Lainey Wilson Ditches Signature Hat for iHeartRadio Music Awards Performance

The country star took off her black cowboy hat during her energetic medley of hits.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 10:31pm

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Lainey Wilson performed a trio of her songs at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards, including 'Wildflowers and Wild Horses,' 'Hang Tight Honey,' and 'Heart Like a Truck.' She notably removed her signature black cowboy hat after the first song, showcasing a new look for the awards show performance. Wilson also had the honor of presenting the iHeartRadio Innovator Award to her idol, Miley Cyrus.

Why it matters

Lainey Wilson is known for her distinctive style, including her trademark black cowboy hat. Her decision to remove the hat during her iHeartRadio performance was a notable departure from her usual look, potentially signaling a new creative direction or evolution in her personal style. Additionally, her tribute to Miley Cyrus highlights the influence that established artists can have on up-and-coming musicians.

The details

Wilson opened her iHeartRadio performance in an all-black-and-white outfit, performing 'Wildflowers and Wild Horses.' She then transitioned to a colorful, floral-adorned outfit as she removed her cowboy hat and continued the medley with 'Hang Tight Honey' and 'Heart Like a Truck.' This marked Wilson's first time performing on the iHeartRadio Music Awards stage. In addition to her own set, Wilson also had the honor of presenting Miley Cyrus with the iHeartRadio Innovator Award, calling Cyrus one of her biggest inspirations.

  • Lainey Wilson performed during the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards on March 26.
  • On Monday, March 23, Lainey attended the premiere of the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special in Los Angeles.

The players

Lainey Wilson

A country music singer-songwriter who is known for her distinctive style, including her signature black cowboy hat. She performed a medley of her hits at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards and presented the iHeartRadio Innovator Award to her idol, Miley Cyrus.

Miley Cyrus

A pop star who was honored with the iHeartRadio Innovator Award at the 2026 ceremony. Lainey Wilson presented the award to Cyrus, calling her one of her biggest inspirations.

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What they’re saying

“Miley Cyrus is what happens when fearlessness meets evolution. She didn't just grow up in front of the world: She redefined herself in front of it over and over and then over again …”

— Lainey Wilson

“From breaking out of a box that people tried to put her in, to pushing boundaries in sound and style, in storytelling, she keeps taking risks that most artists would not dare to take… (and that) move culture forward. Miley reminds us that artistry is not about staying comfortable. It is about staying honest. That is what you call innovation, folks. And that is Miley Cyrus.”

— Lainey Wilson

The takeaway

Lainey Wilson's decision to remove her signature cowboy hat during her iHeartRadio Music Awards performance signals a potential evolution in her personal style and creative direction. Her tribute to Miley Cyrus also highlights the lasting impact that established artists can have on up-and-coming musicians, inspiring them to take risks and redefine themselves.