Naomi Judd rose to fame singing alongside her eldest daughter, Wynonna, in the country music duo The Judds. The duo brought us many unforgettable songs, including “Love Can Build a Bridge,” “Grandpa,” and “Why Not Me.”
The Judds’ contributions to country music were recognized when they were named as inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame. But on April 30, just one day before their official induction ceremony, Naomi died at the age of 76.
Wynonna and her younger sister Ashley have honored their mother through various tributes on social media and in person. The eldest Judd daughter promised she would continue to sing. She also promised to continue the “Final” Judds tour she and Naomi had planned to embark on later this year.
People have seen Wynonna sing a few times since her mother’s death. She performed during Naomi’s public memorial service which was broadcast on CMT. Carly Pearce then brought Wynonna out on stage for a performance during CMA Fest in June.
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More recently, Wynonna joined her good friend Brandi Carlile for a performance in Nashville. They sang The Judds’ “Girls Night Out” and “Love Is Alive.”
Between the two songs, Wynonna took a moment to address the crowd. She shared some words of advice with them, saying:
“For those of you who don’t know who I am — you’d be surprised — I’m the artist formerly known as The Judds. Two months ago, my momma died and my sister is here tonight and we are now the new Judds … And I want to share something with you. I’m a Judd, not a judge, but I’m gonna tell you something. Forgiveness — call somebody and say ‘I’m sorry for my part, what can we do to heal?’ And that’s what we’re doing tonight.“
Wynonna’s emotional speech was filmed by Hunter Kelly, the host of PROUD Radio on Apple Music Country. You can watch the video below.
Our continued prayers go out to Wynonna, her sister Ashley, and all who loved Naomi. She is so dearly missed.