Country music fans, gather ’round!
Your new queen bee is here, and her name’s Lainey Wilson—or Abby, the local musician who stole the heart of Dutton’s ranch hand Ryan on the hit series Yellowstone.
But how old is she? Find out Lainey Wilson age, early struggles, and accomplishments here!
How Old Is Lainey Wilson?
Lainey Wilson (born May 19, 1992) is 32. She grew up in Baskin, Louisiana, a small town of fewer than 300 people.
When Lainey wasn’t listening to Tim McGraw, Patsy Cline, or Glen Campbell, she was out working in the corn and cotton fields alongside her farmer dad, Brian.
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It was Brian who taught her some guitar chords, and by the age of 9, she had already written her first song. But it was a trip to Dollywood that convinced her what she wanted to do in life—perform!
Early Career Challenges
Lainey was 19 when she moved to Nashville, Tennessee to chase her dream. For three years, she lived in a Flagstaff camper trailer.
She hustled hard, knocking on doors along Music Row, handing out demos, and waiting for that big break. To get noticed, she wore bell bottoms, which would become her signature style.
But as gifted as she is, success didn’t come easy. Turns out, she’s “too country for country.” Her deep twang and even deeper songwriting didn’t quite fit the pop-heavy sound of modern country music.
But Lainey had already spent a decade writing music, and giving up wasn’t an option. So, she stayed the course and released two albums: Lainey Wilson (2014) and Tougher (2016).
Still, Lainey was far from a popular act. But thanks to a TV series, that would soon change.
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Music and Acting
If you’re a Yellowstone fan, chances are you’ve already heard Lainey’s music. Several of her songs, like “Working Overtime,” “Small Town Girl” and “Smell Like Smoke,” were featured in the show’s early seasons.
Who could’ve predicted she’d end up joining the cast? Well, certainly not Lainey!
Taylor Sheridan, Yellowstone’s co-creator, liked her music so much that he created a character that’s pretty much her (fashion sense and all!). She would play Ryan’s love interest Abby, a local musician.
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The opportunity came around the same time her father suffered a near-fatal stroke and fungal infection that left him hospital-bound for a month. Lainey almost quit filming to stay by his side.
Glad she didn’t because the mega-hit series would ultimately propel her career. And the best part? Her dad, who lost an eye but made a remarkable recovery, got to witness his daughter’s rise to stardom.
Achievements
The past few years have been pretty amazing for Lainey. At 31, she’s already collected some heavy hardware, including:
- Grammy Best Country Album for Bell Bottom Country (2024)
- CMA Female Vocalist of the Year (2023)
- CMA Entertainer of the Year (2023)
- CMA Musical Event of the Year (2023)
- CMA Video of the Year (2023)
- CMA Album of the Year (2023)
- ACM Female Artist of the Year (2023)
- CMA New Artist of the Year (2022)
- ACM New Female Artist of the Year (2021)
Also, she’s released multiple chart-topping singles such as:
Fun Facts About Lainey Wilson
Here are some cute things about Lainey:
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- Lainey owns tons of thrifted and vintage tops to go with her bell bottoms.
- She absolutely loves to accessorize with hats and unique jewelry pieces.
- She used to impersonate Hanna Montana and perform for sick children in hospitals.
- Her childhood hero? None other than Dolly Parton!
- She was hungover when she wrote “Things a Man Oughta Know.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What Age Did Lainey Wilson Break Through in Music?
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Lainey was 26 when she signed with her first major label, Broken Bow Records. But it wasn’t until she was 29 when her real breakthrough came.
Her single “Things a Man Oughta Know” made her an overnight sensation. It was a smash hit, reaching #1 on Billboard Country Airplay and #3 on Hot Country Songs.
What Is Lainey’s Biggest Career Achievement So Far?
One of her proudest moments is being inducted into the Grand Ole Opry (her childhood dream) at 32. This milestone cements her legacy in country music.
Does Lainey Wilson Have a BF?
Lainey Wilson is in a relationship with former NFL quarterback Devlin “Duck” Hodges. They started dating in 2021 but only went public in 2023 when they attended the ACM Awards together.
Is Lainey Wilson Engaged?
Image source: Instagram
Yes, in February of this year, they announced their engagement!
Wrapping Up
At 32, Lainey Wilson proves that patience and hard work pay off.
Stay tuned for more from country music’s brightest female star. And who knows—2025 just might be the year Lainey Wilson adds a diamond ring to her collection of awards
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