With only one Emmy nomination for the hit Paramount series, Lainey Wilson is hoping to make Yellowstone history as her original song “Smell Like Smoke” for the Dutton drama is set to be submitted for consideration in the outstanding music and lyrics category for the Emmys.
If you’re not a Dutton die-hard, it might surprise you that Yellowstone has only been awarded one nomination throughout the five-year history of the series, and it was for Outstanding Production Design in 2021.
Variety first shared the news about Wilson’s “Smell Like Smoke” being an opportunity for Yellowstone to add a long-overdue win during the Emmys and a quote from the singer/songwriter about what made the tune such a fit for the cowboy-centric series.
The talented and beloved Wilson says “Smell Like Smoke” is the perfect Dutton song as it “centers around four pillars that make Yellowstone what it is — cowboys, heartbreak, self-assurance, and faith.”
The lyrics to the song are something every character in Yellowstone can relate to, especially the first line that Lainey says made them all know this was a sure winner for the Dutton drama.
“‘If I smell like smoke, it’s only cause I’ve been through hell’… It was a little rough around the edges, but with good energy, which we thought was perfect for Yellowstone.”
Wilson’s tune isn’t the only way she’s showcased in the Yellowstone universe; fans know she appeared in season five of the cowboy drama as a musician named Abby. Lucky for Wilson, she’s a friend of showrunner Taylor Sheridan, so he crafted the character specifically for her. This allowed her to grace the series with her own heart, talent, and truth — and Abby is a character fans fell for quickly, her authenticity shining through.
Sheridan knows what he’s doing when it comes to casting actors for their respective characters, and he’s in the same boat as many fans who wonder how they’ve been such a powerhouse without receiving the award nominations many feel they deserve. It’s not about winning; it’s about the recognition from a group of your peers, as he explained to Deadline.
“I’ve hired some of the most talented actors out there to bring these characters to life, and to see them be recognized is long overdue. I will say this, it took the coasts a bit to find this show, and once they found it, they’ve responded to the talent, the dedication of the actors. When you’re nominated for an award by any of your respective guilds, it’s the greatest honor you can receive. Because it’s your peers. It’s a lot of actors saying, that was really good acting. That means a lot to them, and it should.”
Here’s hoping Wilson’s song brings home Emmy gold for the series — as it is the perfect fit for Yellowstone. We’re crossing our fingers — not that she needs it — and hoping we’ve got more seasons on the horizon for the cast and crew to get the recognition they continue to deserve.
