Lainey Wilson Reflects on Music's Impact in Honest Playlist Feature

Lainey Wilson, an emerging star in the country music scene, recently shared her personal playlist in an interview with The Guardian, revealing how music has shaped her life and career. The feature, published on June 15, 2025, highlighted not only her musical influences but also the emotional connections she has with various songs throughout her life.

Wilson recalls the first song that captured her heart, '(How Much Is That) Doggie in the Window' by Patti Page, which her grandmother used to sing during car rides when she was just five years old. 'I could never tell if she was singing “doggie” or “dolly,” but I loved it either way,' Wilson explained, showcasing the deep-rooted connection to her family and early exposure to music.

The country star also reminisced about her first record purchase: an album by Tim McGraw, whom her grandmother babysat in Louisiana. 'My sister and I made up a dance routine to his songs,' she said, emphasizing the importance of early musical experiences in her life.

Wilson’s karaoke favorite is none other than Dolly Parton’s '9 to 5,' a testament to her admiration for the legendary singer. 'Nobody can do it like Dolly,' she remarked, acknowledging the influence that Parton has had on her career and artistry.

In a poignant moment, Wilson shared the lyrics to 'I Hope You Dance' by Lee Ann Womack as a song that made her feel empowered. 'It made me feel like I could do anything,' she stated, highlighting the song's inspirational message. This sentiment resonates with her own journey as a rising artist, as she continues to connect with audiences through her music.

The turning point in Wilson's career came with her breakout single, 'Things a Man Oughta Know.' 'It changed my life because it introduced me to a whole crowd of new people,' she expressed. The song, which reflects values instilled by her parents, has become a cornerstone of her identity as an artist.

However, not all memories associated with music are nostalgic. Wilson candidly admitted that she can no longer listen to 'The Best of Both Worlds' by Hannah Montana, a song she performed frequently during her youth as an impersonator. 'It’s not that I don’t love the song anymore, it’s just that I sang it so many times,' she explained, illustrating the complex relationship artists can have with their past.

In contrast, Wilson enjoys the rock-infused sound of Bob Seger’s 'Old Time Rock and Roll' as her go-to party anthem. 'I just love the loud guitars and rock’n’roll feeling,' she said, showcasing her diverse musical tastes.

The emotional weight of music is also evident in her choice of songs that evoke tears, such as 'Whiskey Lullaby' by Alison Krauss and Brad Paisley, which she performed at the Grand Ole Opry. 'It’s a song that really touches my heart,' she noted, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to perform alongside Paisley.

As Wilson prepares for the re-release of her latest album, 'Whirlwind Deluxe,' scheduled for August 2025, she remains grateful for the journey music has taken her on. 'With every song I’ve written since, I feel like I’ve grown as a person, a songwriter, a singer, and a musician,' she reflected, signifying her ongoing evolution within the industry.

In conclusion, Lainey Wilson's honest playlist not only highlights her musical influences but also illustrates the profound impact that songs can have on personal growth and identity. As she continues to make her mark on the country music landscape, her story serves as a reminder of the power of music in shaping our experiences and memories.