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Lainey Wilson, the country music sensation, experienced a moment she’ll never forget during the 2024 Disney Legends Ceremony on Sunday night, August 11th.
As she took the stage, Wilson wasn’t just there as a performer but as a fan payingtributeto one of her childhood idols, Miley Cyrus.
Keep reading for more details!
Miley Cyrus: The Youngest Disney Legend
The night was historic for Miley Cyrus, who was honored as the youngest person ever to be named aDisney Legend.
The recognition was due to her incredible impact on a generation of fans who grew up watching her portray Hannah Montana, the dual-life pop star on Disney Channel.
To celebrate this milestone, Lainey Wilson performed one of Cyrus’ most iconic songs, “Best of Both Worlds,” which became an anthem for the show.
A Surprising Connection: Lainey Wilson’s Hannah Montana Days
What made this moment even more special was the personal connection Wilson revealed during her speech.
Before she became the chart-topping artist known for hits like “Hang Tight Honey,” Lainey Wilson had a unique first job—she was a Hannah Montana impersonator.
“Miley, you might not know this, but I am truly one of your biggest fans,” Wilson shared from the stage. “My very first job was taking my portable sound system and a wig…and impersonating Hannah Montana.”
Yes, before she was performing on the biggest stages, Wilson was bringing Hannah Montana to life at birthday parties and local events.
It was a hustle that paid off, quite literally, as she reminisced about her high school days when she was making serious cash as an impersonator.
“I was making bank in high school,” she told Taste of Country in a 2021 interview.
“I was doing three to four parties a weekend.” It was a gig that not only gave her financial independence but also fueled her passion for music and performing.
A Heartfelt Tribute: Lainey Wilson’s Words to Miley
As Wilson wrapped up her performance, she took a moment to express her gratitude to Miley Cyrus for being a significant influence in her life.
“You inspired me to believe in myself,” she said, her voice filled withemotion.
“That I, too, could be an ordinary girl living in an extraordinary world. So on behalf of Hannah Montana fans everywhere, I’d like to dedicate this song to you.”
Wilson’s words were a powerful reminder of the impact that role models can have on young fans.
@etalkctvLainey Wilson honours Miley Cyrus at her Disney Legends ceremony by singing “Best of Both Worlds” to her. 💜 Lainey also told the story of how she started her career as a Hannah Montana impersonator 🥺 Plus, she changed up the iconic Orlando Bloom line to shout out Glen Powell 😅 What do you think of Lainey Wilson singing Hannah Montana? 👀#D23#Disney#DisneyLegends#MileyCyrus#LaineyWilson#CountryMusic#HannahMontana#Music#GlenPowell@Disney @Disney D23 @Miley Cyrus @Lainey Wilson♬ original sound – etalk
For Wilson, Miley Cyrus wasn’t just a pop star on TV—she was an inspiration that shaped her dreams and ambitions.
A Full-Circle Moment: Lainey and Miley’s Unforgettable Encounter
The night was made even more surreal when Lainey Wilson shared a photo of herself with Miley Cyrus on Instagram.
“From performing as Hannah Montana on flat bed trailers at birthday parties to honoring the legend herself … now that right there is what ya call a full circle moment,” she wrote. “Miley Cyrus, you’re such an inspiration.”
It was a moment that brought Wilson’s journey full circle, from impersonating a character that defined a generation to standing beside the woman who brought that character to life.
About Lainey Wilson
Lainey Wilson’s rise to fame might seem sudden, but her journey has been years in the making.
The ABC documentaryLainey Wilson: Bell Bottom Countryoffers a glimpse into her 10-year struggle in Nashville and the small-town roots that shaped her musical dreams.
Here are some of the most surprising insights from the documentary:
1.Rapid Rise to Stardom
In just one year, Wilson went from performing for 87 people in Alabama in 2022 to headlining her first arena show at The Mohegan Sun Arena in 2023. Her meteoric rise highlights just how quickly things can change in the music industry.
2.Musical Roots in Her Family
Wilson’s father, Brian, had musical aspirations of his own, playing guitar by ear. He passed his passion on to Lainey, who wrote her first song at nine years old after learning a few chords from him.
Wilson’s first taste of performing came at her kindergarten graduation, where she dressed as a butterfly and sang “Butterfly Kisses.” Her grandmother was the first to recognize her talent, setting her on the path to becoming a singer.
4.A Dream That Changed Her Life
In 2011, Wilson had a vivid dream where her grandfather encouraged her to move toNashville. At the time, she was in college and unsure of her future. This dream became a turning point, pushing her to pursue her music career in Nashville.
5.Support from a Family Friend
When Wilson moved to Nashville at 19, she found support from Jerry Cupit, a family friend and producer who let her live in his studio parking lot for free. This connection was crucial in helping her get started in the music industry.
6.Handling Social Media Scrutiny
In 2022, Wilson became the subject of social media buzz due to comments about her physique. Instead of letting it get to her, she took inspiration from Reba McEntire and Dolly Parton, choosing to laugh it off and focus on her music.
7.Speaking Out Against AI Misuse
In 2024, Wilson spoke out against the misuse of artificial intelligence after her likeness was used without permission for a weight loss product. While she sees potential in AI, she’s concerned about its impact on personal rights, especially for artists.
Lainey Wilson’s documentary showcases her resilience, determination, and the moments that shaped her journey from a small-town girl to a country music star.
Song Title
Album
Release Year
Chart Performance
“Things a Man Oughta Know”
Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’
2021
#1 on Billboard Country Airplay
“Heart Like a Truck”
Bell Bottom Country
2022
Top 10 on Billboard Hot Country Songs
“Dirty Looks”
Redneck Hollywood
2019
Gained traction on country radio
“Watermelon Moonshine”
Bell Bottom Country
2023
Popular streaming hit
“Hold My Halo”
Bell Bottom Country
2022
Fan-favorite during live performances
Her hit songs
On the Road Again: Lainey Wilson’s Country’s Cool Again Tour
As Lainey Wilson continues her rise in the country music scene, she’s currently out on the road for her “Country’s Cool Again Tour.”
While her career has taken her far from the days of performing as Hannah Montana at birthday parties, it’s clear that those early experiences helped shape the artist she is today.
Conclusion
Wilson’s journey serves as an inspiring reminder of how childhood dreams and influences can shape a person’s future, ultimately leading to unforgettable moments of recognition and achievement.
Lainey Wilson went from impersonating Hannah Montana at local events to honoring Miley Cyrus, the very icon she once emulated, at the 2024 Disney Legends Ceremony.
Wilson’s tribute to Cyrus was deeply personal, as she credited Miley and her character, Hannah Montana, with inspiring her own journey in the music industry.
By performing “Best of Both Worlds” and expressing her gratitude, Wilson highlighted the significant influence Cyrus had on her self-belief and career aspirations.
Meeting and performing for Miley Cyrus marked a surreal and meaningful milestone in Wilson’s life, symbolizing how far she has come since her early days as a Hannah Montana impersonator.
Last Updated: September 23, 2024
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