Lainey Wilson Ignites Country Revolution at Canada Life Place

All photos by Dan Savoie

Lainey Wilson’s “Country’s Cool Again” tour blazed through London, Ontario, on October 24, 2024, proving that country music isn’t just cool—it’s red-hot and ready to set the world on fire. The Grammy-winning artist brought her unique blend of traditional twang and modern flair to the Canada Life Place, delivering a performance that left the audience stomping their boots and begging for more.

Wilson, the reigning CMA Entertainer of the Year and Grammy winner for Country Album of the Year, has been on a meteoric rise since her breakout hit “Things A Man Oughta Know.” Her latest album, “Whirlwind,” released just months ago, has already topped the charts and garnered critical acclaim. With her signature bell-bottom jeans and cowboy hat, Wilson has become the new face of country music, bridging the gap between the genre’s roots and its future.

The Louisiana native’s journey to stardom wasn’t an overnight success. After nearly a decade of performing in Nashville bars, Wilson’s persistence and talent finally paid off. Her unique sound, which blends traditional country with rock and blues influences, has earned her collaborations with artists across genres, from Hardy to Post Malone.

Wilson burst onto the stage with “Hang Tight Honey,” her energy infectious as she commanded the audience’s attention while dancing and swaying on the top of a full-sized pickup truck. The opening number set the tone for the night, showcasing Wilson’s powerful vocals and her band’s tight musicianship.

The set continued with “Straight Up Sideways,” a high-energy track that had the crowd on their feet. Wilson’s stage presence was magnetic, her charisma radiating throughout the venue as she effortlessly transitioned between upbeat numbers and heartfelt ballads.

One of the night’s highlights came when Wilson performed “Good Horses” with special guest Ian Munsick. The duet showcased Wilson’s ability to harmonize and share the spotlight, while still maintaining her star power. The chemistry between the two artists was evident, adding an extra layer of excitement to the performance.

Wilson took a moment to slow things down while playing her breakthrough hit “Things a Man Oughta Know” from the truck’s tailgate. The crowd sang along to every word, demonstrating the impact this song has had on her career and her fans. It was a poignant moment that highlighted Wilson’s storytelling abilities and her connection with her audience.

The energy ramped up again with “Whirlwind,” the title track from her latest album. This song, with its driving beat and catchy chorus, perfectly encapsulated the whirlwind journey Wilson has been on in recent years. The extended guitar solo and jam session at the end had the crowd cheering for more.

“Heart Like a Truck” proved to be another fan favorite, with Wilson’s vocals soaring over the arena. The song’s metaphor of resilience resonated strongly with the audience, many of whom could be seen wiping away tears during the performance.

In a surprising twist, Wilson delivered a high-octane cover of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Proud Mary.” This rendition showcased her versatility as an artist and her ability to make even classic rock songs her own. The crowd’s response was electric, with many dancing in the aisles.

“Ring Finger” stood out as one of the most unique performances of the night. Wilson’s use of a voice-modulating walkie-talkie added an unexpected and playful element to the song. Her goofy dance moves atop the stage set had the audience laughing and dancing along.

During “Atta Girl,” Wilson invited a young fan on stage, continuing a tradition from her tour. The heartwarming moment saw Wilson leading the girl in self-affirming mantras, showcasing the artist’s dedication to empowering her fans. It was clear that this interaction was as meaningful for Wilson as it was for the young fan.

The main set closed with the tour’s namesake, “Country’s Cool Again.” This honky-tonk anthem had the entire arena on its feet, with cowboy hats waving in the air. Wilson’s pride in her genre and her role in its resurgence was evident in every note.

The encore began with a medley of collaborations, including “Never Say Never” and “Wait in the Truck,” highlighting Wilson’s impressive list of musical partnerships. The crowd’s enthusiasm never waned, even as the night drew to a close.

Wilson closed the show with “Wildflowers and Wild Horses,” leaving the audience with a final taste of her poetic lyricism and powerful vocals. As the last notes faded, the thunderous applause and standing ovation were a testament to Wilson’s impact on the country music scene and her ability to connect with fans.

With her unique blend of traditional twang and modern flair, Wilson is spearheading a new era in the genre. Her music pays homage to country legends while pushing boundaries, creating a sound that’s both familiar and refreshingly innovative. As she commanded the stage, it became clear that Wilson isn’t just riding the wave of country music’s evolution – she’s steering it. Her ability to seamlessly incorporate elements of rock, blues, and even pop into her country foundation demonstrates a musical dexterity that sets her apart from her peers. Wilson’s rise to stardom isn’t just a personal triumph; it’s a signal that country music is entering an exciting new chapter, one where tradition and innovation coexist in perfect harmony.

Opening acts Ian Munsick and Zach Top set the stage perfectly for Wilson’s performance. Munsick’s Rocky Mountain country sound and Top’s more traditional approach provided a well-rounded showcase of country music’s diverse landscape. Their performances, while distinct from Wilson’s, complemented the headliner’s set and added depth to an already unforgettable evening of music.

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