “I swear she’s gonna make it worth it.” Their performance showcased both artists' chemistry and musical prowess.

Fashion and Personal Life

In addition to her musical achievements, Wilson is known for her distinctive fashion sense, particularly her signature bell-bottoms. Following her engagement to football player Devlin “Duck” Hodges, she has hinted at potential changes to her wardrobe for their upcoming wedding, teasing that she might reserve her bell-bottoms for the reception. Wilson has expressed excitement about planning her wedding and shared that she and Hodges have a shared appreciation for Eric Church's music.

Hosting the CMA Awards

Wilson is set to make history as the first female artist to solo-host the CMA Awards since Reba McEntire in 1991. Scheduled for November 19, 2025, at Nashville's Bridgestone Arena, the event will see Wilson tied for the most nominations with six, including Entertainer of the Year. She has expressed her eagerness to engage the audience and involve fellow artists during the ceremony.

Conclusion

Lainey Wilson's trajectory in country music exemplifies hard work and dedication. With her upcoming performances, collaborations, and historical hosting role at the CMA Awards, she continues to solidify her status as a leading figure in the genre. As she prepares for these milestones, Wilson remains a source of inspiration for aspiring artists and fans alike.