“Trailblazer”: Reba, Miranda & Lainey Unite for an Emotional Anthem Honoring Country Music’s Fierce Female Legacy

Country music fans are in for something truly special this week. When Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson, and Brandy Clark sat down to write a new song, they had one voice in mind to bring it to life alongside them: the legendary Reba McEntire. Now, that vision becomes reality with the debut of “Trailblazer”, set to premiere during the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards on Thursday, May 8, and available on all streaming platforms at 8 p.m. ET the same night.

 The Story Behind “Trailblazer”

Written during a creative session at Lambert’s home, “Trailblazer” is more than just a song—it’s a heartfelt tribute to the women who shaped country music. Inspired by Wilson’s admiration for both Lambert and McEntire, the track quickly became a celebration of female strength and legacy.

Produced by Tony Brown and recorded in Nashville, the ballad gives a shoutout to trailblazing legends like Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, and Tammy Wynette, while shining a light on how their influence continues to empower new generations of women in country.

“We’ve got to keep blazing those trails for the next one,” Wilson shared in a recent Billboard interview.

 Writing Through Tears

From the very beginning, the emotional weight of “Trailblazer” was deeply felt by everyone involved. Both Lambert and Wilson admitted they were brought to tears while writing, describing a spiritual energy that took hold of the room.

“It’s not about us,” Lambert said. “It’s about what the song means to little girls out there watching… anyone with a dream who just needs to know they’re not alone.”

 Reba’s Reaction: “Not a Flaw in It”

McEntire’s first listen to the track left her emotional and deeply moved. She recalled sitting in a dressing room, struck by the song’s perfection:

“I couldn’t find a flaw in it, not a word,” she said. “It was that great.”

Reba, who will also host the ACM Awards, hinted that more collaborations with Lambert and Wilson are likely in the future, noting how today’s generation of artists feel more united thanks to the power of digital connection.

“Now we’re more friends, and it’s a family,” McEntire said. “It’s totally different, and I like it this way.”

 Fellowship, Not Competition

The spirit of “Trailblazer” echoes in the relationships among today’s top country women. Lambert and Wilson emphasized the importance of uplifting each other, rejecting the tired trope of women being pitted against one another.

“One of the first people to give me a seat at the table was Miranda,” Wilson said. “She made me feel welcome—like she was my cheerleader.”

 Don’t Miss the Debut

The world premiere of “Trailblazer” will happen live during the 2025 ACM Awards on Thursday, May 8 at 8 p.m. ET, streaming exclusively on Prime Video from The Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas.

Whether you’re a fan of country classics or a supporter of today’s powerful female voices, “Trailblazer” is more than a song — it’s a celebration of the past, present, and future of women in country music.

🎶 Be sure to watch, listen, and feel the legacy unfold.