In 2022, after appearing on Yellowstone, Lainey Wilson became a country music star. It didn’t happen overnight – nothing good ever does no matter how it looks on television or social media – but that show definitely took her to the next level. She transformed from the cute girl in bell-bottom pants singing the chorus of Hardy’s smash hit “Wait in the Truck” to a glamorous star with her own tour who hosts award shows in addition to being a recipient. Wilson is EVERYWHERE and every time she performs, she does well – no matter who she collaborates with – which continues to earn her more gigs on a global level and over three million Instagram followers. Currently, there is a documentary out on Netflix about her called Keepin’ Country Cool. Clearly, she hit the stratosphere.
In the fall of 2025, Cassidy Daniels was a contestant on The Road – a show that followed a group of singers from city to city as they performed as openers for Keith Urban. Initially hosted by both Urban and Blake Shelton (the latter tapered off his appearances for an unknown reason), the show featured talented country singers – who already put in their time at bars and busking – as they worked through song choices and stage presence with the help of coach Gretchen Wilson. While Brian and I tuned in each week to watch all of the talent, it was evident that Daniels was the best on the show. Although she didn’t win, we knew we would see her on something again and last night we did – in person!
We went to the Vilar to see Brothers Osborne and the surprise (to us) opener was Daniels! She talked to the crowd like everyone was her best friend which was endearing and infectious. Next, she mentioned how grateful she is to currently be on the Yellowstone spin-off, Dutton Ranch. Clearly that opportunity is propelling her forward as she also has a new album coming out this fall and is on her first tour.
Seeing Daniels live last night was so exciting because, like Wilson in 2022, she is on the cusp of making it big. With her time on both of the aforementioned shows, and opening for Brothers Osborne, the exposure is setting her up to be the next big country music star. Although she is tiny, her voice and guitar-playing are mighty. She’s also an excellent songwriter who I think is like the Janis Joplin of country music because she sings and plays her guitar like her life depends on it. And I believe every word she sings.
Although our ticket stubs said Brothers Osborne – who were fantastic and almost tore the roof off the venue – Daniels was just as memorable. Having the opportunity to meet her and tell her that I have played her music on my radio show was very cool. She also signed a hat for Fleet! While she signed it, I said to her that, after the performance we just witnessed, the next time she plays at the Vilar she won’t be the opening act.
Leave a Reply