Lainey Wilson Wows at iHeartRadio, Pays Tribute to Miley Cyrus in a Full-Circle Moment
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The Louisiana-born singer performed three of her most popular songs and then paid tribute to Miley Cyrus with an emotional speech.
Lainey Wilson Stuns at 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards, Honors Miley Cyrus in Emotional Tribute
Lainey Wilson captured the spotlight at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards on Thursday with a high-energy, multi-song set that left the audience on their feet.
The show began in striking black and white as Wilson delivered the haunting opening verse of her hit “Wildflowers and Wild Horses.” As the performance intensified, the crowd clapped along, accompanied by visuals of flowers and horses projected on the massive screens behind her. A soaring high note transitioned seamlessly into “Hang Tight Honey.”
Walking toward the camera, Wilson crowned viewers the “Cowgirl of the Night”—a familiar moment for fans at her live shows—then placed her hat over the lens. In an instant, the stage burst into vivid color.
She continued “Hang Tight Honey” before moving into “Heart Like A Truck,” performing without her signature hat. Commanding the stage with confidence, Wilson danced, engaged with fans, and brought energy to every corner of the arena.
After her performance, Wilson presented Miley Cyrus with the prestigious iHeartRadio Innovator Award—a milestone that marked a full-circle moment for Wilson, who once performed as a Hannah Montana impersonator while building her own career.
“Now I want to talk about one of my biggest inspirations, Miley…Miley Cyrus,” Wilson said. “Miley embodies what happens when fearlessness meets evolution. She didn’t just grow up in the public eye—she continuously reinvented herself, breaking out of the boxes others tried to confine her in and pushing boundaries in music, style, and storytelling.”
Wilson went on to praise Cyrus for her authenticity and for paving the way for other female artists:
“She has never asked for permission, and that’s what makes her an innovator. She takes risks most artists wouldn’t dare, turning them into moments that move culture forward. Whether it’s a stripped-down ballad or a bold reinvention, Miley proves that artistry isn’t about staying comfortable—it’s about staying honest. That kind of truth doesn’t just change music; it changes people. And that, my friends, is innovation—that is Miley Cyrus.”