The death of legendary singer Naomi Judd was a loss that all country music fans felt. And just a day after her passing, she and her eldest daughter, Wynonna, were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
The honor, reserved for a select few artists, was awarded to The Judds, the mother-daughter duo who had an everlasting impact on country music. Wynonna, along with her younger sister, actress Ashley, took to the stage to celebrate their mother's legacy.
Wynonna smiled as she was given her well-deserved medal at the induction ceremony. The singer embraced her sister before Ashley gave a heartfelt speech. The 54-year-old started by saying, "My mama loved you so much and she appreciated your love for her and I'm sorry that she couldn't hang on until today."
She continued with, "And while this is so much about The Judds as a duo, I wanted to take a moment to recognize my sister, a G.O.A.T." Ashley even jokingly asked Wynonna if she knows what that means and her face was priceless. (Psst, for those who don't know, G.O.A.T. stands for "greatest of all time.")
Shortly after Ashley's speech, Wynonna took to the mic and began by joking, "I didn't prepare anything tonight because I knew that Mom would probably talk the most." While fighting back tears, she went on to admit, "I'm going to keep this fast because my heart's broken and I feel so blessed. And, it's a very strange dynamic to be this broken and this blessed."
After the ceremony, Naomi's youngest daughter shared this touching tribute with fans on Instagram where she thanks everyone for their support after the unexpected passing of her mother:
Countless people have rallied around Ashley and Wynonna with sweet messages like:
- "I love you. Holding you in the light and love."
- "There are no words that could offer you comfort. But I hope in this moment, you can feel held. Love to you and your family, Ashley. ❤️"
- "Ashley, I am so very sorry for this incredible loss. She was not our mother, but we cry with you. As so many of us were raised with her voice in our homes and lives. My deepest sincerest condolences 😢😢❤️"
If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.
Chaise Sanders is an Associate Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers anything from lifestyle and beauty to entertainment and style. Wanna upgrade your skincare game? She's got you covered with the best facial cleansing brushes. Or maybe you're in need of a new true crime show to binge? Got that covered too! Prior to joining the Cosmo team, Chaise was an editor at Country Living (also part of the Hearst fam) where she interviewed celebs like Dolly Parton, LeAnn Rimes and even Martha Stewart. Now, as one of the Big Apple's newest residents, there's a good chance that you can catch her checking out an Insta-worthy cafe or spending way to much $$$ in vintage stores.
