Triumph at 2025 CMA Awards
Lainey Wilson secured major victories at the 59th annual CMA Awards in 2025, including categories like Musical Event of the Year, Music Video of the Year, Single of the Year, and Vocal Duo of the Year. These wins affirm her status as one of country's leading artists, following a year of sold-out tours and critical acclaim[4].
The awards ceremony spotlighted her collaborative spirit and vocal prowess, with early announcements on Good Morning America building anticipation. Wilson's haul underscores her evolution from breakout star to industry powerhouse, resonating with fans worldwide[4].
Her success at the CMAs aligns with a banner year, including performances and releases that keep her at the forefront of country music conversations.
Guest Spot on ManningCast
On December 15, 2025, Lainey Wilson joined Eli and Peyton Manning on the ManningCast for ESPN's Monday Night Football broadcast of the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Miami Dolphins game. A teaser video featured humorous clips from her duet 'I Would If I Could' with ERNEST, sparking excitement among fans[1][5].
The appearance ties perfectly into Wilson's Louisiana roots, shared with the Mannings, and her engagement to former Steelers quarterback Devlin “Duck” Hodges. Having hosted the 2024 CMA Awards with Peyton Manning, this spot promises football talk, career highlights, and personal insights[1].
Streamable on the ESPN app, the event aired live on ESPN2, drawing praise for blending her country charisma with sports culture[1][5].
Headlining 2026 New Orleans Jazz Fest
Wilson is confirmed for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2026, running April 23 through May 3, alongside Tyler Childers, Jason Isbell, Eagles, and more. Announced on December 12, the lineup celebrates diverse genres with a Jamaica-focused Cultural Exchange Pavilion[3].
This booking returns her to her home state's iconic event, offering a platform for her high-energy live shows amid reggae stars like Ziggy Marley and Sean Paul. Weekend passes went on sale immediately, with locals' discounts and payment plans available[3].
Wilson's inclusion highlights her growing festival draw, promising unforgettable performances that fuse country with Jazz Fest's eclectic vibe.
'Would If I Could' Timeless Success
The duet 'Would If I Could' with ERNEST, written in 1996 by Dean Dillon and Skip Ewing, has charted for over 50 weeks. Ewing called it a 'blessing' that the nearly 30-year-old song found new life through Wilson's Apple Music solo version and their collaboration[2].
Performed on her Whirlwind tour, the track's classic country sound has endured, surprising even its writers who pitched it unsuccessfully for decades. Ernest's Nashville, Tennessee album elevated it to duet status, captivating listeners[2].
This resurgence exemplifies Wilson's knack for reviving hidden gems, solidifying her role in preserving country's songwriting legacy.