20240504 150th KENTUCKY DERBY
Wynonna Judd Sings the National Anthem pic.twitter.com/v43p5FnGLA— Robert Waloven (@comlabman) May 4, 2024
Getting the offer to perform at the Kentucky Derby, Wynonna knew she would say yes given her background. Recalling her own childhood and the importance of horse racing, the singer explained to People, “I grew up going to Keeneland. Standing on the backside as they come around and hearing the thunderous sound of the hooves hitting the dirt, I was just always overcome with emotion. I still think about it. I think to this day, besides having my children, it’s one of the greatest memories of my life. My sweet Papa was there every single year, and he took me.”
As for the nerves, Wynonna added, “I will be writing the words on my hand,” she admits with a laugh. “I’m nervous as heck because it is my home state, and these are my people. But yeah, I’m excited because I’ve never done it before.”
Before performing at the Kentucky Derby, Wynonna shared how important the venue was to her and her family. She recalled her childhood, explaining, “I grew up going to Keeneland. Standing on the backside as they come around and hearing the thunderous sound of the hooves hitting the dirt, I was just always overcome with emotion. I still think about it.” And wanting to make sure she remembered her moment at Churchhill Downs, she insisted, “I will be going in the morning for a soundcheck, and that will give me a chance to stand there and just bask in the glory of the moment.”
