Country music fans were treated to a truly special moment during the #Opry100 festivities when Lainey Wilson took the stage to pay tribute to the legendary Johnny Cash. Her powerful rendition of “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” captured hearts at Nashville’s iconic Grand Ole Opry, celebrating 100 years of country music history.
The performance, which happened on June 19, 2025, quickly went viral after CMT shared it on social media. Fans old and new were moved by Lainey’s raw, emotional delivery—a perfect blend of respect for Johnny Cash’s original and her own unique style.
Meet Lainey Wilson: Country’s Rising Star with an Old-Soul Vibe
Hailing from Louisiana, Lainey Wilson is one of country’s brightest new voices. She’s known for mixing traditional country sounds with honest storytelling, and hits like “Things a Man Oughta Know” and “Heart Like a Truck” have made her a fan favorite. Many also recognize her from the popular TV show Yellowstone.
With her signature wide-brimmed hat and heartfelt performances, Lainey has found a way to connect deeply with fans across generations—something she showcased beautifully in this tribute to Johnny Cash.
The Song: A Powerful Legacy of “God’s Gonna Cut You Down”
“God’s Gonna Cut You Down” is a haunting folk song that Johnny Cash famously recorded in 2003. Its themes of justice and truth have made it one of his most unforgettable tracks.
Lainey brought fresh energy and grit to the song, honoring Cash’s spirit while making it her own. Her stirring vocals earned her a standing ovation at the Opry and plenty of praise online.
Celebrating a Century of Country: What is #Opry100?
The Grand Ole Opry, founded in 1925, is often called the heart of country music. Over 100 years, it’s welcomed legends like Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, and Garth Brooks.
The #Opry100 event was a star-studded celebration honoring country’s rich past and bright future. Among all the incredible performances, Lainey Wilson’s tribute stood out as a deeply emotional highlight.
Fans Share Their Love for Lainey’s Tribute
After the video made the rounds, fans poured in with praise:
“Lainey is a true artist. This gave me chills.”
“Johnny Cash would be so proud.”
“This is why we love country music.”
This wasn’t just a cover—it was a heartfelt nod to the legacy of a legend and proof that Lainey is ready to carry the torch.
A Moment That Connects Generations
With her unforgettable “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” performance, Lainey Wilson showed she’s more than a rising star—she’s a bridge between country’s rich history and its future. Her tribute at #Opry100 will be remembered as a defining moment, celebrating the lasting power of American roots music.
@cmt @Lainey Wilson pays tribute to @Johnny Cash with a performance of “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” 🙌 📍 @Grand Ole Opry / #Opry100 #laineywilson #johnnycash #countrymusic
