Introduction:
Lainey Wilson Shares the Wisdom of Her Heroes With the Next Generation
Lainey Wilson knows firsthand how valuable guidance can be when navigating the country music world. Now a chart-topping star in her own right, she’s making it her mission to pass along the lessons she once received from her own musical idols. One of the artists she’s championing most visibly is rising talent Ella Langley, with whom Wilson has formed both a professional bond and a personal friendship.
“Miranda [Lambert] was that person for me,” Wilson explained during an interview on Country Nights Live with Bev Rainey. “And I know she is also that person for Ella, too.” Wilson credits legends like Lambert, Reba McEntire, and Wynonna Judd for generously sharing their experiences and advice with her, saying their support made her feel less alone in her journey.
“I just think about all the wisdom people have passed on to me,” Wilson reflected. “We’ve all gone through a lot of the same things—just at different times. And you can’t keep that to yourself. You’ve got to share it.”
That spirit of generosity now fuels her role as a mentor to Langley. “I love Ella,” Wilson gushed. “She’s like a sister to me. She’s one of the most talented people in this business. So for me, it’s important to check in on her and be there whenever she needs me.”
But Langley isn’t the only young artist benefiting from Wilson’s encouragement. She’s also been a vocal supporter of Megan Moroney, another breakout star making waves in country music.
“I’m buddies with Megan Moroney and Ella Langley,” Wilson shared with iHeartCountry. “To watch their stars soar, it’s just the coolest thing. Sometimes I just want to pour out everything I can to them—remind them, ‘Don’t miss this moment. Be present. Celebrate it. Because the next chapter is going to be here before you even realize.’”
For Wilson, the advice always circles back to two essentials: hard work and perspective. “Keep your head down and work hard,” she urges. “But also acknowledge that your hard work has brought you here. Don’t let the voices of the world get you down. Focus on what you’ve built.”
By extending a hand to the next generation, Wilson is carrying on the same tradition that lifted her up. Just as Lambert, Reba, and Wynonna once poured wisdom into her, Wilson is now determined to do the same for artists like Langley and Moroney—ensuring that the spirit of mentorship and solidarity among women in country music continues to thrive.