Lainey Wilson Shines as a Trailblazer at the 60th ACM Awards
Country music fans are celebrating Lainey Wilson’s meteoric rise as she cements her status as a true trailblazer in the industry. At the 60th Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, Wilson joined legends Reba McEntire and Miranda Lambert for the world premiere of their powerful new collaboration, “Trailblazer.” This unforgettable moment underscored Wilson's influence and her commitment to honoring both country traditions and the next generation of artists.
Lainey Wilson: A Qwner in the Country Scene
Lainey Wilson has quickly become a household name in country music, known for her authentic storytelling and signature Southern sound. Her Louisiana roots are evident in every lyric she writes. During a heartfelt songwriting session on Miranda Lambert’s back porch, Wilson helped pen “Trailblazer.” The song celebrates women in country music and pays tribute to the icons who paved the way for today’s stars.
The trio’s decision to include personal references—like Wilson’s home state and Lambert’s hit “Kerosene”—turned the song into an anthem of gratitude and hope. In an exclusive Billboard feature, Wilson reflected on how the song is meant for generations of listeners, empowering women while honoring their musical heroes.
A Historic Performance at the 60th ACM Awards
The ACM Awards marked a landmark celebration with Wilson performing not just as an artist, but as a nominee and award-winner. The night’s headlining moment was the premiere of "Trailblazer," a song described as divinely inspired by all those involved. Wilson, McEntire, and Lambert delivered a moving tribute, blending harmonies that resonated with both seasoned fans and newcomers.
McEntire, who hosted the event for a record 18th time, shared the stage with Wilson and other top names to celebrate the genre’s past, present, and future. The full list of performers and nominees reinforced Wilson’s spot among today’s country elite. Her album “Whirlwind” and the hit “4x4xU” also garnered nominations, highlighting her ongoing impact.
The Story Behind "Trailblazer"
“Trailblazer” stands out not only for its powerful vocals but also for its message of camaraderie among women in the industry. As Wilson explained, the song is about lifting each other up, passing the torch, and creating a sense of family among artists. The writing process was full of laughter, nostalgia, and mutual appreciation.
Behind the scenes, Wilson and her co-writers aimed to create a track with universal appeal. The lyrics feature subtle Easter eggs that reference each singer’s journey. “We were just having a conversation about how both [Lambert and McEntire] have influenced me and [about] passing the torch and blazing trails for each other,” Wilson told Billboard.
A Proud Night for Country Music
The 60th ACM Awards, streamed globally on Prime Video, brought together legends and rising stars. In addition to her performance, Lainey Wilson was featured alongside some of the most respected voices in the business, highlighting the unity and diversity within country music. To read more about the historic ACM Awards broadcast and its star-studded moments, visit The Music Universe.
Conclusion: Lainey Wilson’s Lasting Impact
Lainey Wilson’s journey from her Louisiana hometown to center stage at the ACM Awards is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and passion for country music. “Trailblazer” isn’t just a song—it’s a rallying cry for artists and fans alike to honor those who came before and look ahead to the next trail being blazed. With each performance and collaboration, Wilson ensures that country music will continue to inspire across generations. Want to experience more from this groundbreaking night? Be sure to catch highlights from the 60th ACM Awards and stream "Trailblazer" wherever you listen to music.