In the realm of contemporary country music, Lainey Wilson stands out with her distinctive blend of vintage Southern rock, classic rock, and modern pop influences. Her heartfelt songs and captivating performances have endeared her to many fans, earning her accolades such as the 2022 ACM Award for Song of the Year for her hit track “Things a Man Oughta Know.” As she continues to make strides in the music industry and in her acting career on Yellowstone, fans are eager to learn more about her personal life, particularly her romantic relationships.
Lainey Wilson is currently in a relationship with former Pittsburgh Steelers player Devlin “Duck” Hodges. Their love story has been quietly unfolding, with Devlin expressing his admiration for Lainey via social media for quite some time. In the first half of 2023, Devlin frequently shared posts praising Lainey’s artistry, eventually indicating romantic interest in a bold tweet on April 19, 2023. He openly declared Lainey as his choice in response to a tweet asking followers whose DMs they would slide into. Subsequently, Devlin made it clear that he was making a romantic gesture towards Lainey by inviting her to reach out and stating, “Shooting my shot,” leaving no room for interpretation about his intentions. Lainey reciprocated the sentiment by responding to his tweet with excitement, which marked the beginning of their blossoming romance.
This charming exchange between Lainey and Devlin led to their first public appearance as a couple at the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards on May 7, 2023. The charismatic pair had been nurturing their relationship for over two years, as revealed by Lainey herself during an intimate interview with The Bobby Bones Show in June 2023. Describing her 27-year-old partner, she praised him as a “good dude” who empathizes with the journey of chasing dreams, having trodden that path himself. She highlighted his supportive nature, emphasizing his encouragement and understanding of her ambitions. Lainey shared with affection, “He’s been around for a while… I just decided to make him wait for two and a half years.”
While details about Lainey’s past relationships are scarce, it is evident that she values her privacy regarding her romantic life. The singer-songwriter has chosen to keep her previous suitors out of the public eye, suggesting that these relationships may not have been substantial enough to warrant public disclosure. Despite her discretion, Lainey has hinted at her romantic history through her music, particularly in songs like “Watermelon Moonshine.” In a lighthearted manner, she mentioned that many of her ex-boyfriends believe the song is about them, adding a playful touch to her storytelling. Lainey amusingly remarked, “‘No! Do you not realize I dated other people than you!’ I’m like, ‘Boy, if that butters your biscuit, if that makes you feel good, you’re right. I wrote it about ya.'”
While Lainey’s playful references provide glimpses into her past relationships, she has chosen not to disclose the specific individuals who inspired the lyrics of her songs. This air of mystery surrounding her personal life only adds to her allure as an artist, prompting fans to speculate about the narratives behind her heartfelt tracks. Lainey’s ability to weave personal experiences into her music resonates with her audience, creating a sense of connection and relatability that transcends her own romantic history.
Lainey Wilson’s romantic journey with Devlin “Duck” Hodges showcases a blend of admiration, support, and genuine connection. Their partnership symbolizes a bond rooted in shared experiences and mutual encouragement, reflecting the essence of a flourishing relationship in the spotlight. As Lainey continues to captivate audiences with her soulful music and magnetic presence, her love story with Devlin adds another layer of depth to her artistic narrative, inviting fans to celebrate the beauty of love in all its forms.