Stephen Wilson Jr. made a notable debut of his new song “Gary” on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on November 18, 2025, captivating audiences with a heartfelt tribute to the working class. The country singer-songwriter not only performed the track during the show but also released its studio version the following day across all major streaming platforms. This single marks the lead track from his eagerly awaited album, which follows his critically acclaimed 2023 release, “Søn of Dad.”
Raised in a family that operated a body shop in Indiana, Wilson drew inspiration from a lifestyle deeply rooted in skilled trades, reflecting the necessity of DIY repair work during his upbringing. “There’s no money to hire somebody to fix something, so you just got to learn how to fix it,” he shared in an interview. His song, “Gary,” addresses the plight of diminishing blue-collar workers in America, emphasizing what society could lose if these vital trades are forgotten.
The chorus of “Gary” delivers a poignant message about the value of blue-collar work, encapsulating the essence of Wilson’s concern regarding the decline of skilled trades. With lyrics like “Time leaves town but the minute hand stays,” he evokes a sense of nostalgia for the workforce that historically shaped the country. Wilson argues that the push towards higher education has overshadowed the importance of trade skills, leaving a gap that could have lasting repercussions on society.
After his dynamic performance on Kimmel, which showcased his vocal prowess and the song’s full production, Wilson has announced an exciting schedule ahead. He is set to perform at the CMA Awards on November 19, 2025, alongside Shaboozey, and he plans to host a series of encore concerts in Las Vegas before the year concludes. Additionally, Wilson will embark on the “Gary The Torch Tour,” kicking off on March 6, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio, and continuing through various major cities including Philadelphia, Chicago, and New York.
Wilson, whose sound merges country with elements of grunge and rock, has garnered respect within the industry, evident from his nomination for the 2025 CMA Awards New Artist of the Year. “Gary” stands on the brink of becoming a significant anthem that resonates with the pride of working-class heroes across the nation, potentially marking a transformative moment in country music.
As Wilson embarks on this journey with his new music, there is a hopeful sentiment that his dedication to celebrating skilled trades and those who embody them will inspire listeners to honor these essential contributions to society. If successful, his message could redefine how future generations perceive labor and tradition in the evolving landscape of country music.