Wynonna Judd opens up about her emotions on the upcoming tribute album dedicated to her late mother, Naomi Judd, reflecting on her grief, family, and the enduring presence of a musical icon.
In the wake of the Grammy-winning mother-daughter duo The Judds' tribute album release, Wynonna Judd has candidly shared her feelings about the project and her ongoing journey of grief.
Wynonna Judd Sings with Angels: Remembering Naomi's Legacy on Tribute Album
During a recent interview with Us Weekly, Judd revealed that the album's impending arrival serves as a poignant reminder of the generational divide in music. "There is a whole generation" who may not be familiar with The Judds' legacy, she remarked.
Onstage, Judd feels a profound connection to her mother's presence, searching for her in the ethereal realms above. "I’m like, ‘What the hell are you doing? Where are you and why are you not here? And why are we not singing together again?’” she exclaimed.
Wynonna Judd Sings with Angels: Remembering Naomi's Legacy on Tribute Album
Her closeness to Naomi extends beyond the stage, as she finds solace in the presence of her granddaughter, Kaliyah, who carries cherished photographs of her grandmother and mother. Judd shares the stories of Naomi and Grace Kelley, Kaliyah's mother, with the little one.
Reflecting on the two-year anniversary of Naomi's passing, Judd acknowledges that her grief is an ever-evolving experience. "I’m in a really good place," she asserts. "I’ve worked on forgiveness and my anger and frustration with suicide."
Wynonna Judd Sings with Angels: Remembering Naomi's Legacy on Tribute Album
Despite the challenges of the grieving process, Judd finds strength in allowing herself to feel her emotions fully. "It’s perfectly fine to cry. It’s important to embrace it and lean into it," she advises.
While family can provide support, Judd emphasizes the pivotal role of her faith in her healing journey. "Jesus is real to me. It’s a relationship, not a religion," she declares.
Wynonna Judd Sings with Angels: Remembering Naomi's Legacy on Tribute Album
The loss of Naomi has also brought Wynonna closer to her sister, Ashley Judd, who shares her steadfast faith. "Now that Mom’s gone, it feels like there’s more of a solidifying — and that grout between the stones is God," Wynonna observes.
Kaliyah, with her burgeoning musical abilities, is the latest addition to the Judd family's musical lineage. "We’ve started singing together," Wynonna proudly states.
Amidst the highs and lows of life, Wynonna finds true happiness in the simple moments with Kaliyah, recognizing that material wealth cannot equate to the joy of familial bonds. "Lying in the bed with her before bedtime and her putting her nose against mine and me singing to her, and she’s starting to sing back… [it’s] heaven on Earth," she declares.
As the tribute album serves as a testament to Naomi Judd's enduring legacy, Wynonna Judd continues to honor her mother's memory through her music, her faith, and the unwavering love that binds their family together.
