Lainey Wilson, the celebrated country music star, has shared the exciting news of her engagement to her boyfriend, Devlin “Duck” Hodges, marking the culmination of four beautiful years of togetherness. The engagement, a moment of pure joy, took place at a location steeped in country music history—the stunning Franklin, Tennessee estate once owned by the legendary artist George Jones. Known as one of the most iconic voices in country music, George Jones’ $5.95 million manor served as the perfect backdrop for this special moment, a place where love and legacy intertwined. For Lainey, a longtime admirer of Jones, the setting held deep meaning, especially considering her own musical journey and the tributes she has paid to the late singer through her work.
The historic estate, which boasts 9,000 square feet of elegance, was famously built by George Jones in 1993 on a sprawling 25-acre property. With its four bedrooms and seven and a half bathrooms, the manor is a testament to the grandeur of Jones’ career and legacy. Interestingly, the home was recently listed for sale, offering a rare glimpse into the life of one of country music’s most revered artists. For Lainey and Duck, choosing this venue for their engagement was not just a romantic gesture but also a nod to the musical heritage that has inspired Lainey’s career. The connection is even more poignant given that Lainey released a song titled “Keep Up With Jones” in 2023, a heartfelt tribute to the legendary artist whose music was a staple in her home growing up. As she mentioned to Forbes, Jones was “one of the artists [her] parents played all the time,” highlighting the significant role his music played in shaping her musical tastes and aspirations.
Taking to Instagram to share the joyful news, Lainey gave her fans a glimpse into the romantic proposal. The heartwarming photos and videos posted by the Grammy-winning artist captured the essence of the moment. In one of the snapshots, Duck is seen holding up a cowboy hat-shaped ring box—a playful nod to their country roots—as Lainey flashes the dazzling diamond ring that now adorns her finger. Another moment captured was Lainey walking down the grand front steps of the estate, her hand raised to the camera to showcase the stunning ring, her smile radiant with happiness. The caption she chose for the post, “4x4xU forever ❤️,” was a sweet reference to a track from her upcoming 2024 album, “Whirlwind,” tying the moment to her music and the journey she and Duck have shared.
Lainey and Duck’s relationship, which began in 2021, has been a beautiful blend of love, support, and mutual admiration. Duck, a former NFL player who had brief stints with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Rams, has been a constant source of encouragement for the singer. In an interview with Billboard last summer, Lainey gushed about how lucky she felt to have found a partner who celebrated her independence and career success. “I have found a man that is so happy that he’s with a lady that can do her own thing,” she shared, emphasizing Duck’s role as her “cheerleader.” Their relationship made its red carpet debut in 2023 at the ACM Awards, marking a significant milestone in their journey together. With Duck by her side, Lainey has continued to soar in her career, releasing hit songs like “Heart Like a Truck” and earning widespread acclaim for her unique voice and authenticity.
The engagement at George Jones’ estate was not just a romantic gesture but also a meaningful convergence of Lainey’s personal and professional life. The manor, with its rich history and connection to country music, provided a fitting setting for the couple to embark on their new chapter together. For Lainey, who has often spoken about the influence of classic country artists like Jones on her music, the location added an extra layer of significance to the moment. It was as if the spirits of country music’s past were celebrating alongside them, fostering a sense of continuity and tradition. As Lainey continues to make her mark on the music industry, this engagement serves as a reminder of the love and legacy that inspire her every step of the way.
Looking ahead, Lainey and Duck’s engagement is a testament to their enduring love and commitment to one another. As they prepare for their future together, fans of the country star can’t help but feel a sense of joy and excitement for the couple. With their relationship deeply rooted in mutual respect and admiration, Lainey and Duck are set to write their own chapter in the story of love and music. And as Lainey’s album title “Whirlwind” suggests, their journey together is sure to be nothing short of an unforgettable adventure, filled with love, laughter, and the music that brought them closer together.
