” Trailblazer ” – Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert & Lainey Wilson

About the song

“Trailblazer,” the powerful collaboration between Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert, and Lainey Wilson, a song that serves as a heartfelt tribute to the pioneering women of country music and a celebration of their enduring legacy. Released in May 2025, this track is more than just a star-studded collaboration; it’s a meaningful acknowledgment of the shoulders upon which these contemporary artists stand and a commitment to continuing the tradition of strong female voices in the genre.

The lyrics of “Trailblazer” are a direct and sincere homage to the women who paved the way for generations of country singers. The song explicitly name-checks iconic figures like Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, and Tammy Wynette, recognizing their groundbreaking contributions and the paths they forged in a male-dominated industry. Each of the three performers takes a verse to share their personal connection to these legends and to articulate how these “trailblazer” artists influenced their own journeys. The song beautifully weaves together the past, present, and future of women in country music, emphasizing the importance of honoring those who came before while also looking ahead to the ongoing work of carving new paths.

The vocal blend of Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert, and Lainey Wilson is a testament to the strength and diversity of female talent in country music. Reba’s iconic and powerful vocals, Miranda’s raw and authentic delivery, and Lainey’s distinctive and rising voice create a rich tapestry of sound that honors the traditions while also showcasing their individual styles. Their harmonies are particularly potent, symbolizing the unity and shared appreciation for the women who came before them. The collaboration feels genuine and heartfelt, a true sisterhood united by their love of country music and their respect for its female pioneers.

The musical arrangement of “Trailblazer” is a thoughtful blend of classic and contemporary country sounds. Featuring a strong acoustic foundation, the instrumentation incorporates elements of traditional country instrumentation with a modern sensibility, creating a sound that feels both timeless and relevant. The melody is heartfelt and memorable, allowing the powerful lyrics and the emotional delivery of the three vocalists to take center stage. The production is polished yet retains a sense of sincerity and reverence for the song’s important message.

“Trailblazer” is more than just a collaborative single; it’s a significant statement about the lineage and future of women in country music. By explicitly honoring their forebears and declaring their commitment to continuing to blaze trails for future generations, Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert, and Lainey Wilson have created a powerful and meaningful anthem. This song resonates not only with fans of these three artists but with anyone who appreciates the strength, resilience, and enduring impact of women in country music, solidifying the term “trailblazer” as a vital part of the genre’s narrative.

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Lyrics

Everybody needs a hero
Somebody who can show ’em the ropes
You gave a match like me a little kerosene
With every song you wrote

I’m lucky to have someone to lean on
When the weeds get high
A little Louisiana twang and some Oklahoma rain
And a heart that just won’t lie

Oh, I know a cowgirl when I see one
And I’m sure proud to be one

Talk about a trailblazer cuttin’ one path at a time
Runnin’ like a dream chaser, livin’ on a prayer and a rhyme
You put a flag in the ground to a country sound
To the rhythm of your own highway
Talk about a trailblazer, I’m rollin’ down the road you paved

I saw ’em on the Opry
I heard ’em on the radio
They taught me how to ride, how to hold on tight
In this rhinestone rodeo

It was Dolly and Loretta
Patsy and Tammy too
They gave me a seat at the table
So I’m savin’ one for you

Talk about a trailblazer cuttin’ one path at a time
Runnin’ like a dream chaser, livin’ on a prayer and a rhyme
You put a flag in the ground to a country sound
To the rhythm of your own highway
Talk about a trailblazer, I’m rollin’ down the road you paved

God said, “Let there be country music”
He made good ol’ country girls like us to do it

Talk about a trailblazer cuttin’ one path at a time
Runnin’ like a dream chaser, livin’ on a prayer and a rhyme
You put a flag in the ground to a country sound
To the rhythm of your own highway
Talk about a trailblazer, I’m rollin’ down the road you paved

Oh, thank you, trailblazers, I’m rollin’ down the road you paved