'A Sense Of Hopefulness': Lainey Wilson Reflects On Her Journey To Country Stardom

Lainey Wilson's new album, Whirlwind, captures her Nashville journey from a small-town dreamer to Grammy winner, overcoming years of challenges, including living in a camper for three years.

Published on Aug 25, 2024  |  06:53 PM IST |  28.4K
Lainey Wilson Reflects On Her Journey To Country Stardom
Lainey Wilson (PC: Instagram/Lainey Wilson)

In the years leading up to the release of her new album, Whirlwind, Lainey Wilson had to overcome many challenges. After releasing her debut record a decade ago, Wilson releases her new album. According to The Associated Press, her latest project represents her Nashville journey - a "whirlwind."

Her dream of becoming a country music star led the Yellowstone star to move from the 200-person town of Baskin, Louisiana, to Nashville thirteen years ago. Wilson earned her first Grammy in February. For three years, she lived in a Flagstaff bumper-pull camper trailer in her mentor's studio parking lot. 

Her return to her former home in 2022 triggered "sadness" within her as she relived some of her darkest memories. 

"I feel a sense of hopefulness standing here, but I also feel a little sadness," she confessed to Good Morning America at the time. "There were a lot of dark days for me. I was very lonely. I didn't know hardly anybody in town." Louisiana-born aspiring country star had to adjust to the weather in Tennessee.

Wilson talked about the harsh conditions she endured in the winter, including wearing three or four jackets and three pairs of socks to stay warm. She said she might have reconsidered if she had known how hard it would be. Despite acknowledging the challenges, she knew enduring them was the only option. "It has been hard, but this is my only option," she said.

On Theo Von's "This Past Weekend" podcast in 2023, Wilson said she "bummed" electricity, water, and Wi-Fi from her mentor's studio just to survive. Also, her propane tank ran out, her shower head broke, and her camper trailer flooded, so she had to shower with a water hose.

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During a particularly rough day, she remembered an unforgettable experience. She sat in the shower as the water rose to ankle-deep levels, and the propane was running low, making the water cold. Even worse, the showerhead fell off, leaving her with just a hose. Her reaction was, "Whatever." Despite the discomfort, she found a way to push through, accepting the situation with a sense of humor.


Wilson said she believes her career panned out exactly how it was meant to, despite humble beginnings. Wilson explained the heartbreak she experienced at the beginning of her career in an interview with Fox News Digital in May.

Despite early rejections, Wilson's determination was only strengthened by them. She attributes her tenacious nature to her upbringing. "I am hardheaded," Wilson admitted, adding that her parents share the same outlook.

Wilson told Fox News Digital that her early career challenges shaped her path in a significant way. Through these experiences, she was able to connect with others through shared struggles, which contributed to her growth.

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In Wilson's work, she strives to evoke emotion and create a connection with her audience. It is clear to her that her story of perseverance will resonate with many who have faced similar challenges. To her, this connection is what drives her and gives meaning to her journey.

ALSO READ: Sabrina Carpenter Opens Up About Falling In Love While Growing Older: ‘Don’t Want This To Sound Sad But...’

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