Lainey Wilson: Riding the ‘Whirlwind’ to Nine Number Ones and Global Stardom

Lainey Wilson is indisputably the dominant force in country music today, continuing her incredible run of success as she secures her ninth career number one single, “Somewhere Over Laredo.” This chart-topping track, which she recently performed at the 99th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, is the centerpiece of her acclaimed Whirlwind (Deluxe) album. The single’s success has translated into critical recognition, anchoring two of her recent GRAMMY Award nominations, including Best Country Song. Released via Broken Bow Records, “Somewhere Over Laredo” also marked the label’s significant 50th single to peak at number one on country radio, underscoring the massive impact of Wilson’s music.

The New Queen of Country

The ascent of the multi-award winner has been nothing short of historic. Variety recently dubbed her “The reigning current standard-bearer for women in country,” a title earned through a dizzying array of accomplishments. This past spring, Wilson swept the 60th ACM Awards, winning four major honors including her second consecutive Entertainer of the Year. She followed that triumph by serving as the solo female host for the 59th CMA Awards—the first since Reba McEntire in 1991—where she also took home three trophies, including the coveted Entertainer of the Year and Album of the Year (Whirlwind). Critics continue to praise her work; Billboard called “Somewhere Over Laredo” “one of her most commanding, dynamic vocal performances to date.”

Beyond the Awards: Touring and New Ventures

Wilson’s musical momentum is matched by her expanding presence in the entertainment world. She recently concluded sold-out North American stops on her extensive Whirlwind World Tour, including shows at New York’s Madison Square Garden and Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, and she will continue to tour across Australia and New Zealand next year. For fans looking to extend the holiday cheer, Wilson recently released her Peace, Love, & Cowboys (Holiday Edition) EP, available in various vinyl formats and CD. She has also leveraged her growing platform into brand partnerships, launching her fourth collection with Wrangler and creating her own Golden West Boots and jewelry lines. Furthermore, after her role in Paramount’s “Yellowstone,” she is set to make her feature film acting debut in the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s Reminders of Him next year.

From selling out major arenas to collaborating with artists like Miranda Lambert, Reba McEntire, and Jelly Roll, and highlighting her Heart Like A Truck Fund on the cover of US Weekly’s Humankind Issue, Lainey Wilson is achieving milestones at a breathtaking pace. Her success is not just a passing moment; it is a full-blown Whirlwind that is reshaping country music. Make sure to stream and purchase the deluxe album and catch her on the road as her global journey continues.