• Stephen Wilson Jr. recorded a Howard 101 concert special live in The Howard Stern Show studio.
  • He performed his new single “Gary” and delivered a cover of Ben E. King’s classic “Stand by Me.”
  • Wilson discussed his musical beginnings, his weathered Takamine guitar “One,” and his rapid rise after a 2025 CMA New Artist nomination.

H2: Stephen Wilson Jr. makes Stern Show debut

Stephen Wilson Jr. visited The Howard Stern Show on Tuesday morning to record a Howard 101 special and perform live for Howard and listeners. The rising rock and country artist played his haunting new single “Gary” and offered a stripped-back cover of “Stand by Me,” connecting with the studio audience and longtime fans.

H3: From shy kid to rising star

Wilson Jr. told Howard he was a quiet child who found his voice through the guitar. After his father gifted him an instrument at 16, he began practicing up to 12 hours a day. He taught himself Soundgarden songs, adopted percussive acoustic techniques inspired by Dave Matthews, and developed the sound that would earn him a 2025 CMA Awards New Artist of the Year nomination.

H3: The story behind “One” — his battle‑worn guitar

Howard asked about the worn guitar Stephen brought to the studio, a Takamine he calls “One.” Wilson Jr. shared that he bought it from a Craigslist seller out of a Nashville parking lot for $400. The weathered instrument reminded Howard of Willie Nelson’s “Trigger,” and Stephen described the moment he plugged it in and knew it was “forever.”

H2: Live performances — “Gary” and “Stand by Me”

The performance of “Gary” drew praise for its emotional weight and sparse arrangement, highlighting Wilson Jr.’s smoky vocals and acoustic command. He followed with a soulful rendition of “Stand by Me,” which showcased his ability to bridge modern country-rock songwriting with classic influences.

H4: Tune in and tour dates

Howard Stern Presents: Stephen Wilson Jr. airs Friday, Feb. 10 at 7 p.m. on Howard 101. Fans can also find more information on his upcoming tour dates at stephenwilsonjr.com.

H4: Watch the performance

Watch the Stern Show clip and the studio performance on The Howard Stern Show’s official YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/howardstern

H5: Why this matters

Stephen Wilson Jr.’s Stern appearance underscores his growing profile in country and rock circles. With a CMA nomination, a viral-ready single, and authentic storytelling rooted in hands-on musicianship, he’s positioned to expand his audience both on radio and on the road.

Socials: Follow The Howard Stern Show on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter) and Threads for clips and updates.

Stephen Wilson Jr. left the studio with a clear message: his music is built on long hours, real instruments and a direct connection to listeners. That combination carried through his Howard 101 special and will likely follow him throughout his upcoming tour.

Image Referance: https://www.howardstern.com/news/2026/02/10/video-stephen-wilson-jr-performs-gary-and-covers-stand-by-me-in-stern-show-debut/