The Judds

Chart-Topping Mother-Daughter Duo with Harmony and Heart

The Judds are one of country music’s most successful and beloved acts, known for their tight mother-daughter harmonies and heartfelt songs. The duo consists of Naomi Judd (b. 1946) and her daughter Wynonna Judd (b. 1964). With their mix of traditional country, acoustic blues, and pop hooks, The Judds ruled the country charts in the 1980s and ’90s.

Naomi was born in Kentucky and worked as a nurse before pursuing music. Wynonna was born in Tennessee and showed early talent singing with her mother at a young age. The two began performing together professionally in the early 1980s, signing their first record deal in 1983.

Their debut album Why Not Me was released in 1984 and spawned their first #1 hit “Mama He’s Crazy.” More chart-topping singles soon followed like “Girls Night Out,” “Love is Alive,” and “Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout the Good Old Days).” Between 1984-1991, The Judds won five Grammys and had 14 songs reach #1 on the country charts. Their success made them one of country’s top-selling and awarded acts.

The Judds’ music drew from Naomi’s love of classic country and blues, blended with Wynonna’s big, bluesy voice. Their lyrics often focused on family ties, rural life, and personal resilience. Throughout their career, they dazzled fans with their expressive harmonies, heartfelt songwriting, and dynamic live shows.

However, Naomi was diagnosed with Hepatitis C in the early 1990s, forcing her into retirement just as The Judds were reaching new heights of fame. Wynonna continued as a solo act and has enjoyed a successful career to this day. The Judds reunited for tours periodically despite Naomi’s illness.

In 2022, The Judds were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Sadly, Naomi passed away that same year just weeks after the induction ceremony. But the duo’s legacy lives on through their iconic songs, influence on later artists, and role in country music history as one of its most distinctive and decorated acts. Their story of family bonds, personal struggle, and musical success continues to inspire fans today.

Discography

Albums

  • Christmas Time With The Judds (1987)
  • Rockin' With the Rhythm (1985)
  • Give a Little Love (1987)
  • Heart Land (1987)
  • Love Can Build A Bridge: Songs Of Faith, Hope & Love (2016-04-29)
  • Love Can Build a Bridge (1990-09-11)
  • River of Time (1989)
  • Wynonna & Naomi (2004)
  • Why Not Me (1984)

Singles