Talent Recap

Country Music Star Lainey Wilson Revealed She Got Rejected By ‘American Idol’ Even After Seven Auditions

Lainey Wilson at CMA Fest 2023WireImage

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American Idol has been a stepping stone for many country music sensations, from Carrie Underwood to Scotty McCreery. However, for every success story, there are those who couldn’t quite crack the audition process. One such artist is Lainey Wilson, a rising country star who recently revealed that she auditioned for American Idol seven times before finally making it onto the stage.


Lainey Wilson Celebrated Finally Performing on American Idol

With a string of chart-topping hits and prestigious awards under her belt, Wilson’s story is an inspiration for aspiring musicians everywhere. After years of hard work, she finally made it onto the iconic American Idol stage during the season 21 finale.

The 31-year-old country star finally got her chance to shine on the American Idol stage during the season 21 finale. Alongside fellow country artist Jelly Roll, she performed “Save Me” and later treated the audience to her chart-topping hit, “Heart Like a Truck,” in a memorable duet with Top 10 contestants MaryBeth Byrd and Warren Peay.

During her guest-hosting gig on the Country Countdown USA radio show the following week, Wilson shared her journey to American Idol. In a twist of fate, she admitted to auditioning for the show a staggering seven times but never making it past the first round.


The rejection wasn’t exclusive to American Idol either, as Wilson had also tried out for The Voice without success. Despite these setbacks, Wilson expressed her gratitude for the way her story ultimately unfolded. Despite the setbacks, Wilson’s music career outside of these shows has been highly successful.

Her 2021 album, Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’, propelled her to newfound success and earned her four Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, including Album of the Year and Best Female Vocalist.

In a beautiful full-circle moment, one of Wilson’s current hits is a collaboration with American Idol season ten runner-up Lauren Alaina. Their duet, titled “Thicc as Thieves,” even features a sample of Idol judge Luke Bryan’s massive hit, “Country Girl Shake It For Me.”


Why American Idol Fans Can’t Stop Talking About Lainey Wilson

Season 21 of American Idol may have come to an end, but the buzz surrounding the show’s performances continues. Among the star-studded lineup on the finale, Wilson, reigning ACM Female Artist of the Year and beloved Yellowstone star, delivered two captivating performances that left fans abuzz with excitement.

One of the standout moments was when Wilson joined Byrd, who made it to the top ten, to perform their hit collaboration, “Heart Like a Truck.” Joined by Peay, who reached the top eight, the trio brought the house down with their energy and undeniable chemistry.

As American Idol wraps up its 21st season, fans are already eagerly anticipating the return of the show for season 22. With performances like Wilson’s and the undeniable talent of the contestants, there’s no doubt that the upcoming season will continue to captivate audiences and deliver unforgettable musical moments.

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