Lainey Wilson: Tough as Nails Exhibit
The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum is set to unveil a new exhibition titled "Lainey Wilson: Tough as Nails," which will delve into the remarkable life and musical journey of the rising country star, Lainey Wilson. Scheduled to run from July 18, 2025, until June 2026, this exhibition will explore Wilson's evolution from her humble beginnings in Baskin, Louisiana, to her prominent status in the global music scene.
From Humble Beginnings to Stardom
Lainey Wilson grew up in a farming family in a small Louisiana town, where her passion for music began at an early age. The exhibit will feature personal artifacts from Wilson's life, including childhood memorabilia, stage outfits, instruments, and photographs that illustrate her journey. An impressive array of items will spotlight her unwavering determination to become a successful country artist, showcasing her early singing public performances and the influence of her upbringing.
Kyle Young, the CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, emphasizes the importance of this exhibition, stating, "From a young age, Lainey Wilson had an unwavering vision and faith in herself. This exhibit will examine the seeds of her career, including the requisite talent, hard work and ingenuity throughout her ten-year journey in Nashville that fueled her emergence as a globally popular and beloved artist."
What's Inside the Exhibit?
Visitors can expect to see a variety of fascinating items that reflect Wilson's growth and success in the music industry. Some highlights include:
- - Her First Leather Saddle: A childhood saddle that she adored.
- - CMA Awards Memorabilia: A custom-made belt buckle she wore to the Country Music Association Awards in 2022.
- - Journals and School Programs: A journal entry where she declares her dream of becoming a country singer and the program from her kindergarten graduation, noting her first performance.
- - Stage Outfits: Unique pieces she wore during significant performances, including her first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry and a jacket from a memorable concert.
- - Hannah Montana Keepsakes: Reflecting her youthful inspiration and performances.
Wilson's journey also tells a story of resilience, as she faced challenges along the way. After moving to Nashville in 2011, Wilson persevered through the trials and tribulations of the music industry. Her breakthrough came with the success of her single "Things a Man Oughta Know," resulting in rapid success and widespread recognition - including five awards at the 2023 CMA Awards, marking her as the first woman to win Entertainer of the Year since Taylor Swift in 2011.
Supporting Events and Activities
In conjunction with the exhibit, the Country Music Hall of Fame will hold various programs and events. One of the first activities will be a Songwriter Session featuring Aaron Raitiere and Jon Decious, taking place in the museum’s Ford Theater. Family-friendly arts and crafts programming will also be available to engage visitors of all ages.
For those eager to learn more about Lainey Wilson's inspiring journey and see her cherished belongings showcased in the exhibit, further details are available on the museum’s website.
The Country Music Hall of Fame® is not just a museum; it's a vital institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history of country music, making it one of the most visited history museums in the United States. This exhibition will undoubtedly enrich the cultural tapestry of the museum and inspire visitors with Wilson's story of hope and determination.
To learn more about the exhibition, upcoming programs, and more about the museum, visit
Country Music Hall of Fame or contact them at (615) 416-2001.