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Wynonna Judd is set to return to her home state to perform the National Anthem at the Kentucky Derby, officials announced on Friday (April 12). Judd’s rendition will follow stunning performances by fellow Kentucky-born artist Carly Pearce, Brittney Spencer, Tori Kelly, Sugarland’s Jennifer Nettles and many others.
The Grammy Award-winning artist will play a role in kicking off the historic 150th Run for the Roses at Churchill Downs on Saturday, May 4, per a press release issued to announce Judd’s performance. Martha Stewart will serve as the Riders Up announcer. Judd will perform just after 5 p.m. ET. Viewers can watch live on NBC.
“I am so proud to represent my home state, taking part in one of the most storied and iconic traditions,” Judd said in a statment. “The Kentucky Derby is something I look forward to every year and being able to perform this year makes the momentous event even more special.”
Judd, 59, was born in Ashland, Kentucky. In her decades-long career in music, the powerhouse artist has released solo hits in addition to classics in the beloved mother-daughter duo The Judds with her late mother, Naomi Judd. Judd is known for “Why Not Me,” “Mama He’s Crazy,” “Love Can Build A Bridge,” “No One Else on Earth,” and many other unforgettable hits over the years.
“Wynonna Judd is a multigenerational talent who has helped shape country music over the years, and a Kentucky native, making her the perfect artist to set the stage for this once-in-a-lifetime Kentucky Derby,” Mike Anderson, President of Churchill Downs Racetrack, said in a statement of the Country Music Hall of Famer. “We’re excited for Wynonna to bring her powerful voice back to Louisville to convey the wide range of emotion for which this landmark occasion calls.”
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