Reigning ACM and CMA Entertainer of the Year Lainey Wilson brought her signature warmth and positive spirit to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, TN, on Friday, Aug. 9, for a special visit.
With a nearby stop on her Country's Cool Again Tour in Southaven, Miss., that evening, Wilson made time in her busy schedule to spend the day on the St. Jude campus, performing for and connecting with patients.
Wilson treated over 150 St. Jude patients and their families to a lively set filled with her hit songs, kicking off the performance with her No. 1 single “Heart Like A Truck,” as the audience joined in to sing along.
Her inviting stage presence encouraged patients to gather at the front, transforming the concert into a joyous dance party.
After her performance, Wilson took the time to meet with attendees, personally gifting each patient a custom cowboy hat.
A long-time advocate for St. Jude and the Music Gives to St. Jude Kids program, this visit marked a return to the St. Jude campus for Wilson.
Sixteen years ago, she performed as a Hannah Montana impersonator, with her final performance as the character taking place at St. Jude.
Reflecting on that moment during her recent visit, Wilson shared, “A patient recovering from brain surgery came to the front during ‘The Climb.’
She knew every single word and sang them with such heart. Afterward, she said, ‘Hannah Montana, I’m your star,’ and I knew right then that I had to figure out how to keep doing this.
"It was one of the most pivotal moments in my life, and to be back here 16 years later, it feels like things have come full circle.”
Prior to this visit, Wilson has participated in numerous St. Jude radio shows, supported St. Jude radio events, and been involved in several This Shirt Saves Lives campaigns.
The accomplished songwriter has already achieved seven No. 1 hits, including “Watermelon Moonshine” and the 2x Platinum-certified “Heart Like A Truck,” along with award-winning collaborations with Cole Swindell, Jelly Roll, and HARDY.
Following her Grammy Award win for Best Country Album for her debut Bell Bottom Country, Wilson is set to release her sophomore album, WHIRLWIND, on August 23rd.
WHIRLWIND offers an unflinchingly honest look into Wilson’s life and global journey, featuring tracks like “Hang Tight Honey” and “4x4xu,” with the former already climbing into the top 20 on the country charts.
In addition to her musical achievements, Wilson has made her mark as a triple threat in entertainment—singing, songwriting, and acting.
Lainey made her acting debut in Paramount's hit series Yellowstone, was recently inducted into the Grand Ole Opry by Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood, and penned the original song "Out of Oklahoma" for Universal's blockbuster film Twisters.
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