Lainey Wilson has achieved several new milestones over the past couple of years. She’s launched singles to the top of the charts, won Entertainer of the Year, and toured the world. Now, she’s sharing her story to inspire young aspiring musicians. Wilson wrote the foreword to a new children’s book called Howdy: Welcome to the Grand Ole Opry.
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Wilson was the perfect person to open the new kids’ book about the Opry. She and her family took in a show at the Opry House when she was a little girl. From that moment on, she knew she wanted to be a country singer. She continued to follow that dream for years. After years of hard work and hard times, she finally achieved stardom. As a result, she has a wonderful story to share with dreamers of all ages.
Lainey Wilson Pens the Foreword for New Opry Kids’ Book
Emily Frans, director of archives and content management for the Grand Ole Opry wrote the new picture book. Howdy: Welcome to the Grand Ole Opry introduces a new generation of country fans to the iconic venue. According to People, the book will hit shelves in stores across the country on September 16.
“My kids love going to the Grand Ole Opry, and I cherish seeing the wonder and excitement in their eyes every time we walk through the doors,” Frans said. “This book transports readers backstage, where they can feel the energy and anticipation of stepping onto that legendary stage for the first time,” she added.
“The Opry is more than a venue. It’s a place of deep cultural significance where performers and fans connect through a love of music. I can’t wait to inspire kids to visit, learn the rich history, and even dream big about their own debut one day,” Frans said.
In the book’s foreword, Lainey Wilson explained that she first visited the Grand Ole Opry as a child and knew she wanted to perform there. “I dreamed about making my debut and standing in the circle where all my heroes have stood,” she wrote. “I got to plant my boots in that circle on February 14, 2020,” she added.
Wilson also wrote about joining the Grand Ole Opry in June 2024. “Of all the blessings and accolades, this is my biggest accomplishment so far. The Opry’s mission is to serve the country music industry and preserve what makes the home of country music and the country music family so unique and special,” she wrote. “It welcomes everyone with open arms. It understands the importance of what it means to ‘tip your hat’ to the ones who paved the way. The Opry believes in giving opportunities to people who dare to share their voice with the world,” she added.
Featured image by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
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