Lainey Wilson could hardly contain herself after receiving nominations in six CMA Awards categories, a rare achievement in CMA history. The “Things A Man Caught Know” artist is one of the leading contenders of the 56th annual awards show. The Country Music Association unveiled its lists in each category on Wednesday morning (September 7).
Wilson is up for Female Vocalist of the Year, New Artist of the Year, Album of the Year (Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’), Song of the Year (“Things A Man Oughta Know”), Musical Event of the Year (“Never Say Never” with Cole Swindell), and Music Video of theYear (“Never Say Never” with Cole Swindell).
Wilson gushed on her social media channels after the Country Music Association’s announcement: “6 NOMINATIONS!?!? I’m speechless. While I try to find the words just know that I’m blown away and so so honored and proud to be nominated. Thank you to the entire country music community!”
“This is my first time being cordially invited to the CMA Awards as a nominee and what a wonderful invitation it is,” Wilson added in a statement. “It has been such a challenging but beautiful journey up until this point and to see the Country music community and the incredible fans be so receptive to me and my music is such a blessing. I’m so grateful for this moment.”
Wilson’s post drew praise from other fan-favorite artists in country music on Instagram, including Miranda Lambert, Dan + Shay’s Dan Smyers, Tenille Townes, Runaway June’s Jennifer Wayne, Hannah Ellis and more. The Associated Press noted in a report Wednesday morning that Wilson’s impressive lead on the CMA Award nominations comes in her first year. The AP notes that Wilson becomes the fourth artist in CMA history to earn six nominations in her first year, joining Glen Campbell, Brad Paisley and Kacey Musgraves in her rare accomplishment. See the full list of nominees here.
The Louisiana-born country hitmaker, a previous iHeartRadio “On The Verge” artist, released her debut album, Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’, in 2021. Wilson’s breakout single, “Things A Man Oughta Know,” skyrocketed her success, along with her smash-hit collaboration with Swindell. Now, the reigning iHeartRadio Music Awards Best New Country Artist is gearing up to release her highly-anticipated sophomore album next month.
Bell Bottom Country is set to release on October 28. The 14-track project includes the empowering anthem, “Heart Like A Truck,” and the nostalgic tribute to young love, “Watermelon Moonshine.”
“I've lived quite a bit of life the past few years, and I have a lot more to say,” Wilson previously said. “Sure, I love a good pair of bell bottoms, but Bell Bottom Country to me has always been about the flare and what makes someone unique — I have really embraced mine, and I hope y’all can hear that across this project.” Listen to her latest song again here: