Introduction
Miranda Lambert Turns Up the Charm and Swagger with “Actin’ Up” at the TIME100 Gala
When it comes to commanding a stage with effortless confidence and a touch of Southern sass, few do it better than Miranda Lambert. At the 2022 TIME100 Gala, Lambert brought her signature blend of storytelling, attitude, and wit to the forefront with a stunning live rendition of “Actin’ Up.” This performance wasn’t just a highlight of the evening—it was a reminder of how country music can strut its way into even the most refined, black-tie venues and still feel completely at home.
“Actin’ Up,” a track from Lambert’s critically acclaimed album Palomino, is a song that thrives on playful rebellion and wanderlust. Its lyrics read like a list of whims and daydreams—riding camels in the desert, sipping cocktails at the Moulin Rouge, and kicking up dust in the American South. The song’s musicality mirrors its spirit, with a groove-laden rhythm, twangy riffs, and a melody that’s as catchy as it is carefree.
Live at the TIME100 Gala, Lambert delivered the song with just the right amount of tongue-in-cheek charm. Dressed elegantly yet with her unmistakable country flair, she captivated the audience from the first note. There’s a special kind of charisma that Miranda brings to her live performances—equal parts storyteller, outlaw, and friend—and this night was no exception.
What made this performance stand out wasn’t just the song itself, but the setting. Singing “Actin’ Up” in front of a crowd that included global leaders, activists, artists, and changemakers, Lambert reminded everyone that celebration, authenticity, and a bit of rebellion are universal languages.
Miranda Lambert proves once again that country music isn’t confined to dirt roads and honky-tonks—it can shine just as brightly on the world’s most prestigious stages. And with “Actin’ Up,” she invited the TIME100 audience to kick off their boots, let loose, and join her in a joyfully bold anthem for living life on your own terms.