Emotional Tribute: Wynonna Judd's Heartfelt Acceptance Speech for Country Champion Award at 2023 People’s Choice Country Awards
Wynonna Judd beautifully honors her late mother, Naomi Judd, as she accepts the prestigious Country Champion Award at the 2023 People's Choice Country Awards A heartfelt tribute that captures the essence of their unbreakable bond
Wynonna Judd. Terry Wyatt/Getty Images
During her acceptance speech at the 2023 People's Choice Country Awards, Wynonna Judd paid a heartfelt tribute to her late mother, Naomi Judd. Sharing her journey, Wynonna expressed gratitude for the opportunity she had to accompany her mother on a journey that began in 1983 when she signed a record deal with RCA records. Over the course of 10 years, she dedicated herself to doing her mother's hair each night on their silver eagle bus, free of charge. Reflecting on the experience, Wynonna acknowledged that her career took off from there, leading her to make history in the world of country music.
Wynonna recounted the difficult moment when she tragically lost her mother to suicide in April 2022.
"I went to her house, and though she passed away there, we still followed the ambulance to the hospital where she was officially pronounced dead. As I entered the room, I cradled her in my arms, kissed her forehead, and tenderly closed her eyes while saying, 'I love you, Mom,'" she reminisced. "Leaving that room, I returned home, only to wake up the next morning and make my way to the Country Music Hall of Fame for my induction. You know why? Because my love for music transcends any hardships I face, and I always show up and give it my all, no matter what."
The singer reminisced about their past experiences of opening for each other on their individual tours. She shared, "In 1990, Tim McGraw opened for me, and just four weeks ago, I had the opportunity to open for Tim." Reflecting on the ups and downs of their careers, she advised, "The highs and lows can be intense, but always remember to never let others define your true identity."
Before embarking on a flourishing solo career, Wynonna kickstarted her journey in the realm of country music, courtesy of her mother. Together, they joined forces in 1983 and formed the dynamic duo known as The Judds. Over the course of seven years, from 1984 to 1990, this extraordinary mother-daughter pair recorded a total of six studio albums, cementing their place in the annals of music history. Even after the unfortunate demise of Naomi, they continued to captivate audiences with their mesmerizing performances.
Ron Wolfson/Getty Images
"Today, my sister Ashley Judd and I have experienced a devastating tragedy. Our beloved mother has succumbed to the debilitating effects of mental illness. Our hearts are broken, and we are navigating through deep grief. We find solace in knowing that the public loved her just as we did. This loss has taken us into uncharted territory."
"After four months since Naomi's passing, the autopsy report unveiled that she tragically took her own life with a gunshot wound. In September 2022, I shared how I have been coping with the loss of my mother, revealing that it has brought my sister and me closer together despite our past ups and downs."
Thank You!
"We share a mutual understanding, a glance exchanged between us as if to say, 'I've got your back.' It's a powerful moment of unity, stronger than we've felt in a while," expressed Wynonna as she spoke about her connection with Ashley, 55, in a segment on CBS Sunday Mornings following their mother's passing.You have successfully subscribed.
Subscribe to newsletters
Subscribe
By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy and to receive emails from USWeekly
Check our latest news in Google News
Follow Us
Check our latest news in Apple News
Follow Us
Wynonna, a highly acclaimed country music performer, has been honored as the first recipient at the latest country music awards show. This recognition was not only for her exceptional musical achievements but also for her philanthropic efforts with the Wounded Warrior Project and Habitat for Humanity. Additionally, Wynonna has been an advocate for raising awareness about mental health. Earlier this month, Senior Vice President of NBCUniversal Entertainment, Cassandra Tryon, expressed admiration for Wynonna's talent and highlighted her upcoming role as the host of NBC's country music holiday special, Christmas at the Opry, in December. Tryon further emphasized Wynonna's selflessness and dedication to spotlighting the needs of others, deeming her the perfect choice for the inaugural 'Country Champion' and a fitting person to celebrate the holiday season with during these prominent country music events.
