Lainey Wilson Delivers a Haunting Halloween Cover of YUNGBLUD’s “Zombie”
Lainey Wilson brought her signature soul and grit to Halloween this year with a moody, stripped-down rendition of YUNGBLUD’s emotional ballad, “Zombie.” The country star took to Instagram to share the intimate performance, pairing raw vulnerability with a touch of haunting Southern charm.
A Striking Visual and a Simple Setup
Sitting on a front porch illuminated by soft autumn light, Wilson looked every bit the country outlaw in a black fringe leather jacket, sleek black cowboy hat, and red acoustic guitar resting in her lap. The minimalist setup let her voice take center stage — smoky, emotive, and full of quiet ache.
“In honor of Halloween… I’ve had this one stuck in my head lately,” Wilson wrote in her caption, setting the tone for what would become one of her most unexpected and chilling covers yet.
The Story Behind “Zombie”
Originally written by Matt Schwartz and Dominic Harrison (better known as YUNGBLUD), “Zombie” dives deep into themes of pain, loss, and identity. Harrison previously told Billboard that the song was inspired by watching his grandmother change after a devastating injury — a reflection on how trauma can alter who we are.
“It’s about the feeling of deterioration and ugliness; shutting out the world and the people we love out of the fear of becoming a burden or an embarrassment,” he explained.
“We all want someone or something to comfort us no matter how we are right now or who we become in the future. But it’s f—ing scary.”
Wilson’s Soulful Interpretation
Wilson’s rendition captures that same haunting vulnerability, but through a Southern lens. Her Louisiana drawl lends an earthy warmth to the melancholy lyrics, balancing fragility with strength.
She begins softly, her voice trembling as she sings:
“If I was to talk about the words / They would hurt, they would hurt / So if you were to ask about the pain / I would lie, I would lie…”
As the chorus unfolds, Wilson’s voice rises in restrained anguish — the pain of loving someone who’s fighting their own demons:
“Oh, I know that I can’t live without you / But this world will keep turning if you do / Would you even want me looking like a zombie? / Would you even want me, want me, want me?”
It’s a stunning display of her ability to transcend genres while staying rooted in authenticity — proving, once again, that Wilson’s artistry knows no boundaries.
A Country Star with Rock ’n’ Roll Edge
Though “Zombie” is far from a traditional country song, Wilson’s performance breathes new life into it. Her stripped-back delivery and emotional honesty show why she’s become one of country music’s most respected voices — one who can effortlessly blur lines between genres without losing her essence.
What’s Next for Lainey Wilson
The “Heart Like a Truck” hitmaker shows no signs of slowing down. Next month, Wilson will make history as the solo host of the 2025 CMA Awards, marking her first time leading the show on her own.
Meanwhile, her massive Whirlwind World Tour continues to roll across the U.S., with dates wrapping up November 8 in Orlando, Florida, and one final year-end performance in Las Vegas on December 7.
This Halloween cover was more than just a seasonal treat — it was a reminder of Wilson’s range, artistry, and emotional power. In her hands, even a song about decay and pain becomes something deeply human, haunting, and beautiful.