Lainey Wilson is the kind of artist who does not just dream big but works harder than most to make those dreams come true.
Fresh off a streak of wins that would make any country artist jealous, including a CMA Album of the Year trophy and a run of chart-toppers, Lainey still has her eyes set on new mountains to climb. She may be deep in wedding planning mode and headlining shows all over the country, but the reigning queen of modern country is also carving out time for what might be her most anticipated moves yet. These are two potential dream collaborations that could light the genre on fire.
In a recent interview, Lainey opened up about the two names she would give just about anything to record with. Those names are Chris Stapleton and Eric Church. These are not small asks. We are talking about two of the most respected voices in country music who are both known for doing things their own way. It just so happens that Lainey fits that bill, too. She said it straight, “I’d love to do something with Chris Stapleton, Eric Church, the list goes on and on.”
It turns out one of those collaborations might already be in motion. Chris Stapleton recently added Lainey to the lineup of his 2026 All-American Road Show tour. That is not just a casual co-sign. That is boots on stage and mics getting warmed up. If you think they are going to hit the road together and not end up in the studio at some point, you are dreaming too small. A collaboration between Lainey and Chris would be like pairing Tennessee whiskey with a Louisiana flame. Pure fire.
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As for Eric Church, he holds a special spot in Lainey’s heart. She has said that she and her fiancé, Duck, listen to the Church more than anyone else. He has long been one of her biggest artistic inspirations. She even performed at one of his events before she was headlining her own, soaking in the crowd like it was a masterclass. It is not out of the question that he could be next on that list of collaborations turned reality.
Lainey is not rushing things, though. She is also knee-deep in writing sessions for her next album and said she is letting the songs come naturally. “I have been writing some songs. It has been so much fun. Even in the past couple weeks, I’ve been feeling very inspired,” she said. But Lainey is not the type to pen a dozen tracks and call it a record. She wants to write one hundred songs and let the very best rise to the top. That means if a duet with Church or Stapleton happens, it is going to earn its place.
There is something about Lainey’s rise that feels old-school and brand new all at once. She honors the greats while carving her own path. If she ends up trading verses with either of these country titans, it will not feel like a surprise. It will feel like the natural next chapter in a story that is already turning into one of country music’s best.
So whether it is a smoky duet with Stapleton or a gritty anthem with Church, one thing is clear. Lainey Wilson is not just dreaming anymore. She is building something, and she is doing it loud, proud, and country strong.
