Lainey Wilson might be a GRAMMY-award-winner, a chart-topping hitmaker, and a multi-time Entertainer of the Year honoree, but that doesn’t exempt her from encountering insecurities along the way. With the creation of her latest album, Whirlwind, Wilson unlocked a new chapter of confidence that has not only solidified her place as one of the most influential women in country music but also reinforced her role as a trailblazer for all females in the genre.
“With this record, I’m learning to trust myself,” she told NME of Whirlwind. “I’m stepping into a confidence I lacked on the first or second record… I can go on stage now and tell my band exactly what I’m thinking. That’s been a game-changer.”
The Louisiana native is no stranger to fighting for herself time and time again in a male-dominated industry. Even from the start of her transition from the small-town lifestyle to carving out a name for herself in Music City, Wilson has always remained authentic. That resilience has been the driving force behind her skyrocketing success and serves as a reminder to other up and coming females that they can do the same.
“It will eat you alive,” she admits of the self-doubt. “I told myself, ‘It’s gotta go because it’s stopping me from doing what I’m meant to do. Nobody has time for that.’”
Wilson goes on to admits she has found the strength to keep pushing through any signs of fear or uncertainty from watching the strong women who came before her do just that with their heads held high.
“Getting to know women like Miranda Lambert and Reba McEntire has shown me this fight isn’t new – it’s a generational struggle,” she shared. “I’ve got no choice. I have to carry the torch for them, too.”
The “4x4xU” singer has been keeping a close eye on the next generation of women making waves in the genre and as a result is feeling encouraged that country music as a whole is in good hands right now. She particularly called out rising stars like Megan Moroney and Ella Langley who are “having their moment” and giving her hope that the pool of powerful songstress’ will continue to expand and flourish.
“There are so many talented women who can write the hell out of a song,” she admitted. “I hope it keeps growing. But it’s still a challenge – I’m still navigating it myself.”
At the end of the day, the commonality among the most popular female acts in the business is their dedication to telling stories that offer a window into their real lives. It’s that kind of authenticity that resonates best with listeners all over the world.
“I write about the way I was raised, who I am, and what I stand for,” Wilson added.
Her signature bell bottoms and beloved Louisiana drawl will make their way to stages beyond the U.S. starting this March as part of her upcoming Whirlwind European Tour. This trek that features stops across Switzerland, Germany, the UK and more comes in addition to her various festival appearances throughout the summer.
The post Lainey Wilson On Overcoming Self-Doubt And Carrying The Torch For The Women Of Country Music appeared first on Country Now.
