Song

4x4xU

Artist

Lainey Wilson

Lainey Wilson backstory

2024’s already been quite a year for Lainey Wilson… and we’re only halfway through!

The talented singer songwriter has won: a Grammy for Best Country Album; a People’s Choice Award for Female Country Artist of The Year; a CMT Music Award for Female Video of The Year; three ACM awards — including the coveted Entertainer of The Year; and become an official member of the Grand Ole Opry.

Oh, and she’s found time to put the finishing touches to the hotly anticipated Whirlwind and hit the road across the US.

It’s almost a decade since Wilson waved goodbye to her small farming community to chase her dreams in Nashville.

But the Louisiana native has emerged as country music’s most bankable asset with her astute storytelling and creative flair.

With seven number one singles — and surely many more to come — Wilson’s gone from the one to watch to the one to match. 

And right now she’s way out in front.

In Lainey Wilson’s own words

“I’m so excited for everyone to finally have their hands on 4x4xU.

“This song is all about finding peace within someone during the whirlwind that we call life.

“Thank you to the incredible Dano Cerny for directing this video and bringing my creative vision to life.

“And [thank you] to all of my collaborators on this record for being a part of this beautiful journey.”

The verdict on 4x4xU

Lainey Wilson must look at the likes of Taylor Swift and Kacey Musgraves and wonder whether sticking with country really is the best career move right now.

The worlds of pop, folk and indie rock continue to embrace Nashville’s finest exports with the promise of mainstream success and widespread acclaim.

And the temptation to follow suit must be tough to resist.

But for now Wilson remains all in with the rebooted Music City sound that’s made her one of country’s hottest tickets in 2024.

And the modern-day Dolly Parton has done it again on the third teaser track from forthcoming long player Whirlwind.

A lazy, hazy summer melody — check out that super cool keys-led intro — is paired with a throwback video that sees Lainey throw some Dukes Of Hazzard moves as she hangs out of the window of the nearest truck.

And that canny play on words — 4x4xU is just genius — captures the mood of a tune that’s typically affecting without driving too deep.

As the new queen of country, Lainey’s doing just fine.

When it comes to classic country with a 2024 twist, 4x4xU’s the wheel deal.

What’s next for Lainey Wilson

The Country’s Cool Again tour continues to roll across North America throughout 2024.

Whirlwind is available for pre-order now and drops via BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville on August 23.