Country superstar Lainey Wilson rocked a packed Save Mart Center on Thursday night with a high-energy performance. Rolling through Fresno on her “Country’s Cool Again” tour, Wilson delivered a show that lived up to the name.

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Riding a Wave of Success

Wilson has been riding a wave of success since breaking out with “Things a Man Oughta Know” in 2020. Since then, her career has soared.

She has appeared as both an actress and singer on the hit series “Yellowstone” and has earned numerous accolades, including seven Country Music Association Awards and the 2023 Entertainer of the Year title. Wilson has also won a Grammy and six Academy of Country Music Awards, with her live show proving why she’s getting such recognition.

Opening Acts Set the Stage

Jackson Dean and Zach Top opened the show. Top, a newcomer to the country scene, kicked off the night with his single “Cold Beer & Country Music,” a title that set the tone for the evening.

Dean’s debut single, “Don’t Come Lookin’,” achieved platinum status and was featured in “Yellowstone.” The crowd responded enthusiastically to his performance, showcasing his talent and potential in the country genre. Both artists seem poised for bright futures.

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Wilson Takes Center Stage

The concert’s featured artist graced the stage with a production that set the perfect mood. A truck adorned with flowers stood center stage, while a backdrop displayed images of the American heartland, creating a quintessential country atmosphere.

Wilson performed from atop the truck, pouring her heart into each song and exuding a rock star energy that also showcased her versatility as a country artist.

Emotional Highlights and Crowd Interaction

Several highlights defined the evening, including an emotional performance of “Things a Man Oughta Know,” which moved the audience to respond with enthusiastic applause. Regardless of the song — be it “Middle of It,” “Whirlwind,” or “Ring Finger” — the crowd sang along to every lyric echoing from her microphone.

The energy was infectious as Wilson took the driver’s seat in the truck for “Heart Like A Truck.” The female attendees particularly embraced the moment during her performance of “Atta Girl,” while her rendition of “Proud Mary” left a lasting impression.

Heartfelt moments punctuated the show, including Wilson’s tradition of inviting a young girl from the audience to the stage as “Cowgirl of the Night.” She selected a 12-year-old, gifting her a jacket adorned with inspirational quotes. As Wilson shared stories behind her songs, she offered the crowd words of encouragement, deepening their connection. She also showcased new material, including “Keeping Up with Jones” from her latest album.

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Musical Prowess on Display

Wilson’s guitar skills were undeniable, highlighted during a memorable moment when she sat in the truck bed, strumming her acoustic guitar. She shuffled through songs she had collaborated on with other artists, including “Never Say Never” (Cole Swindell), “Wait in the Truck” (Hardy), and “Save Me” (Jelly Roll).

Wilson commanded the stage with her Louisiana flair, effortlessly guiding the audience in response to her every cue. During “Country’s Cool,” everyone clapped in unison, while “4 x 4 x U” had attendees swaying their arms side to side. Later, the crowd lit up the venue with their cell phones, waving them in sync.

She wrapped up the night with “Wildflowers and Wild Horses,” leaving no doubt that she is the real deal. For those curious about the current state and future of country music, one name stands out: Lainey Wilson.