By Judy Shields
Hollywood, CA (The Hollywood Times) 07/17/2026
Rising Texas singer-songwriter Celeste Marie Wilson is set to release her deeply personal new single, “Marie,” on July 17.
Inspired by the true love story of her great-grandparents, the song tells the tale of a young rodeo cowboy who worked tirelessly to buy an engagement ring and the daughter of a prominent landowning family who left everything behind to follow her heart. Carrying her great-grandmother’s name, Wilson honors her family’s legacy with a timeless country ballad rooted in faith, sacrifice and enduring love. “Marie” was premiered by Center Stage Magazine.
Celeste discussed her new country music single “Marie” being released on July 17th, explaining how she initially started writing alternative rock music but transitioned to country after her mother’s suggestion. She described writing the song in about 20 minutes and explained that every part of the song is based on real people and experiences from her life in Texas. Celeste also shared that she began writing songs at age 18 after previously writing poems, and had experience in musical theater, though she noted the distance from Texas made Broadway unlikely.
Watch out Country Music lovers, Celeste Marie Wilson reminds me of a younger Lacy J. Dalton and Kathy Mattea. Her new single is a hit that will reach your soul and remind us all of our heritage and how much plays a part of our lives. Judy Shields, The Hollywood Times
“Growing up, I always loved hearing the story of my great grandparents. Carrying my great grandmother’s name makes this song even more personal to me. ‘Marie’ is my way of honoring their incredible love story and preserving a piece of my family’s history through music.”
Enjoy our conversation with Celeste Marie Wilson and lets all welcome her to Country Music:
Celeste Marie Wilson continued to build momentum with several career milestones, including a main stage performance at the annual Women Songwriters Hall of Fame in Washington, D.C., where she joined celebrated songwriters recognized for their contributions to music.
Celeste discussed her recent win as an ambassador for the Women’s Songwriters Hall of Fame, where she performed on the main stage alongside iconic inductees like Bunny DeBarge. She explained that her role involves participating in upcoming charity events for children’s hospitals and raising awareness about the organization’s mission to recognize female songwriters who previously received little credit. Celeste also shared her surprise at being nominated for Best Actress in a music video at the Josie Music Awards Foundation for her “Ever Wanted” music video, which had an 80s dance theme inspired by the Cinderella story.
She also earned a nomination for Best Actress in a Music Video from the Josie Music Awards Foundation as her single, “Jesus, Tequila, and Whiskey,” gained traction on country radio. Throughout the year, Wilson released new music, including “What Else Could I Need?,” performed at multiple SpringBoard Festivals showcases across the country, and capped off the year with a Christmas project featuring The Mighty Orq, Marvan Alexander and Dan Smith.
“I attended last year and met so many internationally recognized songwriters,” Celeste said. “To be invited back to perform was an incredible honor.”
Celeste discussed her personal reflections on content she chose not to write about, expressing gratitude for what she already has in life. She shared details about a Christmas project she’s working on, which involves reimagining classic Christmas songs with modern elements like bar band sounds and country rock influences to make them more accessible to newer audiences. Judy expressed enthusiasm about discussing both the new album and the Christmas project in future conversations.
More about Celeste Marie WIlson
Celeste Marie Wilson is a Texas country and Americana singer-songwriter carrying on a family legacy of poets, painters and musicians. Inspired by the timeless artistry of Patsy Cline, Emmylou Harris, Dolly Parton and Bonnie Raitt, she crafts what she calls “whiskey in a teacup” songs, blending heartfelt storytelling with quiet strength and undeniable grit.
Produced by Jim Reilley, Wilson records under her own imprint, Little Dipper Record Company, (named after her dog Dipper) distributed by Select O Hits and The Orchard.
A 2026 Women Songwriters Hall of Fame ambassador and International Songwriting Competition semifinalist, Wilson continues to earn recognition for her authentic songwriting and distinctive voice. Her debut album, Southern American Princess, is slated for release in August 2026.
