Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist: GRAMMY NOMINEE Lainey Wilson
Release Date: January 31, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of NBC's "Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist," host Willie Geist engages in an in-depth conversation with Lainey Wilson, a rising star in the country music scene. Lainey, hailed as the Country Music Association (CMA) Entertainer of the Year and Grammy Award winner for Best Country Album, shares her inspiring journey from a small farming town in Baskin, Louisiana, to the grand stages of Nashville and beyond.
Early Life and Aspirations
Lainey Wilson's roots trace back to Baskin, Louisiana, a close-knit farming community with a population of just over 200. Growing up on her family's farm, Lainey developed a strong work ethic and a deep sense of community. Her father's dedication as a farmer and her mother's role as a schoolteacher instilled in her the values of hard work and perseverance.
At the tender age of five, Lainey discovered her passion for music. This early passion was nurtured by her parents, who supported her musical endeavors from kindergarten graduation performances to writing her first song at nine years old. Reflecting on her beginnings, Lainey shares:
"Even at five years old, I knew I was like, I like this. I really like this." [18:04]
Moving to Nashville and Struggles
Determined to pursue her dreams, Lainey moved to Nashville at nineteen, living in a trailer on a family friend's property. The transition was challenging, marked by years of rejection and relentless effort. Despite the obstacles, Lainey remained steadfast, emphasizing the importance of resilience:
"It's been a long climb, putting all these pieces together, working hard, not taking no for an answer." [00:51]
Her perseverance paid off a decade later when she achieved her first number one song in 2021, solidifying her place in the industry.
Breakthrough and Success
Lainey's breakthrough came with her hit single "Heart Like a Truck" and her award-winning album "Bell Bottom Country." Her success didn't come overnight but was the result of years of dedication and honing her craft. Lainey discusses the significance of her album "Whirlwind," which encapsulates her experiences amidst rapid changes:
"I was making dang sure that both of my feet were planted on the ground, and I'm in a happy, healthy relationship..." [08:19]
Influence of Mentors and Idols
Dolly Parton is a significant influence on Lainey's career, serving as both an idol and a guiding light. Lainey admires Dolly's authenticity, kindness, and unwavering dedication:
"I try to navigate situations like that [Dolly's approach]... she would just kill people with kindness." [34:20]
Additionally, Lainey collaborates with Miranda Lambert, whom she considers a sister in the industry. Miranda's support and mentorship have been pivotal in Lainey's journey:
"She reminds me, she's like, you driving this thing, so you have to have people like that in your life." [16:21]
Collaboration with Miranda Lambert
Lainey's collaboration with Miranda Lambert on her new album "Whirlwind" showcases the strong bonds within the country music community. Miranda's genuine care and support have helped Lainey navigate the highs and lows of her career:
"She's been through it too. So she knows." [16:59]
Impact of Acting on Career (Yellowstone)
Lainey's role as Abby in the fifth season of "Yellowstone" marked a significant milestone, bridging her music career with acting. This opportunity allowed her to reach a broader audience and solidify her presence in popular culture:
"People had not put a face to a name... then Yellowstone happened." [29:19]
Her appearance on the show not only showcased her versatility but also deepened fans' connection to her music.
Dealing with Fame and Success
With fame comes the challenge of maintaining authenticity. Lainey discusses the adjustments required to handle increased recognition while staying true to herself:
"I still feel like me. I just feel like I got my security friend just in case." [42:17]
Despite the changes, Lainey remains grounded, thanks to the unwavering support of her family who continue to treat her the same:
"They treat me just the same. I mean, they still treat me like little Laney." [43:20]
Upcoming Projects and Tours
Lainey is gearing up to release her new album "Whirlwind" on August 23rd and is actively touring on the Country's Cool Again Tour. Her live performances, characterized by hits like "Heart Like a Truck" and "Wildflowers," promise to captivate audiences everywhere:
"It's always Heart Like a Truck. It's the hits, I guess you could say." [45:09]
Lainey also teases future collaborations, including a potential project with Jelly Roll, further expanding her musical repertoire.
Lainey Wilson’s Advice and Philosophy
Reflecting on her journey, Lainey emphasizes the importance of authenticity, perseverance, and having no backup plans:
"You never had a plan B. I never did." [39:30]
Her advice to aspiring artists is clear: stay true to yourself, work relentlessly, and embrace the support of a strong community.
Conclusion
Lainey Wilson's story is a testament to the power of determination, community, and staying true to one's roots. From her humble beginnings in Baskin to her status as a Grammy-winning artist, Lainey's journey offers inspiration to many. Willie Geist's conversation with Lainey provides listeners with a deeper understanding of the dedication and passion that drive her success.
Key Takeaways:
- Lainey's early passion for music was nurtured by her supportive family.
- Persistence through years of rejection led to her eventual breakthrough.
- Mentors like Dolly Parton and peers like Miranda Lambert played crucial roles in her career.
- Her role in "Yellowstone" expanded her influence beyond music.
- Lainey remains grounded despite her fame, thanks to her strong community ties.
- Upcoming projects and tours highlight her continued growth and commitment to her craft.
Notable Quotes:
- "I knew it. I knew that I was going to be there one day." [21:19]
- "If you have a plan B, then plan A is never gonna work." [39:37]
- "This is who you are... from Baskin, Louisiana, on a bigger stage." [44:36]
Lainey Wilson's journey underscores the essence of hard work, authenticity, and the enduring support of community and mentors. As she continues to rise in the country music landscape, her story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere.