Lainey Wilson, the rising country sensation and 2023 CMA Entertainer of the Year, has deep roots in Baskin, Louisiana, where her parents, Brian and Michelle Wilson, reside on their family farm. Let’s dive into the heartwarming story of this talented artist and her close-knit family.
Early Life in Baskin
Born on May 19, 1992, Lainey is the second daughter of Brian and Michelle. Raised alongside her older sister, Janna Wilson Sadler, in the charming town of Baskin, Lainey credits her family, especially her parents, for shaping her into the person and artist she is today.
Baskin, Louisiana
Describing her hometown as a “little speed trap” with hardworking, good-hearted people, Lainey’s affection for Baskin is evident in her music. The town, with its corn and cotton fields, serves as a constant inspiration for her songwriting.
Brian Wilson – The Fifth-Generation Farmer
Brian, a fifth-generation farmer, tends to the family farm where corn, wheat, and oats grow. Lainey fondly recalls her dad’s relentless work ethic, emphasizing that spending quality time often meant working alongside him. Brian’s dedication to farming is a theme that echoes through Lainey’s music.
Michelle Wilson – A Dedicated Teacher
Education played a crucial role in Lainey’s upbringing, with Michelle working as a devoted school teacher. Lainey admires her mother for instilling values of hard work and kindness. Michelle’s influence is reflected in Lainey’s ability to “tell it like it is with grace.”
Sisterhood
The Wilson family includes another daughter, Janna, who works in corporate accounting. Janna, married to Taylor Sadler, has two sons, Knox and Ledger. She proudly cheered for her younger sister as Lainey received the Entertainer of the Year award at the 2023 CMA Awards.
Connections Beyond Music
In an interesting twist, Michelle Wilson struck up a close friendship with HARDY’s mom while Lainey collaborated with HARDY on their track “Wait in the Truck.” The mothers even attended the 2023 CMA Awards together, showcasing the strong bond formed through their children’s musical endeavors.
Inspirations for Lainey’s Music
Lainey openly acknowledges the influence her family has on her music. Songs like “Grease” and “Those Boots (Deddy’s Song)” draw directly from her upbringing and the sayings of her parents. These tracks serve as a musical homage to the cherished moments shared with her loved ones.
A Trying Time
The Wilson family faced a challenging period in 2022 when Brian battled a severe fungal infection. Hospitalized for two months and undergoing nine surgeries, Brian’s resilience amazed his family. Lainey expressed the emotional rollercoaster, describing it as a miracle that her father survived.
In the grand tapestry of Lainey Wilson’s success, her family remains an unwavering support system. As she continues to conquer the country music scene, her roots in Baskin and the love of her parents, Brian and Michelle Wilson, serve as a testament to the enduring power of family bonds in the face of life’s challenges.
