Lainey Wilson is not just another rising star in country music—she’s a full-blown phenomenon. From her humble beginnings in a tiny Louisiana town to earning CMA’s Entertainer of the Year award twice and taking the Grammy stage, Wilson has captured the hearts of fans with her raw talent, magnetic personality, and deeply personal songwriting. Her story is one of grit, perseverance, and Southern charm—a journey that blends old-school country roots with modern edge. In an era when authenticity matters more than ever, Lainey Wilson stands out as the real deal.
Quick Bio Information
Full Name: Lainey Denay Wilson
Date Of Birth: May 19, 1992
Age (As Of 2025): 33
Birthplace: Baskin, Louisiana, U.S.
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Profession: Country Singer-Songwriter
Genres: Country, Bell-Bottom Country
Active Since: 2011
Record Labels: Cupit, Lone Chief, BBR Music Group
Breakout Hit: Things a Man Oughta Know
Albums: Lainey Wilson (2014), Tougher (2016), Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ (2021), Bell Bottom Country (2022), Whirlwind (2024)
Notable Awards: CMA Entertainer of the Year (2023, 2025), Grammy Winner (2024)
TV Debut: Yellowstone (2022)
Film Debut: Reminders of Him (2026)
Business Venture: Bell Bottoms Up (2024)
Partner: Devlin “Duck” Hodges (Engaged 2025)
Social Media Presence: Viral TikTok Star, Instagram Influencer
Musical Style: Country with Southern Rock, Pop, and Classic Influences
Early Life In Baskin, Louisiana: Where Her Country Roots Began
Lainey Denay Wilson was born on May 19, 1992, in the tiny town of Baskin, Louisiana—a close-knit community of just 250 people. Her upbringing was steeped in country values. Her father, Brian, worked as a farmer, while her mother, Michelle, taught school. Classic country legends like Buck Owens and Glen Campbell were the soundtrack of her childhood. In interviews, Wilson has often said that country music wasn’t just something they listened to—it was something they lived. That deep emotional connection to storytelling through song laid the foundation for everything she would become.
Dreaming Big: From Hannah Montana Parties To Nashville Streets
Wilson’s journey to the big stage began in the most unexpected of ways. As a teenager, she booked gigs impersonating Hannah Montana at parties, fairs, and hospitals. She even performed at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, showing early signs of the heartfelt performer she would become. In 2011, shortly after graduating high school, she made the bold move to Nashville. With little money, she lived in a camper trailer behind a recording studio. The studio owner paid her utility bills, giving her just enough support to chase her dreams. She later reflected that those hard years taught her resilience and work ethic—two qualities that now define her career.
The Long Climb: Independent Albums And Her First Breaks
Before the world knew her name, Lainey Wilson was laying the groundwork for success with independent music releases. Her self-titled debut album came out in 2014 through Cupit Records, followed by Tougher in 2016 under Lone Chief. These early projects didn’t make national headlines, but they earned her a loyal grassroots following. She signed a publishing deal with Sony/ATV in 2018 and soon after secured management representation. By then, her blend of southern storytelling and fresh perspective was turning heads in the Nashville songwriting community.
Breakthrough Moment: How “Things A Man Oughta Know” Changed Everything
Wilson’s big break came with a song that resonated across generations. Released in 2020 through BBR Music Group, “Things a Man Oughta Know” catapulted her into the spotlight. The song went to No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart and became a defining hit. Its stripped-down honesty and clever lyrics showcased her authenticity. The song was included in her 2021 album Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’, a project that laid bare her personality and songwriting strength. Critics praised it for being bold, personal, and fully formed—a true introduction to Lainey Wilson.
Bell Bottom Country: Defining Her Signature Style
With the 2022 release of Bell Bottom Country, Lainey Wilson didn’t just drop an album—she branded a movement. Describing her music as “bell-bottom country,” Wilson created a fusion of vintage style, modern truth, and unapologetic attitude. The album featured hit songs like “Heart Like a Truck,” earned her Grammy recognition, and further cemented her position in the genre. It also connected visually and culturally with fans through its retro styling and throwback flair. This was more than music—it was a vibe, a lifestyle, and a brand she proudly owned.
Taking Over The Stage: Awards, Tours, And Entertainer Of The Year
The country music world took notice. In 2023, Wilson made history at the CMA Awards by winning Entertainer of the Year—becoming the first woman to do so since Taylor Swift in 2009. She repeated the win in 2025, an even bigger testament to her consistency and appeal. By then, she had racked up multiple Grammy nominations and wins, as well as more than a dozen Academy of Country Music Awards. Her headlining tours—including the Country With a Flair Tour and Whirlwind World Tour—sold out across the country, drawing fans of all ages.
