Lainey Wilson lit up the stage at the 2025 American Music Awards on May 26 with the live debut of her stunning new single, “Somewhere Over Laredo.” Held at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas, the star-studded event had its share of big moments—but Lainey’s heartfelt performance was one of the night’s most talked-about highlights.
Dressed head-to-toe in white—with a flowing cape, cowboy hat, and a sparkling rhinestone mic—Lainey stood center stage on a round platform surrounded by soft clouds of smoke. Behind her, a white grand piano set the mood, while her band played from the shadows. The whole scene felt like a country dream come to life.
“Somewhere Over Laredo” is a beautiful mid-tempo ballad that blends nostalgia with Lainey’s signature storytelling style. Inspired in part by the timeless classic “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” the song trades emerald skies for Texan sunsets and lost love. With lyrics like “Couple wrong for each other, lone star-crossed lovers / Born to get gone from the get-go,” it’s a bittersweet ode to a love that wasn’t meant to last—but won’t be forgotten.
Written by Lainey alongside Trannie Anderson, Dallas Wilson, and Andy Albert, the song officially hit country radio on May 27 as the third single from the deluxe edition of her Whirlwind album.
Though she was up against big names like Beyoncé, Kacey Musgraves, and Megan Moroney for Favorite Female Country Artist, and the trophy ultimately went to Beyoncé, Lainey’s performance clearly won the hearts of many watching.
With “Somewhere Over Laredo,” Lainey Wilson continues to prove why she’s one of country music’s brightest stars—blending powerful vocals, poetic lyrics, and a whole lot of heart.
And if her AMAs performance is any indication, this song is about to become a fan favorite.
