Welcome to the world of Bell Bottom Country, a unique blend of classic and contemporary country music that has captivated fans worldwide. This distinctive style belongs to none other than Lainey Wilson, a Louisiana-born singer-songwriter who has taken the country music scene by storm.
From her humble beginnings in the small town of Baskin to her meteoric rise to stardom, Lainey Wilson’s music has always stood out. Known for her authentic, empowering lyrics and catchy melodies, she has quickly become one of the most influential figures in country music today.
In this comprehensive guide, we will celebrate the best of Lainey Wilson’s songs, exploring the narratives that reflect her personality, values, and beliefs. Buckle up for a memorable ride through the world of Bell Bottom Country!
The Early Days: Lainey Wilson’s Journey to Stardom
American country music singer-songwriter Lainey Wilson was born on May 19, 1992, in Baskin, Louisiana, a small town with a population of less than 300 people. Her father, Brian, was a farmer, and her mother, Michelle, was a schoolteacher. Wilson’s interest in music was evident at an early age, with her family often listening to classic country music by Buck Owens and Glen Campbell. As she once said, “Country music for me and my family, it was more than music. We lived the words to those songs.”
From a young age, Lainey Wilson showed clear signs of a promising music career. She started writing songs when she was nine years old and performed at local events and festivals. She also learned to play the guitar and piano by herself. When she was 19 years old, she moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to pursue her dream of becoming a country music star.
Lainey Wilson’s path to success wasn’t an easy one. After moving to Nashville in 2011, she spent years honing her craft and building her career from scratch. She lived in a camper trailer for three years while working odd jobs and playing gigs around town. She also started co-writing songs with other songwriters and pitching them to other artists.
It wasn’t until she signed a publishing deal with Sony/ATV Music Publishing in 2017 and a record deal with Broken Bow Records in 2018 that her dreams began to materialise.
Lainey Wilson’s Early Songs
Lainey Wilson first stepped into the music industry with her self-released album, “Lainey Wilson,” in 2014. This was followed by her second studio album, “Tougher,” in 2016, released on the Lone Chief label. These early works set the stage for her musical journey, showcasing her raw talent and giving a glimpse of the unique style she would come to develop. Even in these early stages, Wilson’s music hinted at the authenticity and storytelling ability that would become a staple of her work.
Redneck Hollywood: The EP That Started It All
Lainey Wilson’s first major-label release, the 2019 EP Redneck Hollywood, marked the beginning of her meteoric rise. Among the tracks on this standout project was “Things a Man Oughta Know,” which would later become her first No. 1 song on the Country Airplay chart. The success of this single set the stage for a string of hits, awards, and high-profile collaborations.
The “Bell Bottom Country” Era
In 2022, Wilson released her fourth studio album, “Bell Bottom Country.” This album marked her first entry into the top ten of the Country Albums chart and the Billboard 200 all-genre chart. The album showcases Wilson’s musical growth and her ability to create catchy, relatable tunes.
The lead single, “Heart Like a Truck,” also made it to the top ten of the Country Airplay and Country Songs charts. Another standout track from this album is “Watermelon Moonshine,” a song that demonstrates Wilson’s flair for storytelling and her knack for creating memorable melodies.
Lainey Wilson’s Top Songs: A Closer Look at Her Greatest Hits
From heartfelt ballads to foot-stomping anthems, Lainey Wilson’s music resonates with fans across the country music spectrum. Here are ten of her most popular songs, each showcasing her unique blend of talent, storytelling, and undeniable charm.
1. “Heart Like A Truck”
One of Lainey Wilson’s most memorable tunes, “Heart Like A Truck,” offers a poignant exploration of love, heartache, and resilience. As the lead single from her Bell Bottom Country album, this track highlights Wilson’s vulnerability and impressive vocal range, making it a standout among her discography.
2. “Wait in the Truck” (feat. Lainey Wilson) – HARDY
In this collaboration with fellow country artist HARDY, Lainey Wilson lends her distinctive voice to the catchy and captivating “Wait in the Truck.” The song’s success on the Country Airplay chart helped solidify Wilson’s status as one of the genre’s rising stars.
3. “Watermelon Moonshine”
Drawing comparisons to Deana Carter’s classic “Strawberry Wine,” Lainey Wilson’s “Watermelon Moonshine” serves as a nostalgic ode to simpler times. Featured on her Bell Bottom Country album, this track showcases Wilson’s penchant for storytelling and her ability to transport listeners through evocative lyrics and imagery.
4. “Things A Man Oughta Know”
Arguably the song that launched Lainey Wilson to stardom, “Things a Man Oughta Know” resonated with fans and critics alike. This heartfelt ballad, which explores the expectations placed on men in relationships, became Wilson’s first No. 1 song on the Country Airplay chart and remains a fan favourite.
5. “Dirty Looks”
Originally appearing on her Redneck Hollywood EP, “Dirty Looks” tells the story of a steamy encounter between Wilson and a handsome stranger in a bar. With its playful lyrics and sultry vibe, this track has become one of Lainey Wilson’s most beloved songs.
6. “Smell Like Smoke”
Featured on the soundtrack for the hit series Yellowstone, “Smell Like Smoke” combines Wilson’s signature “Bell Bottom Country” sound with a cinematic flair. Co-written by Wilson and a team of talented songwriters, this track offers a glimpse into the singer’s multifaceted personality.
7. “Hold My Halo”
Another standout from her Bell Bottom Country album, “Hold My Halo,” showcases Lainey Wilson’s ability to balance introspection with infectious melodies. This introspective track reveals a more vulnerable side of the singer, making it a favourite among fans and critics alike.
8. “Atta Girl”
With its empowering message and catchy chorus, “Atta Girl” has become an anthem for women everywhere. Featured on her Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ album, this track highlights Lainey Wilson’s talent for crafting songs that resonate with a wide audience.
9. “Weak-End”
Blending humour and relatability, “Weak-End” offers a lighthearted take on the challenges of balancing work and play. As one of Lainey Wilson’s earlier releases, this track showcases her ability to connect with listeners through witty lyrics and infectious melodies.
10. “Live Off”
One of Wilson’s personal favourites, “Live Off,” features on her Bell Bottom Country album and offers a heartfelt tribute to the simple pleasures in life. With its poetic lyrics and soothing melody, this track serves as a reminder of the things that truly matter.
Memorable Performances
Lainey Wilson’s live performances have become an essential part of her appeal as an artist. At the CMA Fest 2023, Wilson delivered a standout set, performing songs like “Hold My Halo,” “Smell Like Smoke,” and “Watermelon Moonshine.” The energy of her performance was palpable, with the crowd responding enthusiastically to each song.
One of the highlights of the set was when she performed her first No. 1 hit, “Things a Man Oughta Know,” a moment that underscored the impact she’s made in the country music scene. The performance ended on a high note with the award-winning “Heart Like a Truck,” leaving no doubt about Wilson’s potential for future arena headline slots.
Lainey Wilson’s Impact on the Country Music Scene
With her unique blend of talent, storytelling, and charisma, Lainey Wilson has left an indelible mark on the country music landscape. Her growing collection of chart-topping hits, celebrated collaborations, and unforgettable live performances have solidified her status as one of the genre’s brightest stars.
As Lainey Wilson’s career continues to soar, fans can expect even more memorable songs and unforgettable moments from this talented singer-songwriter. With her powerful voice, captivating stories, and undeniable charm, there’s no doubt that Lainey Wilson’s music will continue to resonate with fans for years to come.
