Arguably country music’s biggest act, Morgan Wallen is currently lighting stages on fire both literally and metaphorically on his nationwide I’m The Problem Tour. Releasing his highly-anticipated fourth studio album of the same name in May, fans are clamoring to experience the reigning Entertainer of the Year’s newest material live. And Wallen, 32, is bringing along a few friends, including Grammy-nominated Christian artist Anne Wilson. Recently, the “My Jesus” singer, 23, opened up on how the best-selling country star has influenced her career.
Videos by American Songwriter
Anne Wilson Decided to Pursue Music After a Family Tragedy
On June 7, 2017, life dealt Anne Wilson and her family a devastating blow when her older brother, Jacob, died in a car accident. He was just 23 years old, the same age that the two-time GMA Dove Award winner turned in February.
Reeling from the loss, Wilson spent many hours beside her brother’s gravesite on her Kentucky farm. And Morgan Wallen’s 2021 Dangerous: The Double Album became the soundtrack to first her pain, then her healing.
“I would sit and listen to Morgan Wallen, and this was when he was just coming out with music,” Wilson told Taste of Country during a recent interview.
Before her brother’s funeral, the “God Story” singer had never performed in public before. However, she reluctantly agreed to sing Hillsong Worship’s “What A Beautiful Name” at the service.
Sitting down at the piano to perform for more than 1,000 people, Wilson says she felt pulled in an unfamiliar direction. “God said, ‘This is what I’m calling you to do. I’m calling you to praise and worship my name,’” she said. “Up until that point, I had never dreamed of being a singer or singing for God.”
Anne Wilson Is “Obsessed With” Morgan Wallen
Nearly five years after her brother’s death, Wilson released her debut album, My Jesus, in April 2022. The title track would become her breakout hit, climbing to the top of Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs chart. And Wilson tells Taste of Country that she has taken cues from Morgan Wallen’s emotionally raw storytelling throughout her career—particularly with her latest song, “God Story.”
[RELATED: Meaning Behind the Song “My Jesus”: Anne Wilson Looks to a Higher Power]
“Morgan’s music inspired me to go back in the writing room and really stick to my roots, or country, Christian stuff,” she said. “At that point I was writing more Christian music stuff, and it didn’t feel fully right for me. He continues to inspire me.”
With a smile, Wilson added, “Anyone that knows me on like my personal life side knows I’m obsessed with all things Morgan Wallen.”
Featured image by Dave Hogan/Hogan Media/Shutterstock
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.