More Than Music: Acting Debut And Bell Bottoms Up Bar
In 2022, Wilson branched out from music with her acting debut on the hit TV series Yellowstone, where she played a character named Abby. It was a fitting role, allowing her to sing, act, and bring her real-life personality to screen. Then in 2024, she launched Bell Bottoms Up, a bar, Cajun restaurant, and live music venue in downtown Nashville. The three-story hotspot not only celebrates her Louisiana roots but also gives back to the music scene that built her. It’s another example of Wilson expanding her influence while staying true to herself.
Lainey And Love: Her Relationship With Devlin “Duck” Hodges
While Wilson’s career was exploding, so was her personal life. In May 2023, she went public with her relationship with former NFL quarterback Devlin “Duck” Hodges. The couple had actually been dating for two years in private before appearing together at the ACM Awards. Their bond is rooted in shared values and mutual support. In February 2025, they announced their engagement. Both are proud supporters of the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team Hodges once played for. Their love story, much like Wilson’s music, is grounded in loyalty and southern charm.
Her Sound And Influences: From Dolly Parton To Southern Rock
Wilson’s music draws from a wide well of influences—country legends, classic rock, and southern grit. She’s often named Dolly Parton as her guiding light, even writing a tribute song called “WWDD” (What Would Dolly Do). She also credits Lee Ann Womack for shaping her belief in heartfelt lyrics. Critics have compared her vocal tone and raw storytelling to Miranda Lambert, while her swagger and roots-rock edge recall artists like Chris Stapleton. Yet through it all, Wilson has carved out her own sound—distinct, honest, and unmistakably Lainey.
Viral Fame And Social Media: When Lainey Broke The Internet
In late 2022, Wilson unexpectedly went viral—not for a song, but for a concert video. A TikTok clip of her performing in leopard-print pants caught fire online, with viewers fixating on her curves and style. Instead of shying away, she embraced the moment with humor and grace. She joked about her “backside fame” and encouraged viewers to stick around for the music. The result? An even bigger fanbase that connected with her down-to-earth personality and quick wit. It proved that Wilson could ride the wave of viral fame without losing her authenticity.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next For Lainey Wilson In Music And Film
In 2024, Wilson released her fifth studio album Whirlwind, a Grammy-nominated project that deepened her catalog and storytelling. The lead single “Hang Tight Honey” quickly climbed the charts, and a duet with Keith Urban titled “Go Home W U” gained national airplay. Looking ahead to 2026, Wilson will make her feature film debut in Reminders of Him, a movie based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel. With acting, business ventures, and more music on the horizon, she’s proving there’s no limit to what she can do.
Final Thoughts: Why Lainey Wilson Is Country’s Brightest Star
Lainey Wilson’s rise from rural Louisiana to country music’s main stage is a testament to vision, work ethic, and heart. She’s not just performing songs—she’s living them. With every chord and lyric, she invites fans into her story, offering a blend of grit, grace, and fearless authenticity. As she continues to evolve—whether through music, acting, or entrepreneurial ventures—Lainey Wilson remains one of country’s most inspiring modern voices. In every way, she’s proof that staying true to your roots is the strongest path to stardom.
FAQs About Lainey Wilson
Is Lainey Wilson Married?
As of 2025, Lainey Wilson is engaged to Devlin “Duck” Hodges, a former NFL quarterback. The couple announced their engagement in February 2025 after dating privately for two years.
What Is Bell-Bottom Country?
Bell-bottom country is Lainey Wilson’s self-described musical style. It blends traditional country storytelling with retro flair, Southern rock energy, and a touch of pop. It’s also her fashion statement and brand identity.
What Is Lainey Wilson’s Most Popular Song?
Her breakout hit is “Things a Man Oughta Know,” which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart in 2021 and became a signature song in her career.
Has Lainey Wilson Won A Grammy?
Yes. She won a Grammy Award for Bell Bottom Country in 2024 and received a nomination for Whirlwind at the 2025 Grammys.
What Show Did Lainey Wilson Act In?
Wilson made her acting debut in Yellowstone (Season 5) in 2022, playing a character named Abby.
What Is Bell Bottoms Up?
Bell Bottoms Up is Lainey Wilson’s bar, restaurant, and music venue in downtown Nashville. It opened in May 2024 and celebrates her Louisiana roots.
Where Is Lainey Wilson From?
She was born and raised in Baskin, Louisiana, a small town known for its strong sense of community and Southern traditions.
Is Lainey Wilson Still Making Music?
Absolutely. Her 2024 album Whirlwind was nominated for a Grammy, and her world tour continues in 2025. She’s also expanding into film and business.
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