Show summary Hide summary
LeAnn Rimes just dropped ‘Wild Things Run,’ a stunning new single released February 24, 2026 that captures the wild, untamed love story central to her 9-1-1: Nashville character. The Grammy-winning country icon didn’t just perform this song, she wrote and co-produced it alongside Darrell Brown, infusing her character’s emotional backstory into every note.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Release Date: February 24, 2026, across all major streaming platforms
- Connection: Written and produced for Dixie Bennings character arc in 9-1-1: Nashville, premiering Thursday, February 26
- Creative Credit: Co-written with Darrell Brown, combining with his production expertise
- Cinematic Vibe: Roy Orbison inspired throwback feel with modern sonic elements and emotional depth
From Massage Table Inspiration to Hit Single
LeAnn Rimes revealed the surprising origin story of ‘Wild Things Run’ during her Good Morning America appearance. The title struck her while receiving a massage in Hawaii during a performance tour. The concept captured her vision of two wild spirits running together, then apart, only to be brought back by fate.
The 90s country queen explained how she proactively reached out to show creator Rashad Raisani about contributing music. ‘I said, use me, this is what I actually do for a job,’ she revealed. Her genuine connection to Dixie’s character informed every lyrical choice, making this far more than a soundtrack contribution.
LeAnn Rimes drops new single ‘Wild Things Run’ with hidden Dixie connection
Robert De Niro tears up calling Trump ‘enemy of the country’ at State of the Swamp event
Two Distinct Versions, One Powerful Story
‘Wild Things Run’ exists in two forms designed for different storytelling purposes. The in-show version begins stripped-back and raw, representing a younger Dixie as an undiscovered songwriter just beginning her journey. The production gradually builds, mirroring her character’s arc of discovery and growth.
Rimes recorded a separate full version as her own record, infusing it with a ‘cinematic’ production value she described as inspired by Roy Orbison’s timeless emotional delivery. The independently produced single leans into orchestral drama while maintaining modern sensibilities, creating something entirely her own.
Dixie’s Heartbreaking Flashback Episode
| Detail | Information |
| Airing Date | Thursday, February 26, 2026, 9:00 PM ET on ABC |
| Episode Title | “Don Begins” |
| Character Focus | Dixie Bennings and Don’s relationship origin, including backstory through flashbacks |
| Supporting Plot | Exploration of Don’s devastating house fire and his connections to both Dixie and wife Blythe |
The February 26 episode reveals Dixie and Don’s origins through significant flashbacks, explaining why these former lovers remain so deeply connected despite their complicated past. Hunter McVey returns as Blue, their shared son, grounding the emotional stakes in real family consequences.
“The universe always brings us back together.” Drawing on this personal philosophy, Rimes crafted lyrics capturing how Dixie and Don’s wild spirits perpetually collide despite life’s unpredictability.
— LeAnn Rimes, on the creative philosophy behind ‘Wild Things Run’
A New Direction in the Making
Rimes hinted that ‘Wild Things Run’ marks a potential turning point in her recording career. She stated that the cinematic songwriting approach opened creative doors she’d been searching for. The 30-year country music veteran revealed uncertainty about her next album’s direction until this project reignited her creative spark.
The iconic ‘How Do I Live’ artist emphasized her philosophy of living life between albums to generate authentic songwriting material. Her most recent studio album was ‘god’s work’ released in September 2022, followed by expanded and holiday editions. This indicates ‘Wild Things Run’ could signal the beginning of her seventh original album.
Will ‘Wild Things Run’ Lead to a Full Album
LeAnn Rimes remains intentional about creative timing rather than industry pressure. While she hasn’t announced a full album project, the songwriting momentum from ‘Wild Things Run’ appears genuine and promising. Her recent 30-year career milestone approaching in 2026 adds poignant timing for major announcements.
Fans can stream ‘Wild Things Run’ now on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and all major platforms. Watch the cinematic lyric video featuring her official version, and tune into ABC Thursday for the 9-1-1: Nashville episode premiere airing the in-show soundtrack version.
Sources
- iHeart Country – LeAnn Rimes premieres ‘Wild Things Run’ written for 9-1-1: Nashville character before Good Morning America interview
- TV Insider – LeAnn Rimes interviews about co-writing and producing song for Dixie’s backstory episode
- ArtVoice – LeAnn Rimes returns with cinematic ballad single confirming official release date
