Lainey Wilson has nothing but admiration for her longtime inspiration, close friend, and mentor Reba McEntire.
Long before Wilson made her mark on the country music scene, Reba’s career and character shaped her dreams. Now that the two share a genuine friendship, Lainey often turns to the legendary singer for guidance and encouragement during both professional and personal moments.
Wilson revealed that she can reach out to Reba whenever she needs advice, whether she’s facing career challenges or navigating emotions that come with success. Reba, she says, responds with heartfelt wisdom, generously offering lessons shaped by years of experience. To Lainey, that willingness to mentor others explains exactly why Reba’s legacy runs so deep. “She’s a good woman,” Wilson shared, praising how Reba continues the cycle of support she once received herself.
What resonates most with Lainey is how authentically Reba has remained herself despite decades of fame. From old interviews to casual dinners together in Los Angeles, Wilson says Reba is the same warm, grounded person she’s always been. Awards, money, and stardom, she believes, have never changed the qualities that define Reba—and that authenticity is deeply inspiring.
Lainey also admires Reba’s open-mindedness and empathy. Even though they come from different generations, Wilson says many of Reba’s past struggles mirror her own today. Questions that might feel awkward to ask others never feel foolish with Reba, who listens openly and responds with understanding. “She is a beautiful person inside and out,” Wilson said, adding that getting to know Reba has exceeded every expectation.
Lainey, Reba, and Miranda Lambert Unite on “Trailblazer”
Earlier this year, Lainey Wilson joined forces with Reba McEntire and Miranda Lambert on the powerful collaboration “Trailblazer,” a song honoring the women who paved the way in country music. Co-written by Wilson, Lambert, and Brandy Clark, the emotional track moved all three artists to tears during its creation—and Reba was equally overwhelmed the first time she heard it.
Reba recalled listening to the song in her dressing room and being instantly struck by its perfection. “I couldn’t find a flaw in it,” she said, describing how emotional the moment was.
“Trailblazer” pays tribute to iconic women like Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, and Loretta Lynn, while also celebrating personal roots, home states, and shared histories. Wilson hopes the song connects across generations, envisioning grandmothers, daughters, and grandchildren listening together. For her, honoring the audience is just as important as honoring the past—because music only truly resonates when people see themselves in it.
The collaboration stands as a testament to the enduring power of mentorship, legacy, and the unbreakable bond between women in country music.