Lainey Wilson got the 57th ACM Awards off to a hot start, with a cover of 1990s hit “God Bless Texas.” 

As expected, the song was well-received by the Frisco, Texas, crowd. 

She followed that up with a performance of her new song, “Hang Tight Honey,” from her upcoming album, Whirlwind.

After Lainey’s performance, Reba McEntire, who served as the show’s host for the 17th time, took the stage. 

She said, “God bless Texas and Lainey Wilson for kicking off country music’s party of the year in high style. 

I’m so proud of Lainey, who’s earned five ACM Award nominations tonight, including Entertainer of the Year. 

Well, from this belt-buckle girl, to the bell bottom cowgirl, I’m blown away by her work ethic and how you’re representing country music so well.”

Then she dropped the ultimate compliment: “You’re giving Dolly Parton a run for her money.” On Instagram, users called Reba a “legend” and “icon” after hearing her opening monologue.

Lainey later took home the award for Female Artist of the Year and showered praise on Reba and all of the other women in country music who paved the way for her.

Lainey arrived at the awards show wearing head-to-toe red, from her cowboy hat to her sequins-studded jacket to her red bell bottoms. She was joined on the red carpet by her mom, Michelle.

She later swapped out her look and took the stage in a red tank top and red leather bellbottoms. After hosting last year, Dolly wasn’t in attendance at the 2024 show, but we’re sure she’s proud of what Lainey has accomplished!

If you missed out on the ACM Awards, catch up on Lainey’s performance and more on Prime Video or Freevee.

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Source: CNN