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Loss of Naomi Judd

With the passing of Naomi Judd, Country music has lost an icon. Determination, grit, love, charm, hard working, entertainer — so many adjectives can be used to describe the woman from Kentucky who was determined to change her life and the life of her daughters for the better and along the way she became a Country Music Icon and now with her death, a legend. The mother-daughter duo known as The Judds began performing together professionally in the early ’80’s. Producing a string of hits including “Love Can Build A Bridge,” “Grandpa” and “Mama’s He’s Crazy,” Naomi and Wynonna sold more than 20 million records from 1981-1991 and along the way picked up 5 Grammys, countless other awards and honors and 14 # 1 songs. The duo came to an abrupt end when Naomi was diagnosed with Hepatitis C The Judds ended on a high note. Their farewell tour was the top grossing act, and their farewell concert the most successful musical event in cable pay-per-view history. Wynonna would go on to become a successful solo act and Naomi beat Hep C then battled depression which she often said began when she stopped touring. But a Judds Tour was in the works for 2022 and at 76, Naomi knew it would be her final tour. Sadly, her death was the day before The Judds were to be inaugurated into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Her daughters released a statement attributing Naomi’s death to mental illness — a battle with depression she did not win. But she did win the love of her fans around the world. She often would say:“My fans are my family of choice.” She loved them as much as they loved her. As we remember the life and legacy of Naomi Judd, and she did leave a legacy, perhaps her words say it best. “Try to be the best you can be and be all that you are.” Rest in peace, Naomi Judd.